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What are learning disabilities?
What are learning disabilities?
A learning disability means a person’s brain works differently in a way that makes learning certain skills harder. This could include reading, writing, math, or understanding information. It does not mean the person isn’t smart, lazy, or isn't trying. The difference is in how they learn. These differences are present from birth, although signs may not appear until later in a child’s development.
According to the Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario (LDAO), "most statistical evidence from demographic sources" suggests that 4 to 6% of the population has a learning disability.
Learning disabilities are not caused by intellectual disabilities, hearing or vision problems, emotional disorders, cultural or language differences, or socio-economic disadvantage, though these factors can exist alongside an LD. They can also co-occur with other conditions such as ADHD or anxiety.
How are learning disabilities defined?
How are learning disabilities defined?
There are different frameworks that can be used to define or diagnose learning disabilities.
1️⃣ LDAO (Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario) Definition
1️⃣ LDAO (Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario) Definition
The most common model used in Ontario’s education system, and the one generally used at the TDSB, comes from the LDAO. The LDAO defines learning disabilities as brain-based differences in the way information is received, processed, stored, or communicated. Children with learning disabilities typically have average or above-average intelligence, but experience difficulties in specific processing areas such as:
speaking or understanding language
organization
planning
memory
attention
processing speed
These processing difficulties impact achievement in reading, writing, spelling, and mathematics and can also affect social and emotional well-being.
The LDAO definition is recognized by Ontario’s Ministry of Education and used in IPRC decisions in schools.
2️⃣ DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition)
2️⃣ DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition)
Another framework to diagnose a learning disability comes from the DSM-5-TR. The DSM-5-TR is a manual used by psychologists, psychological associates, doctors, and other mental health professionals to make mental health and neurodevelopmental diagnoses. The DSM-5-TR uses the term Specific Learning Disorder for a learning disability. A child must show ongoing difficulty, with skills that are well below what’s expected for their age, in reading, writing, or math for 6+ months despite extra help. Specifiers can be added to the diagnosis of Specific Learning Disorder to show which skill area is affected.
These include:
SLD with Impairment in Reading
Often called dyslexia
Involves trouble with recognizing words quickly and accurately, understanding what is read, or sounding out words
It may cause reading to be slow, effortful, or inaccurate
Can make learning in all subjects harder
SLD with Impairment in Written Expression
Often called dysgraphia
Involves poor spelling, trouble with grammar and punctuation, or weak sentence or paragraph structure
Writing may be slow, disorganized, or have many errors
Can make it hard to show knowledge in written assignments
SLD with Impairment in Mathematics
Often called dyscalculia
Involves trouble with understanding numbers and how they work, memorizing basic math facts, accurate and fluent calculation, problem-solving that uses math
May also affect understanding of time, measurement, or money
A person can have one type or a combination.
3️⃣ Other Relevant Guidelines
Ontario Psychological Association (OPA) Practice Guidelines provide best practices for Ontario psychologists and psychological associates when assessing and diagnosing LDs. It is recommended to integrate the LDAO definition with DSM-5 criteria for a full picture. Guidelines emphasize using multiple sources of data: standardized tests, history, observations, and response to intervention.
Ontario Psychological Association (OPA) Practice Guidelines provide best practices for Ontario psychologists and psychological associates when assessing and diagnosing LDs. It is recommended to integrate the LDAO definition with DSM-5 criteria for a full picture. Guidelines emphasize using multiple sources of data: standardized tests, history, observations, and response to intervention.
International Definitions
International Definitions
The ICD-11 (World Health Organization) uses Developmental Learning Disorder with subtypes in reading, writing, and math, similar to DSM-5 but more globally recognized. This is not commonly referenced in Ontario schools, but sometimes in other settings.
How can you help?
How can you help?
Everyone has a unique way of learning. Talking openly and positively about learning differences helps children understand themselves and others. It promotes acceptance and encourages kids to celebrate what makes them unique. Use information from this article to help have this conversation: How to Talk To Your Child About Their Learning Differences.
Connecting learning to a child’s interests and highlighting role models with similar challenges can boost motivation. Hearing stories of people who succeeded in spite of learning differences helps children see what’s possible. Success Stories From Both Famous & Everyday People.
Understanding what your child is expected to learn, like the expectations in the Ontario Curriculum and how Reading, Writing, and Math skills develop, can help you better support them. Look for opportunities to practice skills through real world experiences. Everyday activities like cooking, reading signs, and playing games offer great learning opportunities. These real-life moments can teach math, reading, problem-solving, and more in fun and meaningful ways.
Learning through games and online platforms like PBS Kids or TVO Mathify (free on-line math tutoring for students Grade 4+) can make education more engaging. Here are some other ideas for learning through games:
Success isn’t only about academics. Traits like kindness, empathy, curiousity, and determination are just as important. Helping children build these qualities prepares them for success in school and life. Learn more here: traits that promote success.
Focusing on effort rather than just outcomes encourages a growth mindset. Praising hard work, persistence, and progress helps children stay motivated and see challenges as opportunities to learn. Talk to your child about neuroplasticity (ability of the brain to change and grow) and growth mindset and find out what parents can do to help their child take on new challenges.
Kids with learning differences may need extra support with social skills. Teaching how to share, take turns, and read social cues helps them feel more confident in group settings and friendships. Find out more about coaching your child to develop their social skills.
Find out more about Learning Disabilities:
Watch:
Listen:
Read/Learn:
Resources
Resources
LD Information Guide
An accessible text-only version of this document can be found here:
References:
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.). American Psychiatric Publishing.
Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario. (2025, April). Learning disabilities statistics. Retrieved August 14, 2025, from https://www.ldao.ca/faq-items/learning-disabilities-statistics/
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