Welcome! You've chosen to get a quick overview of some common Specific Learning Differences (SpLDs) and Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)/Dyspraxia. These are neurodevelopmental variations that can affect how individuals learn specific skills or coordinate their movements.
Remember, these are differences, not deficits in intelligence. Each profile comes with its own set of challenges and often, unique strengths. This brief guide will introduce each one, and you can then choose to explore any of them in more detail on their dedicated pages.
Crucial Reminder: This information is for general understanding. Formal diagnosis by qualified professionals is essential for proper support and accommodations (see Page 175 for the full disclaimer).
In a Nutshell: Primarily affects accurate and fluent word reading, spelling, and phonological awareness (processing sounds in words).
Common Signs Might Include: Slow/effortful reading, difficulty decoding words, persistent spelling errors, trouble with rhyming or sound manipulation.
Key Strength Often Seen: Strong visual-spatial skills, creativity, big-picture thinking.
Want to learn more? Turn to Page 178: Unlocking Words - Understanding Dyslexia.
In a Nutshell: Affects the physical act of handwriting and/or the ability to express thoughts coherently in written form.
Common Signs Might Include: Illegible/inconsistent handwriting, slow writing speed, pain when writing, poor spelling, difficulty organizing written thoughts.
Key Strength Often Seen: Strong verbal expression, creative ideas (even if hard to write down).
Want to learn more? Turn to Page 182: The Writer's Journey - Understanding Dysgraphia.
In a Nutshell: Affects understanding number concepts, learning math facts, performing calculations, and mathematical reasoning.
Common Signs Might Include: Poor number sense, difficulty memorizing math facts, trouble with estimating or mental math, challenges with time/money.
Key Strength Often Seen: Potential strengths in verbal reasoning, creativity in other areas.
Want to learn more? Turn to Page 185: Making Sense of Numbers - Understanding Dyscalculia.
In a Nutshell: Affects the planning, organization, and execution of motor movements (both fine and gross).
Common Signs Might Include: Clumsiness, poor balance, difficulty with sports or activities like riding a bike, challenges with handwriting, buttoning clothes, or using tools. Can also impact organization and sometimes speech.
Key Strength Often Seen: Determination, creative problem-solving, strong verbal skills.
Want to learn more? Turn to Page 190: Grace in Motion (Or Not!) - Understanding Dyspraxia/DCD.