Learning disabilities: Myths and Facts

Myth: All learning disabilities (LD) are the same.

Fact: Learning disabilities is a complicated condition which includes a group of disorders such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia. The severity of the disorder and its symptoms may vary from person to person.

Myth: Children with learning disabilities has low IQ.

Fact: Learning disability is a neurological condition, and hence is not a sign of low intelligence. In fact, children with learning disabilities have average and above-average intelligence.

Myth: All learning disabilities are cured by adulthood.

Fact: With a few exceptions, learning disability cannot be cured. This does not mean that such children will not be successful. With the right support, children can learn to work around difficulties and use their strengths to achieve their goals in life.

Myth: Children with learning disabilities are lazy.

Fact: Children with learning disabilities work harder but their efforts do not bring out the results required. Due to this reason, children may become discouraged and appear to be lazy.

Myth: Learning disabilities and ADHD often co-exist.

Fact: It is true that nearly one-third of children with learning disabilities also have ADHD.