Identifying Learning Disabilities in Middle School and Junior High Kids

When children with learning disabilities go without being diagnosed, the stress and frustration can make them feel dumb or worthless. If these feelings go on for too long the children may take out their frustrations in destructive ways like drug use or violence.

Children with learning disabilities need to know that they are not dumb, but rather that their neutral networking is simply configured in a different fashion than most children. These children need to be told that they are special, and just as bright as every other child.

If you think that some of the following characteristics accurately describe your child, you need to speak with a professional as soon as possible.

• Confusing a sequence of letters (left/felt)
• Trouble interpreting facial expressions or body language
• Trouble with handwriting
• Difficulty recalling facts
• Problems in social situations
• Problems with learning spelling strategies
• Avoids writing assignments
• Trouble making friends
• Difficulty with analytical skills like word problems
• Afraid of reading aloud in class or even at home

Parents need to know exactly what their child's problems are before they can do anything to help them. If you think your child may have a learning disability, take the initiative and contact their school as soon as possible. Have the school evaluate your child for learning disabilities, and if they do not have a specialist on staff, ask if they can refer you to a physician or other health care professional.