- What is Specific Learning Disorder (SLD)?
- SLD is a condition where children face persistent difficulties in one or more areas of learning—reading, writing, or mathematics—despite having average or above-average intelligence.
- These difficulties are not due to poor teaching, lack of effort, or other medical or mental health conditions.
- This condition is diagnosed based on the criteria described in medical guidelines like the DSM-5 or ICD-11 (diagnostic manual used by professionals to diagnose different neurodevelopmental and mental health disorders).
- One important point is that SLD is diagnosed only when the child is lagging behind academically by at least 3 standard deviations (SD) compared to what is expected for their age and grade.
- Also, Intellectual Disability (low IQ; below 85) must be ruled out before confirming the diagnosis of SLD.
- How Common is It?
- About 5 to 15% of Indian school-going children are affected by SLD.
- It is seen more often in boys (about 3 to 4 boys for every girl).
- Why Does It Happen?
SLD can result from a combination of different factors or reasons:
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- Genetic predisposition (means it may run in families or be inherited from parents)
- Neurocognitive challenges (differences in brain functioning related to how the child processes language or numbers)
- Environmental influences like limited early exposure to reading or learning activities
- Early Signs and Red Flags: What Parents Should Watch For?
If your child has been struggling in school for over 6 months, the following signs may indicate SLD:
- Reading (Dyslexia)
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- Reads slowly or haltingly
- Struggles to understand what they read
- Confuses similar-looking letters (like ‘b’ and ‘d’)
- May avoid reading aloud in class
- Writing (Dysgraphia)
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- Poor or untidy handwriting
- Frequent spelling mistakes
- Skipping punctuation and capital letters
- Writes very slowly, often unable to finish classwork
- Errors while copying from the board or textbook—may skip words or add extra ones
- Mathematics (Dyscalculia)
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- Finds it hard to understand numbers or basic operations
- Struggles with tables, place value, or solving word problems
- Difficulty with concepts of time, measurement, and money
- Mixes up mathematical signs like +, –, ×
These signs are not just occasional mistakes—they are consistent and interfere with everyday learning.
- How is SLD Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a detailed assessment by a team comprising of clinical psychologist, child psychiatrist, and/ or special educator.
Tests include:
- Psycho-educational assessments to measure reading, writing, math, memory, and attention
- Tools like the NIMHANS SLD Battery, used widely in India
- IQ testing, to ensure that the child does not have Intellectual Disability (SLD is diagnosed only if IQ is 85 or above)
- Support and Treatment:
SLD is a lifelong condition, but early support helps a child do well in school and life.
- Educational Support
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- Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) made by teachers and specialists
- Help from special educators
- Accommodations during exams—extra time, reduced syllabus, use of a reader or scribe
- Remedial Teaching
Special methods that help children learn in ways that suit their needs:
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- Fernald Method – uses multiple senses (seeing, hearing, touching) to learn
- ProjectMATH – simplifies math concepts
- Computer-based programs – make learning engaging and personalized
- SLD Certification:
Children aged 8 years and above can be assessed for SLD certification by authorized professionals. This certificate:
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- Is usually valid throughout life
- Allows for exam accommodations and other educational support
- Is accepted by many boards and universities in India
- Final Message to Parents:
- SLD does not mean your child is not intelligent—it simply means they learn differently.
- With early identification, the right guidance, and your support, the child can succeed just like others.
- If you’re concerned, don’t wait. Reach out to a clinical psychologist, child psychiatrist, or special educator for assessment and help.