Learning Disorders and Disabilities
Also known as: language-based disabilities
What are learning disorders and disabilities?
Learning disabilities and learning disorders are brain based processing difficulties which interfere with learning skills like reading, writing and/or doing mathematics. They may also cause problems with memory, attention, time planning and organization.
Learning disabilities is a broad term which also describes a number of more specific learning disabilities like dyslexia. Children with learning disorders usually have normal intellectual ability.
Learning disabilities are different to “learning problems” which are usually due to visual, hearing and/or motor handicaps.
What causes learning disorders and disabilities?
There is frequently no specific cause found for a child with a learning disorder. Potential causes of learning disorders and disabilities are multiple and varied. Some tend to run in families, while others may have an environmental component such as exposure to drugs or nutritional deprivation while in the womb. Childhood injuries or other illnesses (like epilepsy) may also lead to learning disorders and disabilities.
What are the symptoms of learning disorders and disabilities?
Symptoms usually appear by the age of 3 years (but can present earlier or later) and can range widely depending on the nature of the disability. Common symptoms include:
- reading and math difficulties
- trouble forming thoughts and communicating them
- trouble understanding speech
- appear not to be paying attention
- unable to answer questions in class (because they can't process the information like other children)
- problems organizing schoolwork
A specific learning disorder is one that has been present for more than 6 months; starts during the school years; causes children to function below their expected level in school or in everyday life; and is not due to some other condition (like vision or hearing loss).
What are learning disorders and disabilities care options?
Children with learning disorders and disabilities need a good special education program, family and community support.
Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP
This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:29 PM
Adaptive Care Program
At Nicklaus Children's Hospital, our inpatient Adaptive Care Programsupports the needs of our neurodivergent population and other eligible children. Our Adaptive Care team works with the families of children with behavioral and developmental needs such as autism, to create a safe and comfortable environment during their hospitalization.
This inpatient program is offered to families of children over the age of 3 who have difficulty coping during hospitalization, or have sensory, behavioral, or communicative needs. If your child would benefit from the Adaptive Care Program, please contact AdaptiveCareTeam@nicklaushealth.org, so our team can provide tools and support for your child's needs. Our Adaptive Care Patient Resources can also help you plan for a more comfortable experience for your child before, during, and after their hospital visit or stay.
The University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD), South Florida's leading resource for autism support, recognizes Nicklaus Children's Hospital as an Autism Friendly Partner.
Learn MoreUse the symptom checker tool to check how serious your symptoms are, if a healthcare visit is needed, and what steps you can take to relieve your symptoms at home.