What is a learning disability?

There may be a number of reasons why your child is struggling in school. But if your child struggles consistently no matter how hard he or she studies, he or she may have a learning disability.

The term “learning disability” is used when an individual has problems acquiring basic academic skills. LD is not a single disorder—it is a term that refers to a group of disorders. (In technical terms, a learning disability (LD) is defined as a neurological disorder that affects the brain's ability to receive, process, store and respond to information.)

Kids with learning disabilities are often just as intelligent as their peers. Their brains just process information differently, so they need to be taught in ways that are best adapted to how they learn.

How can you use this site to help?

By learning more about different kinds of learning disabilities and their symptoms, you can:

• Determine whether your child may have a learning disability.
• Figure out how to find help for your child.

Signs of learning disabilities

Do you think your child may have a learning disability? Learn to recognize the signs of a potential learning disability. 

Types of learning disabilities

There are many different types of learning disabilities, and each has different signs and symptoms. Use this chart to compare the different types of learning disabilities in order to figure out if an LD may be affecting your child.

Take action at school: Beginning the process

If you have observed several signs of a learning disability in your child, it's time to talk with his or her teacher about what steps to take to help your child succeed in school.

*Information provided by the National Center for Learning Disabilities in partnership with the Student Success Collaborative.