Understanding Learning Difficulties – A Guide for Parents


Hi there,

I hope you're doing well!

I wanted to reach out and talk a bit about learning difficulties. It’s a topic that can feel overwhelming, but understanding it can make a huge difference in supporting your child’s journey.

So, what exactly are learning difficulties?
Learning difficulties are challenges some children face with specific skills like reading, writing, math, or organization. They don’t reflect a child’s intelligence but rather the way their brain processes information. Knowing about these difficulties can help us respond to their needs with empathy and effective strategies.

Here’s a quick look at some of the most common types:

  1. Dyslexia: This is a reading difficulty that can make it hard for children to decode words, understand phonics, or follow along in a text-heavy environment.
  2. Dyscalculia: This one’s all about numbers. Children with dyscalculia might struggle with basic math concepts, sequencing, or even recognizing patterns.
  3. Dysgraphia: If writing is tough for your child, they may have dysgraphia, which can affect handwriting, spelling, and organizing their thoughts on paper.
  4. ADHD: While not a learning difficulty itself, ADHD often goes hand-in-hand with them. Children with ADHD might find it hard to focus, stay organized, or sit still – all of which affect learning.
  5. Processing Disorders: These can impact how a child processes what they hear or see, making it hard for them to follow instructions or keep up in class.

Knowing a bit about these challenges can be the first step toward understanding what your child might be experiencing. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are loads of resources, strategies, and support systems out there to help!

Thanks for reading, and feel free to reach out with any questions or topics you’d like to see covered in our next email!

Biruni Academy

Weekly emails to help parents and school staff understand a childs learning barriers and what you can do to support them in the classroom or at home.

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