What Is Learning Disorders In Children And Teenagers?
Learning disorders in children and teens are a diverse range of conditions. They are frequently caused by abnormalities in the early development of the child. Social, environmental and family circumstances are also common contributing factors.
A detailed assessment to diagnose learning disorders in children and teens is important when they display some of the symptoms explained below:
- Delay in key developmental milestones (such as delay in speech and walking)
- Odd social skills or behaviours ( poor eye contact, lack of emotional interaction or repetitive behaviours)
- Those with hyperactivity and disturbing behaviours
- Poor academic performance or trouble with reading or writing
Common conditions associated with learning disorders in children and teens are dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD). Others include intellectual disability and those that fall within the Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Older kids and teenagers may have trouble with regulation of moods and present with violent outbursts of emotions or “act out”. They may also have disciplinary problems at school and worsening academic performance. These may represent problems within the home, school or within their social circle.Left unchecked it can lead to a variety of psychological disorders.
Prompt intervention is essential to prevent undesirable outcomes. Therapy helps these kids to properly deal with their challenges and maintain good educational outcomes.
What Should You Be Looking Out For In Your Child
- Important developmental milestones such as walking or language skills that are delayed or not in keeping with their age
- Reading, writing or mathematical ability that is behind that of other kids their age
- Inability to maintain eye contact with others, low interest in wanting to be sociable or having rigid or repetitive behaviours
- The child may not grow or mature like other kids of their age and behave in ways suggestive of a younger stage of development
- Display signs of hyperactivity or inability to sustain attention in class
