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Parents or caregivers may notice academic problems or other signs of a learning disability in their child and not know where to start. Often this “invisible disability” does not become obvious until a child reaches school age. Even then, difficulties may be subtle and hard to recognize.

Here you will find a wealth of information on understanding learning disabilities, negotiating the special education process, and helping your child and yourself.

Featured Articles & Resources

Specific Learning Disabilities

  • Dyscalculia
    A specific learning disability that affects a person’s ability to understand numbers and learn math facts.
  • Dysgraphia
    A specific learning disability that affects a person’s handwriting ability and fine motor skills.
  • Dyslexia
    A specific learning disability that affects reading and related language-based processing skills.
  • Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities
    Has trouble interpreting nonverbal cues like facial expressions or body language and may have poor coordination.
  • Oral / Written Language Disorder and Specific Reading Comprehension Deficit
    Learning disabilities that affect an individual’s understanding of what they read or of spoken language. The ability to express one’s self with oral language may also be impacted.

Related Disorders

  • ADHD
    A disorder that includes difficulty staying focused and paying attention, controlling behavior and hyperactivity.
  • Young child playing in children's ball pit.
    Dyspraxia
    A disorder which causes problems with movement and coordination, language and speech.
  • Executive Functioning
    Affects, planning, organization, strategizing, attention to details and managing time and space.

Support for Parents

  • ADD/ADHD

    ADHD often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. It may contribute to low self-esteem, troubled relationships, and difficulty at school or work.
    Symptoms include limited attention and hyperactivity.

  • Adults with Learning Disabilities

    Workplace, college, and other important information for adults with LD.

  • Assessment & Evaluation

    Evaluation involves gathering information from a variety of sources about a child’s functioning and development in all areas. It is generally one of the first steps in determining if a child has a learning disability. This section will help parents answer their questions on assessment and evaluation.

  • Assistive Technology (AT)

    There are specific tech tools that can help people who learn and think differently. A few examples of assistive technology include text-to-speech and word prediction.

  • Beyond the Classroom

    Information on how toxic chemicals can affect the brain, and other relevant information for children and adults with LD outside of the classroom.

  • College

    Accommodations, testing, and other important information for college students with LD.

  • Core Principles

    Learn about the core principles of learning disabilities that LDA uses as the basis to address policy and practice in the field of LD.

  • Early Childhood

    Early Intervention is important for long-term success for individuals with learning disabilities (LD) and/or ADHD. Early identification includes the evaluation and treatment provided to families and their children under 3 years old who have, or are at risk for having, a disability or delay in speech, language, or hearing. A child can quickly fall behind if speech and language learning is delayed. Early identification increases the chances for improving communication skills. Once disorders are diagnosed professionals can help to remediate and accommodate for success at home and in the classroom.

  • Homework Handouts for Parents
  • LD/ADHD Basics

    Learning Disabilities (LD) and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD) affects millions of children and adults in school and in everyday life. It is a life-long condition. Fortunately, with the right understanding, support, and appropriate interventions, individuals with learning disabilities can become successful students and adults. Learning the basics about LD and ADHD is an important start to getting help. After the signs and symptoms of LD are recognized, the appropriate assessment and evaluation will be needed to determine the right strategies to help the individual.

  • Mental Health
  • News

    Read about current LDA actions and LD issues in the news.

  • News Releases

    LDA’s press releases on issues affecting individuals with learning disabilities and their families.

  • Parent Page

    Shows on the front page of our parent page

  • Possible Legal Issues

    The American with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) protects adults with disabilities including learning disabilities (LD) in higher education programs and employment. This section contains an overview of how these laws and others can protect the civil rights of adults with LD.

  • Post Secondary Options
  • Pre-K thru High School
  • Professional Resources
  • Special Education Services
  • Teaching Reading
  • The LDA Podcast
  • Workplace Issues

    Guidance for employers and prospective employees with LD.

  • Your Voice in Washington

Guides & Booklets