How to Detect Learning Disabilities in Toddlers?

A learning disorder is when someone has a problem with information-processing and learning a new skill. These disorders occur in individuals with average or above average intelligence and require the counselling of a pediatrician. Consequently, there is a gap between the expected skills in peers of the same age group.

Common learning disorders, cause disabilities in non-verbal skills, writing, reading, and mathematical skills. However, it does not necessarily mean there is a problem with intelligence or motivation. In fact, they are only wired differently and process information differently than others.

Signs of learning disorders:

Different children exhibit different signs if they have a learning disorder. Therefore, it is not always easy to identify learning disabilities. The following checklist can help you detect if your child has a learning disorder:

Preschool age:

• Problems pronouncing words
• Difficult in rhyming the words
• Difficulty finding the right word
• Difficult in following directions
• Trouble in learning new words, numbers and alphabets
• Difficulties in motor control like holding pencils and crayons

Ages 5-9:

• Slow in learning new skills
• Misspelling more often
• Trouble with basic mathematical concepts
• Difficulty in learning connections between sounds and letters
• Difficulty with buttoning, zipping or tying

It is important to remember that some or most of these may be present in children with no learning disabilities as well. And it is important to pay attention to the developmental milestones of your child and compare them with the age group of your child.

Evaluation of child:

Diagnosing the child with learning disabilities, especially when they are young, can be difficult. This is why their evaluation is controversial. Some believe that learning disabilities can’t be firmly diagnosed until a child is in third grade. However, you should keep an eye out for such signs because early intervention can make a big difference.

Treatment of learning disorders:

Special education is the most common treatment for learning disorders. A team of specialists can help create an individualized plan for your child that helps manage their disorders. Resources for such children include private schools, at home tutoring and therapy, after-school programs. Children with learning disabilities can be taught to overcome any challenge with the right tools. Thus learning disability should not be seen as an obstacle in their normal living.

Parenting can be difficult:

Raising a child with learning disability is not easy. It can be overwhelming, frustrating and anxiety-inducing at times. Such parents should remember that loving and supporting their child is the best thing they can do.

It is important to learn everything about the child’s condition and learning disability. Only then can you choose the best treatment option for your child. As a parent, you should play an active role in your child’s treatment and not leave them solely on the support team.

You should also work constructively with the team to provide maximum support to your child. Make sure your child has a fixed routine and has healthy habits. Plenty of sleep, a balanced diet and exercise are necessary for your child.

If you think that your child may have a learning disability, then get your child evaluated by a competent pediatrician. You can book an appointment with top pediatrician in Lahore, Rawalpindi and Islamabad through oladoc.com, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT professional for your concerns.