Words by Cheyanne Bryan
Learning disabilities come in all shapes and sizes with everyone having a unique and independent experience. They encompass a wide range of conditions that affect an individual's ability to acquire, process, or retain information.
Learning difficulties are often mistaken as learning disabilities. A learning disability typically impacts an individual's cognitive abilities across various aspects of their life, while in contrast, a learning difficulty does not affect one's intellect but rather indicates challenges in learning specific skills, such as reading, writing, or maths.
Here is a quick guide on some of the most common types of learning disabilities/difficulties and charities that cater to them.
Dyslexia hinders an individual's reading, writing, and spelling abilities due to challenges in language processing. However with early identification and intervention, such as personalised instruction and accommodations, can help individuals with dyslexia overcome obstacles and succeed academically and in daily life.
Some accommodations for people with dyslexia include: text-to-speech/speech-to-text software, multisensory learning techniques, coloured overlays or tinted lenses to reduce visual stress, and providing extra time for reading and writing tasks, just to name a few.
Head over to the British Dyslexia Association’s website for more information and advice.
Similar to dyslexia, however dyscalculia affects a person's ability to understand and work with numbers. This may present as having difficulty with basic arithmetic operations, understanding mathematical concepts, and applying numeracy skills in everyday situations.
Luckily there are some adjustments that can help someone with dyscalculia such as using visual aids and manipulatives to represent numbers and mathematical concepts, breaking down maths concepts into more manageable steps, or support from a tutor trained in working with dyscalculia.
The Dyscalculia Association helps individuals with dyscalculia and other numeracy difficulties.
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that impacts communication, social interaction, and behaviour. Individuals with autism may face challenges in social skills, repetitive behaviours, sensory sensitivities, and communication difficulties.
Establishing a routine, creating a calm environment and allowing for sensory breaks are all ways to help someone with ASD.
There are many charities in the UK that help people with Autism such as the National Autistic Society and Daisy Chain.
Categorised by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. Individuals with Downs syndrome typically have distinct physical features, intellectual disabilities of varying degrees, and some may experience certain health issues such as heart defects, respiratory problems, and thyroid conditions.
With appropriate support and assistance, people with Downs syndrome can lead fulfilling lives and achieve their full potential.
The Down Syndrome Development Trust and Down’s Syndrome Association are just some of the charities that can help people with Downs syndrome live more independently.
Cerebral palsy primarily impacts movement, between 30-50% of individuals with cerebral palsy may also experience a learning disability due to the underlying causes of the condition. It can be caused before, during or after birth and happens when white matter in the brain is damaged.
Occupational therapy to enhance daily living skills and independence, communication aids and emotional support are just a few examples of support people with cerebral palsy may require.
Check out Action Cerebral Palsy and The Cerebral Palsy Foundation for more information or help.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Brain Charity. This charity supports all people with a neurological condition with practical, emotional and social support. Learn more here.
Different Brains. This non-profit organisation strives to encourage understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity. They work with individuals and organisations to ensure neurodivergent people are able to maximise their potential. Find out more here.
National Autistic Society. This charity supports people with autism and their families through various means and services. Support them here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Good Health and Wellbeing.
