Cognitive skills are required for virtually every task we complete. As you read this sentence underlying processes are hard at work in your brain, translating symbols into meaning and allowing you to comprehend the words on the screen.
Weak underlying processing skills lead to challenges with learning and attention. Smart individuals often underachieve due to weaknesses in underlying neurological processes.
Learning Disability is an umbrella term for a wide variety of problems with learning.
Some challenges with learning constitute a learning disability, like ADHD or Dyslexia, however, individuals can have a learning challenge, but not a disability.
One in five individuals has a learning or attention disability, however, more than 60% are not identified. Only 8% of public-school students are supported by an IEP or 504-plan.
This leaves millions with undiagnosed and unsupported learning and attention disabilities, leading to higher dropout rates and lower life satisfaction.
But there is hope.
With accurate identification and the right support, individuals with weak underlying cognitive skills can achieve their full potential.
Understanding the signs can help you or a loved one get the right support.
Signs of weak cognitive skills in early childhood (preschool – elementary):
delayed speech and language development
difficulty following directions and routines
inflexible with changes in routine
difficulty rhyming
slow to learn symbols like the alphabet, numbers, or shapes
problems with pronunciation
easily frustrated when learning new skills
trouble discriminating or blending sounds
confuses or skips basic words when reading
balance and hand-eye coordination problems
overly sensitive to certain sounds or feelings
Signs of weak cognitive skills in late childhood (middle-high school):
avoids reading aloud, writing tasks, or tasks requiring prolonged mental effort
appears to work harder, or take longer, than their peers to complete assignments
poor handwriting
monotone voice and/or trouble modulating voice
poor written expression compared to verbal expression
trouble following along and participating in class
different spellings for the same word in a single assignment
impulsive or poor decision-making skills
procrastination and/or trouble with task completion
trouble falling or staying asleep
poor planning and organization
Signs of weak cognitive skills in adulthood:
low self-esteem
poor listening skills
chronically late or overly early
trouble keeping a job
rarely initiating or organizing plans
trouble making and maintaining relationships
disorganized or forgetful
reckless, impulsive decision-making
extreme work ethic (whether under- or over-achieving, puts forth great effort to complete tasks)
difficulty reading unfamiliar fonts
easily lost and/or trouble reading maps
If you or someone you know is struggling with the frustration of a learning challenge, there is help. A Skill Evaluation at NeuroAide will help identify the root cause of a learning disability and provide a roadmap for developing cognitive tools.
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