What are learning disorders and disabilities?

Also known as: language-based disabilities

Learning disabilities and learning disorders are brain based processing difficulties which interfere with learning skills like reading, writing and/or doing mathematics. They may also cause problems with memory, attention, time planning and organization.

Learning disabilities is a broad term which also describes a number of more specific learning disabilities like dyslexia. Children with learning disorders usually have normal intellectual ability.

Learning disabilities are different to “learning problems” which are usually due to visual, hearing and/or motor handicaps.

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Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: 1/29/2019 3:21:13 PM