So she may struggle for years before getting help. The earlier schools know about learning problems, the easier it is for them to give children the help they need.

Here are some common warning signs that a child may have a learning disability:

Grades K-4

• Slow to learn the connection between letters and sounds.

• Confuses basic words (run, eat, want).

• Reverses letters (b/d, m/w). Transposes letters in words (felt/left). Substitutes one word for another (house/home).

• Transposes numbers (14/41). Confuses arithmetic signs (+, -, x, =).

• Slow to remember facts.

• Unstable pencil grip.

• Trouble learning about time.

Grades 5-8

• Reverses groups of letters (soiled/solid).

• Avoids reading aloud.

• Trouble with word problems in math.

• Awkward, fist-like or tight pencil grip.

• Avoids writing papers for school.

• Slow or poor recall of facts.

Most children have at least one of these problems at least some of the time. But if your child has several problems over a long period of time, talk with your child’s teacher. Together, you can decide if your child needs to be tested for a learning disability.

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