LEARNING DISABILITY A HIDDEN DISABILITY

Yes, indeed. Learning disabilities are often referred to as "hidden disabilities" because they are not always immediately apparent. Unlike physical disabilities, which may be more visible, learning disabilities affect how a person processes information and learns, which may not be obvious in outward appearance.

People with learning disabilities may appear to be just like everyone else, but they may struggle with tasks that others find easy. For example, someone with dyslexia might have difficulty reading and spelling despite having normal intelligence and good oral language skills. Similarly, someone with dyscalculia might struggle with math concepts even though they are capable in other areas.

Because learning disabilities are not always obvious, they can sometimes be overlooked or misunderstood. This can lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and difficulties in academic and social settings.

 It's important to raise awareness about learning disabilities and provide support and accommodations to help individuals with these challenges succeed. Emphasise that making mistakes is part of the learning process and that everyone can improve with practice.

Management of learning Disability

Managing a learning disability involves a combination of strategies tailored to the individual's needs and strengths. Here are some general approaches that can be helpful:

Early identification and assessment.
Individualised Education Plans (IEP)
Special Education Classes
Self Advocacy
Accommodations & Modifications
Strength-Based Learning
Supportive Environment
Encourage Lifelong Learning
Collaboration and open communication.

Every individual with a learning disability is unique, so it's essential to tailor interventions and support strategies to their specific strengths, challenges, and goals.

Multisensory Practice

1) Engage students in multisensory activities to reinforce letter recognition and discrimination.
2) Use manipulatives or tactile materials to create hands-on activities where students can trace, build, or arrange the letters.
3) Incorporate auditory elements by having students verbally identify the letters and their sounds.
4) Provide opportunities for kinesthetic learning through activities like air writing or using body movements to represent each letter.

In learning disability, educators must emphasize on

Reading Text

"Reading Text" typically refers to the process of reading written content, ie. content in printed form. In reading text letters are separately printed, which makes reading a simplified and clear process.

Writing Text

“Writing Text” typically refers to the process of writing content. For a learning disabled writing in cursive can help them to write in a flow ie. without a break. As in cursive writing, there are always loops to link to the next letter which gives them clues to connect to the next letter without breaking.

Arial Text

Asking them to write in the air or letting them guess what the educator is writing in the air also clears their misconceptions or confusion regarding letters or words.

Similarly writing on their hands or skin also clears their confusion and fixes strokes in the back of their minds.

Remember, you're awesome just the way you are, and having a learning disability doesn't change that. Keep being you, keep trying your best, and never be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Having a learning disability doesn't mean you're not smart. It just means you might need to try things differently, and that's okay!

Deepa Saxena
Special Educator