Learning Problems

Learning Problems

Some individuals have persistent difficulty learning and using their keystone academic skills. These difficulties are neurodevelopmental, meaning they begin during childhood. Key academic skills include reading of single words accurately and fluently, reading comprehension, written expression and spelling, as well as math calculation and reasoning (solving math problems). These difficulties do not arise because of lack of opportunity, motivation, or inadequate instruction. Often, difficulties mastering these key academic skills impedes learning in other academic subjects as well.

Learning problems are diagnosed in approximately 5-15% of school-aged children and 4% of adults. They typically are first diagnosed during the elementary school years when academic demands become higher. They are more commonly diagnosed in males than females. Risk factors include: a genetic predisposition, prematurity or low birth weight, or prenatal exposures to toxins such as nicotine or lead.