disabilities diagnosed

How are learning disabilities diagnosed ?

Learning disabilities are often identified once a child is in school. The school may use a process called “response to intervention” to help identify children with learning disabilities. Special tests are required to make a diagnosis.

A full evaluation for a learning disability includes the following:

– A medical exam, including a neurological exam, to rule out other possible causes of the child’s difficulties. These might include emotional disorders, 
   intellectual and developmental disabilities, and brain diseases.
– Reviewing the child’s developmental, social, and school performance
– A discussion of family history
– Academic and psychological testing
Usually, several specialists work as a team to do the evaluation. The team may include a psychologist, a special education expert, and a speech-language pathologist. Many schools also have reading specialists who can help diagnose a reading disability

School psychologists are trained in both education and psychology. They can help diagnose students with learning disabilities and help the student and his or her parents and teachers come up with plans to improve learning.

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