{"id":156850,"date":"2020-05-21T14:57:54","date_gmt":"2020-05-21T09:27:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dev.developmentlogics.org\/article\/signs-symptoms-specific-learning-disabilities-whom-approach-confirmation-diagnosis"},"modified":"2026-04-21T09:49:44","modified_gmt":"2026-04-21T04:19:44","slug":"signs-symptoms-specific-learning-disabilities-whom-approach-confirmation-diagnosis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/article\/diagnosis-early-intervention\/signs-symptoms-specific-learning-disabilities-whom-approach-confirmation-diagnosis\/","title":{"rendered":"Signs &#038; symptoms of Specific Learning Disabilities &#8211; Whom to approach for confirmation of diagnosis?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children grow, learn, and express themselves in wonderfully unique ways. Some are early readers; others express themselves better through art or storytelling. But when a child consistently struggles to read, write, spell, or understand certain concepts, even with adequate support, it could be a sign of a Specific Learning Disability (SLD).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SLDs are not a sign of low intelligence or poor parenting. They are lifelong, brain-based differences in how a person receives, processes, and expresses information. Early recognition and the right support can make a world of difference to how a child feels about learning and about themselves.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This video, with inputs from <\/span><b>Remedial Education Specialist Ms. Farida Raj<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, outlines early signs families and educators might notice, the role of professionals, and when to seek support.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What is a Specific Learning Disability (SLD)?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An SLD refers to concerns in one or more areas of learning, such as reading (dyslexia), writing (dysgraphia), or mathematics (dyscalculia), even though the child may have average or above-average intelligence. Children with SLDs may also face difficulties in motor skills, memory, or attention, which can affect how they engage with schoolwork.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Early signs in pre-primary to primary peers<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before formal academics begin, SLDs may show up as motor coordination or memory concerns. While many young children display these behaviors occasionally, repeated patterns may signal a need for closer observation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some signs to watch for include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wearing shoes on the wrong foot, even after repeated corrections<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Difficulty buttoning a shirt or zipping up a jacket<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Struggling to hold or use a pencil, fork, or crayon<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bumping into furniture, spilling things often, seeming \u201cclumsy\u201d<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Forgetting two-step instructions like \u201cpick up your toy and put it on the shelf\u201d<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoiding drawing, scribbling, or name-writing activities<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trouble recalling letters, numbers, days of the week, or rhymes, even with repetition<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Difficulty remembering sequences\u00a0 like the order of dressing, brushing teeth, or steps in a story<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Preference for verbal storytelling or imaginary play, but less interest in reading or writing tasks<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These signs do not mean the child is lazy or inattentive. They simply show that their brain may process information differently and may need different methods of learning and expression.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Signs in primary to high school years<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As academic demands increase, SLDs may become more noticeable. Children may begin to feel frustrated, anxious, or withdrawn, especially if their efforts don\u2019t seem to match the results.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signs to look out for:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequently interchanging similar-looking letters (like b\/d, p\/q, n\/u)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starting sentences with lowercase letters; inconsistent use of punctuation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Writing that switches randomly between uppercase and lowercase letters<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trouble copying from the board or writing down verbal instructions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slower reading speed, skipping words or lines while reading aloud<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding content well when explained verbally, but struggling to write it down<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Better verbal expression, using gestures, facial expressions, or drawings to explain ideas<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Difficulty managing time, organising school work, or remembering what to bring<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These students often think deeply and feel deeply. They may excel in oral discussions, creativity, or problem-solving, yet struggle with written expression or rote tasks.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What to do if you notice these signs<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every child is unique, and not all signs indicate a learning disability. But if several of these signs show up regularly, especially across settings (home, school, tuition), it may be helpful to speak to a professional.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Please do not attempt to self-diagnose. Instead, reach out to a trained expert who can assess the child\u2019s learning profile and needs in a safe, respectful, and evidence-based manner.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Professionals who can help:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Clinical psychologist<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Can assess for SLD using standardised tools and offer guidance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Qualified special educator<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Trained in identifying and supporting different learning needs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Dyslexia therapist<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Specialises in reading-related learning concerns<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Remedial educator<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Designs and implements personalised teaching strategies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Occupational therapist<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (if motor or coordination issues are present)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Assessment not only identifies the child\u2019s concerns but also highlights their strengths, preferred learning style, and areas where tailored support can be most effective.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Why early support matters<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SLDs do not go away on their own, but with timely support, children can learn to work around their concerns and build self-esteem.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Early intervention helps a child:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Build foundational reading, writing, or numeracy skills in a way that works for them<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid unnecessary labels like \u201clazy\u201d or \u201cnaughty\u201d<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Receive accommodations at school (like extra time, oral exams, or reading support)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discover their own learning preferences and self-advocacy skills<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Build a system that supports their mental health by reducing shame, frustration, or fear of failure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children with SLDs can and do go on to lead fulfilling, successful lives, especially when they feel understood and supported.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Need support?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Call or WhatsApp our <\/span><b>FREE Helpline<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: <\/span><b>844-844-8996<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our counselors speak English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We can guide you to the right professionals and resources &#8211;\u00a0 no judgment, just support.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also, watch this <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nayi-disha.org\/article\/what-are-some-known-causes-specific-learning-disabilities\/\"><b>\u0935\u0940\u0921\u093f\u092f\u094b<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> on common risk factors for Specific Learning Disabilities to better understand what to look out for.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>\u0905\u0938\u094d\u0935\u0940\u0915\u0930\u0923<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This information resource is for <\/span><b>educational purposes only<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. For any concerns about your child\u2019s learning, please consult a qualified health practitioner for proper guidance. <\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Signs &amp; symptoms of Specific Learning Disabilities &#8211; Whom to approach for confirmation of diagnosis?<\/p>","protected":false},"author":26462,"featured_media":156851,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"video","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3219],"tags":[2425],"conditions":[2695,2704],"age_group":[2739,2737],"article_group":[2766],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/156850"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/26462"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=156850"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/156850\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":300010,"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/156850\/revisions\/300010"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/156851"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=156850"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=156850"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=156850"},{"taxonomy":"conditions","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/conditions?post=156850"},{"taxonomy":"age_group","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/age_group?post=156850"},{"taxonomy":"article_group","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/newtest.nayi-disha.org\/hi\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/article_group?post=156850"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}