It’s common for kids to struggle with a subject area in school. This falls well within the domain of the education system. In most cases, a little extra help is all the student needs. However, what is a learning disability, and how can your teen overcome this?
Some kids struggle with every subject despite everyone’s best efforts. When that happens, teachers might suggest that there’s a learning disability involved. Venture Academy can help your teen manage their learning disability and succeed academically. Call 866.762.2211 today to get help for your struggling teen.
What Is a Learning Disability?
The term learning disorder is a bit of a misnomer. In addition, most kids can learn just fine. The problem is that some kids’ brains don’t process information the same way. Therefore, that processing difference makes it very difficult for them to learn in a traditional school setting.
Common Learning Disabilities
Several common learning disabilities require therapeutic support. A few of the more common learning disorders include:
- Dyslexia
- Dysgraphia
- Dyscalculia
- Auditory processing disorder
- Non-verbal learning disabilities
Some disorders affect learning without falling into the category of learning disabilities. ADHD and dyspraxia can both make learning difficult and often co-occur with learning disabilities.
Spotting a Learning Disorder
It’s important that you know how to spot signs of a learning disability because the earlier the intervention, the better the outcome is likely to be. For example, a few common signs include:
- Excessive trouble reading
- Trouble performing basic math
- Difficulty understanding the spoken word
- Memorization problems
- Inability to concentrate
However, these signs don’t necessarily mean your child has a learning disability. You should take those signs as a signal to investigate. Moreover, specialists can perform a wide range of tests that will identify learning disabilities.
Managing Learning Disabilities
Different learning disabilities require different management approaches. You can teach coping strategies for a learning disability like dyslexia or dyscalculia. Furthermore, at-home exercises and online programs often facilitate the treatment process. As a rule, kids can stay in the traditional classroom with the right support.
In cases of auditory processing disorder, for example, skills training can help some kids. Some kids will need a different learning environment. The condition can make it very difficult for someone to understand the spoken word, even in a quiet setting. If skills training doesn’t help, the traditional classroom won’t work.
The Benefits of Intervention and Support for Learning Disabilities
Intervention and support for learning disabilities are essential in ensuring that students with special needs can reach their full potential. Early intervention is key, as it helps minimize the academic, social, and emotional impact of a learning disability. By addressing the individual needs of each student, appropriate interventions and support services can be tailored to help them progress in their education.
The benefits of receiving the proper support for a learning disability include:
- Promotes independent learning
- Gain skills, confidence, and self-awareness
- Learn to manage the disability
- Build effective communication skills
- Learn to manage emotions
- Develop critical thinking skills
- Promotes better interpersonal relationships
- Learn problem-solving skills
- Recognise strengths
- Build a positive self-image
Interventions for learning disabilities should be individualised to the student’s specific needs. This may include using assistive technology or providing extra time on tests and assignments; teaching organizational, study, and problem-solving skills; or connecting the student with social services. In addition, interventions may involve supporting a student’s physical needs, such as having access to appropriate classroom seating or adaptive equipment. Ultimately, the goal of intervention is to foster an environment in which students can reach their full potential and thrive academically.
Discover Learning Disorder Treatment at Venture Academy
Venture Academy specialises in helping struggling youth with academic problems. We provide a comprehensive assessment for learning disabilities. Afterward, we provide a plan for getting your child back on track. We’re open to families from across Canada. Moreover, we offer services such as:
- Family therapy
- Psychotherapy
- Cognitive-behavioural therapy
- Dialectical behaviour therapy
A learning disability doesn’t need to ruin your child’s life. With proper assistance, Venture Academy can help get your child back on track academically. To find out if we’re right for your teen, call us today at 866.762.2211 or fill out our online contact form.
