What is a Learning Difference?
Understanding Dyslexia, ADHD & Other Differences
Learning differences are challenges caused by variations in how the brain processes information that impact students’ ability to read, write, practice math, and focus. Students with language-based learning differences require well-organized, focused and consistent, multisensory phonics instruction. We specialize in helping students who are struggling readers (dyslexia), have ADHD (executive function challenges), writing challenges (dysgraphia) and math challenges (dyscalculia).
We believe students have learning differences not learning disabilities. Cambridge School was founded on the belief that every child deserves the opportunity for an excellent education. We are committed to providing that education in a warm, nurturing and individualized learning environment for children who learn differently. Our mission is to prepare each student with the necessary academic, personal and social skills to succeed.
How do I know if my child has a learning difference?
If your child has a learning difference, some signs may be:
- Difficulty playing with sounds in words (rhyming, blending, breaking words apart)
- Trouble connecting letters to their sounds
- Struggles to sound out new words or recognize sight words
- Slow or choppy reading
- Difficulty understanding or retelling stories
- Trouble identifying main ideas or key details
- Challenges expressing ideas through writing
- Frequent spelling errors or difficulty spelling words as they sound
Is Cambridge the right fit for my child?
Fill out an admissions inquiry form and our admissions team will contact you to discuss your child’s individual learning needs and see if Cambridge is the right fit for your family.
What is Dyslexia?
According to the International Dyslexia Association, dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities.
Signs of Dyslexia
Recognizing key signs of dyslexia is the first step to further supporting your child. Some common signs of dyslexia include:
While dyslexia is the most common type of reading difference, there are also other types of reading challenges that fall under the category of struggling readers. They often show these same symptoms. Through testing, a neuropsychologist can formally diagnose a student with dyslexia.
However, intervention time can be lost while waiting for a formal diagnosis, and the best intervention for reading challenges of all types is a structured reading program. At Cambridge we use the Wilson® Reading System, an Orton-Gillingham-based, explicit, phonics program.
What is dysgraphia?
Dysgraphia is a learning difference that impacts a student’s written expression and fine motor skills.
Signs of dysgraphia
Signs of dysgraphia can present in multiple ways, usually within two categories: motor weakness and cognitive challenges, and students may experience difficulties from one or both categories. Some writing challenges you might see:
What is dyscalculia?
Dyscalculia is a specific learning disability with an impairment in mathematics, which can affect calculations, problem solving, or both.
Signs of dyscalculia
What you will see if your child has a math learning difference:
What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects brain development and how people manage attention, focus, and executive function.
Signs of ADHD
There are four types of ADHD: Inattentive ADHD, hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, combined presentation and unspecified presentation. Symptoms are generally put into two groups: inattention symptoms, and hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms.
Learning challenges you may see in a student with ADHD:
What should I do if I think my child has a learning difference?
If you think your child may have a learning difference, give us a call (609-730-9553) or fill out an inquiry form and we can help you with next steps!