So, let’s talk about Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), also known as DSA. These are basically brain-based issues that make it tough for kids to read, write, or do math smoothly and accurately.
When kids first start school, it’s pretty normal for some of them to struggle a bit with reading or writing. Usually, they get the hang of it within the first year. But for some kids, these challenges stick around, even with extra help from parents and teachers.
If that’s the case, the child might have a Specific Learning Disorder, which includes things like dyslexia, dysgraphia, dysorthographia, and dyscalculia.
While most diagnoses happen after second grade, catching these issues early is super important. It helps kids get the tools they need to tackle their daily challenges.
What’s DSA All About?
According to the DSM-5 (a big manual for mental health), specific learning disabilities show up as “trouble learning and using academic skills that are below what’s expected for their age.” But here’s the thing: these struggles aren’t because of other mental or neurological issues, language barriers, or bad teaching.
It’s also worth noting that these disorders only affect specific skills, not overall intelligence. So, kids with DSA can be just as smart, or even smarter, than their peers. They often think in pictures, visualizing words and remembering things as experiences rather than abstract ideas.
The Four Types of DSA
DSA is broken down into four main types:
- Dyslexia: This is a reading disorder where kids have a hard time decoding texts. They might read slowly, make mistakes, and struggle to understand what they read. Common issues include mixing up letters and numbers, swapping letters, and having trouble with things like multiplication tables.
- Dysorthography: This one’s all about spelling. Kids with dysorthography have a tough time applying spelling rules and recognizing sounds in words. They might mix up letters, leave out letters, or struggle to write sentences.
- Dysgraphia: This affects writing. Kids with dysgraphia might write messily and have trouble organizing their thoughts on paper. They could hold their pen awkwardly, press too hard, and have a hard time copying things down.
- Dyscalculia: This is a math-related disorder. Kids with dyscalculia struggle with numbers, calculations, and understanding math concepts. They might have trouble recognizing numbers, counting backward, or memorizing multiplication tables.
DSA vs. BES vs. ADHD
BES stands for Special Educational Needs, which covers a range of learning difficulties that don’t always have a specific diagnosis but still impact a child’s school performance. This can include kids with disabilities, those facing socio-economic challenges, and kids with DSA who might need a Personalized Educational Plan (PDP).
ADHD, on the other hand, is all about attention issues, impulse control, and hyperactivity, and it falls under the SEN umbrella too.
What Causes DSA?
There’s a general agreement that DSA comes from neurobiological issues that mess with how kids learn to read and write. Factors can include genetics, brain development issues, and even environmental influences. DSA often shows up alongside other conditions like ADHD, anxiety, or depression.
Who Diagnoses DSA?
To get a diagnosis, you’ll need to see a child neuropsychiatrist or psychologist. They’ll evaluate the child and can diagnose conditions like dyslexia or dysgraphia after second grade, and dyscalculia after third grade. But don’t wait for a diagnosis to start helping—early intervention is key!
Once diagnosed, parents can work with schools to create a personalized educational plan that includes the right support and tools for their child.
How to Spot DSA in Kids
Signs of DSA can vary, but kids might be unfairly labeled as lazy or not smart. They might do well on oral tests but struggle with written ones, get anxious during reading tasks, or seem easily distracted. This can lead to low self-esteem as they feel like they’re falling behind.
Symptoms of DSA
Some common signs include:
- Trouble reading and writing, with specific errors like letter reversals or substitutions.
- Difficulty remembering sequences like days of the week or the alphabet.
- Confusion with spatial and time concepts.
- Struggles with math symbols and calculations.
- Challenges in learning foreign languages.
Treatment for DSA
Treatment usually involves a tailored rehabilitation plan, often led by a speech therapist or another trained professional. The goal is to help the child understand their challenges and develop strategies to manage them. Each treatment plan is unique and based on the specific disorder the child has.
In short, with the right support and understanding, kids with DSA can thrive and succeed in school!
