What is a language-based learning disability?

(From ASHA.org)

Language-based learning disabilities are problems with age-appropriate reading, spelling, and/or writing. Language is the foundation for all learning, thus weaknesses in any area of language can affect learning and school achievement.

Language-based learning disabilities are NOT an indication of weak intelligence!

In fact, most people diagnosed with learning disabilities have average to superior intelligence.

What is dyslexia?

 Dyslexia is a term used to describe a specific difficulty decoding printed text. However, the term language-based learning disability is a more accurate term for a reading disability because of the relationship between spoken and written language. Most reading disabilities are the result of difficulties with at least one aspect of oral language. For example, difficulty processing the sounds of language (phonology) causes difficulties decoding text. Moreover, difficulty with oral and expressive vocabulary and sentence structure is directly related to difficulty with reading comprehension.

The child who has dyslexia as part of a larger language learning disability has trouble with both the spoken and the written word. These problems may include difficulty with the following:

• Expressing ideas clearly, as if the words needed are on the tip of the tongue but won’t come out. What the child says can be vague and difficult to understand (e.g., using unspecific vocabulary, such as “thing” or “stuff” to replace words that cannot be remembered). Filler words like “um” may be used to take up time while the child tries to remember a word.
• Learning new vocabulary that the child hears (e.g., taught in lectures/lessons) and/or sees (e.g., in books)
• Understanding questions and following directions that are heard and/or read
• Recalling numbers in sequence (e.g., telephone numbers and addresses)
• Understanding and retaining the details of a story’s plot or a classroom lecture
• Reading and comprehending material
• Learning words to songs and rhymes
• Telling left from right, making it hard to read and write since both skills require this directionality
• Letters and numbers
• Learning the alphabet
• Identifying the sounds that correspond to letters, making learning to read difficult
• Mixing up the order of letters in words while writing
• Mixing up the order of numbers that are a part of math calculations
• Spelling
• Memorizing the times tables
• Telling time

The great news is that language-based learning disabilities, including dyslexia, can be remediated. Children, who receive evidence-based intervention early, catch up to their peers more quickly.

For information about language-based learning disabilities check out: http://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/LBLD.htm