Every child has their own learning style. While many learn reading, writing, and comprehension with ease, some face persistent challenges that are not due to lack of effort, motivation, or intelligence. These are called Specific Learning Difficulties (SLDs) — lifelong conditions that affect how the brain processes information.
Recognizing these challenges early helps parents and teachers provide targeted support, build confidence, and ensure no child is left behind.
1. Dyslexia – Difficulty with Reading and Spelling
Dyslexia is one of the most common SLDs. Children may:
Struggle to connect letters to their sounds.
Read slowly or inaccurately.
Mix up letters (b/d, p/q) or words (“was” and “saw”).
Have trouble spelling even familiar words.
Support Strategies:
Phonics-based instruction.
Multi-sensory learning (using sight, sound, and touch).
Extra reading time without pressure.
Encouraging reading of topics they love to boost motivation.
2. Dysgraphia – Difficulty with Writing
Dysgraphia affects handwriting, spelling, and putting thoughts into words. Signs include:
Poor or inconsistent letter formation.
Difficulty spacing words or keeping writing on the line.
Struggling to organize ideas in sentences or paragraphs.
Support Strategies:
Allowing the use of a keyboard for written work.
Breaking writing tasks into small steps.
Using graphic organizers or mind maps.
Providing models or sentence starters.
3. Dysorthographia – Specific Spelling Disorder
This difficulty focuses on spelling and is often linked with dyslexia. Children may:
Make frequent spelling errors in both familiar and unfamiliar words.
Have trouble remembering correct spellings even after correction.
Support Strategies:
Visual memory exercises (word-picture associations).
Repeated exposure to new words in different contexts.
Using word banks and personal dictionaries.
4. Hyperlexia – Early Reading, Low Comprehension
Children with hyperlexia can read far above their age level but may not understand what they read. Signs include:
Advanced decoding skills at a young age.
Struggling to answer questions about the text.
Difficulty with social communication.
Support Strategies:
Discussing stories and asking comprehension questions.
Relating reading content to real-life examples.
Encouraging storytelling and role-play to build understanding.
5. Language Processing Disorder (LPD)
LPD affects understanding and using spoken language. Children may:
Have trouble following verbal instructions.
Misunderstand spoken information.
Struggle to organize thoughts when speaking or writing.
Support Strategies:
Breaking instructions into small, clear steps.
Using visual aids and written reminders.
Speech and language therapy support.
Why Early Support Matters
If these difficulties go unnoticed, children may develop low confidence, frustration, or avoidance of reading and writing tasks. With early detection, personalized teaching, and emotional encouragement, children can not only cope but excel in many areas of life.
Quick Tips for Parents & Teachers:
Celebrate progress, not perfection.
Work with specialists (special educators, speech therapists).
Use patience, encouragement, and positive reinforcement.
Provide consistent home-school communication.
Remember:
SLDs are not a reflection of intelligence — they are simply a different way of learning. With understanding, patience, and the right approach, every child can shine.
