Learning Disabilities in Early Childhood

There are believed to be two main types or causes of LD's. The first kind is believed to be a result from neurological processing problems that causes difficulty with applying skills in one or more academic areas. There is evidence that a family history of learning disabilities will increase the chance that a child may develop learning problems.

The other possible causes of LD's are triggered by environmental factors and many can be prevented. Such factors include the following:

• Injuries and long-term illnesses affecting neurological development;
• Parental substance abuse;
• Poor prenatal medical care and nutrition;
• Prenatal injury or delivery complications;
• Exposure to environmental toxins such as lead or toxic mold;
• Poverty; and Abuse and neglect.

A child that presents with early risk factors will not conclusively have learning difficulties or disabilities, but it indicates a need to monitor for early intervention needs.

Developmental milestones are typically reached at predictable rates, but mild differences in development among children are normal. When moderate delays do exist a child should be monitored for future signs of learning disabilities though it is not always an indicator of a problem. It is important to be aware of typical development progress for infancy and early childhood so you can note when a possible delay may occur.

A pediatrician should examine your baby at birth to check vital signs and your child's response to various stimuli like sound, light and movement. During regular checkups, throughout your child's early development, the doctor will check and monitor your child's physical development, cognitive functioning, vision, speech and language. Keep notes and questions to share your concerns. If there is evidence of a problem, referrals will be made at that time to early intervention specialists for evaluation and treatment if necessary.

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