Does My Child Have Learning Difficulties: Spotting the Signs

Every child develops at their own pace, and it’s natural for parents to compare progress with peers. However, if you’ve started to notice that your child is struggling more than expected with schoolwork, communication, or daily tasks, you may wonder whether they have a learning difficulty. While only a professional can diagnose a specific condition, being aware of the signs can help you seek support early and give your child the tools they need to thrive. Here’s what to look for, inspired by the teachings of this prep school in Liverpool.

What Are Learning Difficulties?
Learning difficulties affect how a child understands, processes, and remembers information. They do not reflect intelligence or potential but may make certain tasks—such as reading, writing, or problem-solving—harder than for other children. Common examples include dyslexia, dyscalculia, and ADHD. With the right support, children with learning difficulties can succeed in school and beyond.

Early Signs to Look Out For
Spotting learning difficulties early can make a big difference. In younger children, you may notice:

· Struggling to learn the alphabet, numbers, or rhymes

· Difficulty following instructions or remembering routines

· Delays in speech and language development

· Trouble recognising patterns, shapes, or sequences

These signs don’t always point to a learning difficulty, but if they persist, it may be worth discussing them with your child’s teacher or GP.

Struggles at School
As children grow, challenges often become more noticeable in the classroom. Signs that may suggest a learning difficulty include:

· Difficulty reading, spelling, or writing, even after extra practice

· Trouble understanding maths concepts or solving basic problems

· Avoiding homework or showing frustration with school tasks

· Taking longer than expected to complete assignments

· Finding it hard to stay organised or follow multi-step instructions

Teachers are often the first to notice these patterns, as they can compare a child’s progress with that of their peers.

Emotional and Social Clues
Learning difficulties can affect more than academics. Many children show emotional or behavioural signs, such as:

· Low self-esteem or frequent feelings of failure

· Anxiety about going to school or completing tasks

· Acting out in class or withdrawing from activities

· Difficulty making or keeping friends

These behaviours may stem from frustration and can sometimes be mistaken for laziness or lack of effort. Understanding the root cause is key.

What To Do if You’re Concerned
If you suspect your child may have a learning difficulty, the first step is to talk to their teacher about what they’ve observed. Schools can arrange assessments and provide additional support where needed. You may also want to speak with your GP, who can refer your child for further evaluation.

At home, you can support your child by celebrating their strengths, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and offering plenty of encouragement. Many children with learning difficulties have unique talents, whether in creativity, problem-solving, or practical skills, and nurturing these can help build confidence.

Noticing signs of a learning difficulty can feel worrying, but it’s important to remember that with the right guidance and support, children can flourish. Early identification and intervention not only help with academic progress but also with emotional wellbeing, ensuring your child feels capable and confident.

*Collaborative post