Is It a Phase or Is It a Learning Disability?
Every parent knows that school can be challenging at times. A rough day, a difficult subject, or even adjusting to new routines can lead to temporary struggles. But what if your child’s learning difficulties are persistent? How do you know if it’s just a phase or if something more serious, like a learning disability, is at play? This article will help you understand the origins of learning struggles and how cognitive training can be a tool for improving learning skills—no matter the label.
Understanding Where Learning Struggles Begin
The brain plays a central role in learning, and differences in brain development and cognitive skills can be at the root of many learning difficulties. Research shows that specific areas of the brain are responsible for functions like attention, memory, and processing speed, all of which are critical to academic success. When there’s a deficiency in these areas, it can lead to persistent struggles.
For example, a study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that children with dyslexia often have structural differences in areas of the brain associated with reading and language processing. In ADHD, research has shown that the prefrontal cortex, the region responsible for executive functions like planning and attention, develops differently. These cognitive differences aren’t just personality quirks—they’re measurable factors that can have a direct impact on learning.
In addition to specific learning disabilities like dyslexia or ADHD, many students struggle with what are known as “cognitive skill deficiencies.” These deficiencies may not meet the criteria for a diagnosed learning disability but still affect performance in areas like reading comprehension, math problem-solving, or even staying focused in class.
Why Waiting Can Make Things Worse
It’s natural to want to give your child time to adjust or “catch up,” but waiting too long to address persistent school struggles can have serious consequences. Children who continuously fall behind their peers may start to internalize feelings of failure, leading to diminished confidence, increased anxiety, and a reluctance to try. As academic demands grow each year, these struggles can compound, making it even harder for the child to regain their footing.
A proactive approach is key. Cognitive assessments can help pinpoint the underlying reasons for your child’s struggles. Without identifying and addressing the root cause, the problem is unlikely to improve on its own.
The Role of Cognitive Training in Addressing Learning Struggles
Whether your child’s difficulties stem from a diagnosed learning disability or general cognitive challenges, there’s good news: the brain can be trained. Cognitive training targets the underlying cognitive skills needed for learning—things like attention, memory, logic, and processing speed.
At LearningRx, programs are designed to strengthen these core cognitive skills through one-on-one brain training. Research conducted by Dr. Amy Moore and other scientists shows that LearningRx programs can lead to significant improvements in the cognitive abilities that matter most for academic success . For instance, one study found that students who completed LearningRx programs improved in areas like attention, memory, and auditory processing—skills critical for reading, math, and overall school performance .
How Cognitive Training Works
LearningRx customizes cognitive training programs to each child’s specific needs based on an initial cognitive assessment. These assessments identify areas of cognitive weakness, then we use targeted exercises to address these skill deficits. Unlike tutoring, which focuses on reteaching academic content, cognitive training strengthens the mental tools your child needs to excel in any subject.
Final Thoughts
No parent wants to see their child struggle, but taking action sooner rather than later is the best way to ensure their long-term success. Whether it’s a phase or something more, cognitive training can provide lasting solutions that build confidence and improve learning skills. If your child has been facing difficulties in school, a cognitive assessment can offer the clarity you need to start making meaningful improvements today.
