A learning disability, or language-based learning disability, is a neurological disorder that affects at least one process involved in using and understanding spoken or written language.
People diagnosed with learning disabilities have average to above average intelligence, difficulties may exist in reading, writing, spelling, mathematics, thinking, attending and processing. Skill development may be uneven, with noticeable differences between achievement and capability in different areas.
For example, a person with a learning disability can be quite verbal, artistic and good at mathematics, yet have difficulties in decoding, reading, writing and spelling. Others may be stronger at reading and writing, but have reduced organizational and mathematical skills.
Evaluation of Learning Disabilities
Working as a team with parents, caregivers and educators, I evaluate spoken and written language for children identified as having academic and learning difficulties. A complete language evaluation includes gathering information, observing classroom activities and giving standardized tests to assess language, executive functions and academic skills. I then compare results from all areas to identify areas of strengths and weaknesses. My goal is to target specific weaknesses in language, reading and writing and to support growth in these areas.
Understanding the Role of Speech and Language Testing in Assessing Learning Disabilities
Many times speech and language testing is a first step in teasing apart the weaknesses impacting reading and literacy. Formal evaluations such as the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals-5 (CELF-5), the CELF Preschool, the Comprehensive Assessment of Spoken Language (CASL), etc. will be administered; standard scores, and percentiles compare your child’s skills with norms from other children of the same age.
Sometimes a speech and language evaluation will not explain everything. In this case evaluations by psychologists and educators will also be invaluable to put all the pieces together. While there is some overlap between testing with these specialists, only a speech language pathologist can diagnose a language disorder. A psychologist will formally assess cognitive abilities, verbal versus nonverbal skills, memory and attention. By comparing the language, educational and psychological testing, the psychologist can then diagnose learning disabilities.
Did you know these famous people had learning disabilities? Einstein, Walt Disney, Whoopi Goldberg, Elvis Presly, Tom Cruise
