Resources for Language-based Learning Differences

What is a Language-Based Learning Difference?

Language-based learning differences (LLDs) affect the way the brain processes information and can impact how a child learns to read, write, hear, speak, or calculate. Children have different learning styles, but some students experience a greater disconnection between their academic aptitude and their ability to read or write. An LLD is not a reflection of low intelligence but it can negatively impact your child's self-esteem and confidence.

According to The International Dyslexia Association, 15-20% of the people in the United States have a language-based learning difference. Of the students with specific learning disabilities receiving special education services, 70-80% have deficits in reading.

LLDs are caused by a difference in brain structure that is present at birth and is often hereditary. There are many kinds of learning differences, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, and they can affect people in various ways. LLDs affect both genders equally as well as all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds.

Children who struggle in reading tend to experience a dramatic decline in their reading ability around fourth grade, when reading instruction typically shifts from basic decoding and word recognition to development of fluency and comprehension. This is the time when most classes transition from "learning to read" to "reading to learn".

Verticy Learning encourages your child to discover new ways of learning the foundations of reading and writing through specialized curriculum, innovative teaching techniques, and computer-based learning tools. This discovery leads to a more empowered student who is able to achieve academic success and recapture the wonder of independent learning.

Helpful Language-based Learning Links

Below you will find various resources for families who have children with language-based learning differences, dyslexia, and other similar learning disabilities.

The International Dyslexia Association

The International Dyslexia Association(IDA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, scientific, and educational organization dedicated to the study and treatment of the learning disability dyslexia as well as related language-based learning differences.

National Center for Learning Disabilities

The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) works to ensure that the nation's 15 million children, adolescents, and adults with learning disabilities have every opportunity to succeed in school, work, and life.

American Academy of Pediatrics

Dedicated to the health of all children, the AAP website provides helpful information on treating LLDs, and other health topics.

LD OnLine

LD OnLine is the world's leading web site on learning disabilities and ADHD, serving more than 200,000 parents, teachers, and other professionals each month. LD OnLine seeks to help children and adults reach their full potential by providing accurate and up-to-date information and advice about learning disabilities and ADHD.

Learning Disabilities Association of America

Since 1963, LDA has provided support to people with learning disabilities, their parents, teachers and other professionals. At the national, state and local levels, LDA provides cutting edge information on learning disabilities, practical solutions, and a comprehensive network of resources. These services make the Learning Disabilities Association of America the leading resource for information on learning disabilities.

National Institute of Mental Health

The mission of NIMH is to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through basic and clinical research, paving the way for prevention, recovery and cure.

National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities

NICHCY is very pleased to offer you a wealth of information on disabilities! NICHCY stands for the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities. We serve the nation as a central source of information on:

• disabilities in infants, toddlers, children, and youth,
• IDEA, which is the law authorizing special education,
• No Child Left Behind (as it relates to children with disabilities), and
• research-based information on effective educational practices.

National Institute for Literacy

The National Institute for Literacy, a federal agency, provides leadership on literacy issues, including the improvement of reading instruction for children, youth, and adults.

Learning Abled Kids

Learning Abled Kids is a resource and support site designed to provide families with information, curriculum resources, and tools to help you teach your bright child with learning issues at home. You'll find information about reading disabilities, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD), ADD, ADHD, homeschool curriculum recommendations, tools for teaching and learning, and a whole lot more.

Homeschool Central

Sometimes homeschool families have special needs children. In fact homeschooling is well suited to these children. Here are links that will help the homeschool family with a special needs child.

A Parent's Guide to Helping Kids with Learning Differences

Offers resources to parents of children with learning differences, including a community of parents.

Friends of Quinn

A community of parents of children with language-based learning differences, Friends of Quinn is where learning differences meets support.