WHAT ARE LEARNING DISABILITIES? "Learning Disabilities" are those preventing children of normal or above normal intelligence from progressing at the customary pace of regular school classes, or from responding to usual teaching techniques employed. The child with learning disabilities may have one or more of the following characteristics: Hyperactivity Hypoactivity Short attention span Distractability Impulsiveness Poor visual-motor coordination Poor sense of balance Poor large muscle coordination Poor fine motor coordination Rapid and excessive changes of mood Difficulty with reasoning Difficulty with abstract thinking Faulty perception Excessive repetition of a thought or action Problems in social interaction with peer group Inconsistent, unpredictable behavior Resistance to discipline Poor auditory or visual retention Each of these children is unique. Being afflicted with just some of the above characteristics can make conforming to the demands of home and school most difficult. When provided with understanding, instruction, and attention, many of these children are able to fit naturally into regular classes and develop their potentials as happy, productive citizens. The ultimate goal is to provide the child with learning disabilities an opportunity for total self-realization, to enable him to achieve dignity through his abilities and accomplishments.
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