Breaking Down Learning Disabilities in the Classroom and Beyond

The term “learning disability” is widely used, but often misunderstood. To better explain what learning disabilities are and how families and schools can provide support, we spoke with Keri Wright, a counselor at Centerstone.

What is a learning disability?

KW: A learning disability is a lifelong, neurological disorder that affects how a person receives, processes, stores, and communicates information. It is not related to intelligence, it simply means a person learns differently.

What are the most common learning disabilities?

KW: Common learning disabilities include dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, auditory processing disorder, visual and motor processing disorder, and nonverbal learning disability. These conditions can affect reading, writing, math, communication and the way a person interprets information.

• Dyslexia: makes it difficult to read, spell, and write.
• Dysgraphia: impairs writing abilities.
• Dyscalculia: impairs a person’s abilities to understand and process mathematical concepts.
• Auditory Processing Disorder: when the brain has difficulty interpreting sound-based information.
• Visual and Motor Processing Disorder: a dysfunction in how the brain interprets and uses visual information. This is not related to vision problems or eyesight.
• Nonverbal Learning Disability: difficulty interpreting nonverbal cues like facial expressions or body language.

Are most learning disabilities easy to diagnose?

KW: Many signs become more noticeable as academic demands increase, often around fourth grade, when learning shifts from memorizing information to understanding and applying it. Teachers and school counselors are often among the first to recognize potential concerns and can help guide families toward evaluation.

How are learning disabilities treated?

KW: Support depends on the individual and the specific disability. Interventions may include reading support for dyslexia, writing tools for dysgraphia, math strategies for dyscalculia, or accommodations that help students process auditory or visual information more effectively.

How can parents, teachers, and school staff to work together?

KW: The first step is understanding what is contributing to a child’s challenges and whether multiple factors may be involved. Once needs are identified, families and educators can work together to create individualized supports, accommodations and strategies that help students succeed.

Can students with learning disabilities thrive in traditional classrooms?

KW: Yes. Many students can succeed in a traditional classroom when they have the right support and accommodations in place.

Anything else to add?

KW: Learning disabilities also have a social and emotional side that is often overlooked. People with learning disabilities are highly capable and often bring unique perspectives and problem-solving skills. Families should also be aware of resources such as 504 plans and Individualized Education Programs, which provide legal protections and educational support for students with disabilities.

Learning disabilities can look different for every person, but the right support can make a meaningful difference. If you or your child may be struggling, reaching out early can help you better understand what’s going on and what resources are available. Centerstone can provide guidance and evaluation support to help individuals and families take the next step forward.