Early Signs of Learning Challenges [childmind.org]

It can be hard to tell if a preschool-age child is likely to have a learning disability. When kids are young, they develop skills at different speeds, and kids have different strengths and weaknesses. As they get older their abilities usually even out.

But there are some signs in preschool and early school that a child may be diagnosed with a learning disorder later on. For example, children who struggle to pick up rhyming may later have difficulty with reading. Likewise, kids who have trouble grasping the basics of counting may have trouble with math.

Children who have trouble holding a crayon or using a fork may have issues with what is called fine motor control. Trouble understanding or using language can be a sign of a language-based learning disorder. Speech and language issues can also be an early sign of autism.

Kids’ behavior can offer clues. If a child often gets frustrated during an activity, like drawing, it might mean those skills are a challenge for them. And if kids are more active, more impulsive, or more distracted than most of their peers, they could be signs of ADHD, which is usually not diagnosed until kids are older. ThoughADHD is considered a behavioral disorder, it has a big impact on how kids learn, and many children with ADHD have learning disorders as well.

Some of these kids can benefit from early intervention. For instance, children with fine motor issues may be helped by an occupational therapist (OT). OTs can work with kids to improve their grasp, muscle tone, and hand-eye coordination. If you suspect your child is having speech or language issues, make an appointment with their healthcare provider. You may be referred to a speech-language pathologist (SLP) who will help them work on communication.

If you notice your child is struggling you can help by supporting their self-esteem. And you can work with them to build skills outside the classroom. Activities like reading, counting, or drawing together can help kids practice skills in a low-stress environment.

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