Specific learning difficulties
A learning difficulty is not the same thing as a learning disability.
A specific learning difficulty (SpLD) means someone has a difference or difficulty with one or more parts of learning.
Having a SpLD does not mean that your child or young person cannot achieve and succeed in learning. However, they may struggle at school. They may need to learn in different ways and get extra help.
There are many types of learning disabilities. They're not just about intelligence. Many people with a learning disability can live on their own. As well as having a job and their own family. Others may need care and support for their entire lives.
Voice of children and young people with SpLD
We spoke to children and young people in Kent who have SpLD and asked them how they feel. This is what they told professionals:
"I don't know what to say, and can't use the right words"
"Don't ask me to read aloud or in front of my friends"
"People don't listen to me"
"I say I don't know because I don't know how to explain"
"Sometimes I do things to get in trouble to avoid talking or asking for help"
"I don't understand, you're saying too much to me"
"Others ignore me or walk away when I'm talking"
Common types of specific learning difficulties
The following are the most common types of physical disabilities for children in Kent with an education, health and care (EHC) plan. The signs of a specific learning difficult are different in every person.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition which affects parts of the brain controlling attention, impulses and concentration. For additional support and guidance you can visit our ADHD support page.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia can cause problems with reading, writing and spelling. Unlike a learning disability, your child's intelligence isn't affected.
Visit the NHS dyslexia webpage, to find health advice and links to charities that can help you. You can also find dyslexia support on our directory.
Dyspraxia
Dyspraxia affects both movement and coordination, affecting balance, sports, and learning to drive. It is also known as developmental coordination disorder (DCD). It does not affect your child's intelligence.
Visit the NHS dyspraxia webpage, to find health advice and links to charities that can help you. You can also find dyspraxia support on our directory.
Dyscalculia
Children with dyscalculia have difficulty understanding, learning, and performing maths and number-based operations.
Visit the NHS dyscalculia webpage, to find health advice and links to charities that can help you. You can also find dyscalculia support on our directory.
Dysgraphia
Dysgraphia means having trouble reading and hearing written words, letters, or sounds. Those with dysgraphia find writing, spelling, and forming words hard.
Visit the Hft Learning Disabilities Allies website or watch this video from Dyslexic Advantage to find out more about dysgraphia.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) can happen when alcohol passes through a mother's blood to the placenta. The alcohol within the bloodstream can harm the baby's brain and development.
Visit the NHS FASD webpage to find health advice and links to charities that can help you.
Education support for your child or young person
Whether your child is in early years, primary school, secondary school or in a post 16+ setting, there is help available. Explore our SEND Information Hub to discover how you can get extra help for your child.
Social care support
Support may be available if your child or young person is between 0 and 18 years old.
A member of our Disabled Children's or Young People's Team will assess your child's and family's needs. Our goal is to get to know you and find out what you need help with and what you want to make changes to.