Learning differences are common.
They impact skills like reading, math, writing, and focus.
The challenges are lifelong, but people can still thrive.
Learn more about some common Learning and Thinking Differences.
Dyslexia is a learning disability in reading. People with dyslexia have trouble reading at a good pace and without mistakes. They may also have a hard time with reading comprehension, spelling, and writing. But these challenges aren’t a problem with intelligence.
Dysgraphia is a term that refers to trouble with writing. Many experts view dysgraphia as challenges with a set of skills known as transcription. These skills — handwriting, typing, and spelling — allow us to produce writing.
Written expression disorder is a learning disability in writing. People who have it struggle to put their ideas into writing. They also make frequent mistakes in grammar and punctuation.
Dyscalculia is a learning disability in math. People with dyscalculia have trouble with math at many levels. They often struggle with key concepts like bigger vs. smaller. And they can have a hard time doing basic math problems and more abstract math.
There are three main types of language disorder:
Expressive language disorder: People have trouble getting their message across when they talk. They often struggle to put words together into sentences that make sense.
Receptive language disorder: People struggle to get the meaning of what others are saying. Because of this, they often respond in ways that don’t make sense.
Mixed receptive-expressive language issues: People struggle with both using and understanding language.
Sensory processing issues are difficulties with organizing and responding to information that comes in through the senses. Kids may be oversensitive to sensory input, undersensitive, or both.
ADHD is a common condition that makes it hard to focus, keep still, and think before acting. Some people with ADHD mainly have trouble with focus. (This is also known as ADD.) ADHD can also impact other skills, including managing emotions.