Are you feeling overwhelmed by the idea of navigating the complex world of specific learning disorders (SLDs) for yourself or a loved one? It’s a daunting journey, filled with questions and uncertainties, particularly regarding understanding the assessment process.
SLDs affect many individuals, impacting their ability to read, write, or calculate efficiently or accurately. With the right support and understanding, those with these disorders can thrive academically and emotionally. However, deciphering the assessment landscape—filled with jargon and varying methodologies—can leave families feeling lost and frustrated.
Understanding the intricacies of the SLD assessment process is crucial for obtaining the necessary support and interventions. Familiarising yourself with the evaluations, tools, and resources can empower you to make informed decisions about effective learning strategies.
What is a specific learning disorder (SLD)?
SLDs are neurodevelopmental disorders that most commonly affect school-aged children. To be diagnosed with an SLD, a person must struggle with at least one of the following for at least six months despite having been provided additional support: accurate or efficient word reading, comprehending what is read, spelling, written expression, number sense, number facts, calculation, or math reasoning.
Specific learning disorders (SLDs) can impact negatively on a child’s academic development and emotional well being. Early identification and intervention can assist with achieving positive outcomes long term.
Common specific learning disorders (SLDs)
1. Dyslexia
A reading disability that affects a person’s ability to speak, read, write, or understand words. Dyslexia is the most common learning disability, representing at least 80% of all learning disabilities.
2. Dysgraphia
A writing disability that affects a person’s ability to put thoughts into writing. Symptoms include inconsistent and illegible handwriting, poor vocabulary, spelling and grammar.
3. Dyscalculia
A math disability that affects a person’s ability to perform arithmetic operations. Symptoms can include difficulty organising problems, finishing multi-step calculations, and distinguishing mathematical calculation signs.
Understanding the assessment process for specific learning disorders (SLDs)
The assessment process typically involves several steps:
1. Referral and initial screening
- Referral: A parent, teacher, or healthcare provider may refer a child for assessment if they notice difficulties in learning or academic performance.
- Initial screening: This involves a brief assessment to identify potential areas of concern, such as reading, writing, or math skills.
2. Comprehensive psychological evaluation
- Cognitive assessment: This measures a child’s intellectual abilities, including language, problem-solving, reasoning, and memory.
- Academic achievement tests: These assess a child’s skills in specific academic areas, such as reading, writing, and math.
- Processing skills assessment: This evaluates how a child processes information, including auditory processing, visual processing, and working memory.
- Behavioural and emotional assessment: This helps identify any underlying emotional or behavioural factors contributing to learning difficulties.
3. Review of educational records
- Examines school records, including school reports, standardised test scores (such as NAPLAN), and teacher observations.
4. Exclusionary factors
- Sensory impairments: Ruling out vision or hearing problems.
- Intellectual disability: Ensuring the individual’s intellectual abilities are within the typical range of development for their age.
- Emotional challengese: Assessing for underlying emotional or behavioural issues.
- Environmental factors: Considering factors like poverty, neglect, or trauma.
4. Clinical interview
The evaluator interviews the child and their parents to gather information about their strengths, challenges, and learning strategies.
- Identifying if levels of academic achievement are unexpectedly low.
- Analysing the individual’s learning profile to pinpoint areas of difficulty and strength.
5. Diagnostic report
- A comprehensive report is prepared, summarising the assessment findings, diagnosis, and recommendations for intervention.
The objective of an SLD assessment
- Diagnosis: Confirming the presence of a specific learning disorder (if appropriate).
- Eligibility for educational adjustments and additional support: Determining if the individual requires educational accommodations or additional small group or individual academic instruction.
- Individualised education plan (IEP) development: Creating a tailored plan to address the individual’s specific learning needs.
- Intervention planning: Designing effective interventions to improve academic skills and overall learning.
Key considerations for parents
- Early intervention: Early identification and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for children with SLDs.
- Collaboration with professionals: Work closely with educators, psychologists, and other professionals to develop a comprehensive support plan.
- Positive reinforcement: Encourage and praise your child’s efforts, focusing on their strengths and progress.
- Accommodations and modifications: Advocate for appropriate accommodations and modifications in the classroom to help your child succeed.
- Seek support: Connect with other parents of children with SLDs to share experiences and advice.
An accurate diagnosis of SLD can be vital for identifying and developing effective interventions and supports. If you have concerns about your child’s learning, consult a qualified professional to initiate the assessment process.
Final thoughts
Navigating the world of specific learning disorders (SLDs) may seem daunting, but understanding the assessment process can be the first step towards identifying your child’s learning needs.
By demystifying evaluations and collaborating with professionals, you empower not only your child but also yourself with the knowledge and tools needed for success.
