Language-Based Learning Disability

To learn more, go to: Testing For Dyslexia

• See also: “Definition Displacia” - when testing leads to more confusion

The school says my child has a language-based learning disability, but they can't diagnose dyslexia. How can I get a diagnosis?

Many school districts and educators, especially in the U.S., no longer use the term "dyslexia" to describe children who experience the problems with reading, writing, and spelling that are hallmark symptoms of dyslexia. Rather, the schools are using terms like:

• Language-Based Learning Disability
• Auditory Processing Disorder
• Reading Disability
• Visual Processing Disorder

Parents should understand that these terms often mean the SAME THING as dyslexia.

Part of the reason that the schools do not like to use the term "dyslexia" is that it is a general term that does not tell educators exactly what needs the child has. A child with "dyslexia" may read well, but have difficulty with writing and spelling, whereas a child with a "reading disability" is clearly one who needs extra help with reading. Since educators are in the business of teaching specific skills to students, not treating disabilities or disorders, it makes sense for them to look for a label that tells them what skills the child needs to learn.

However, teachers and other educators often do not do a good job of explaining these terms to parents. Sometimes they say that "dyslexia" is a "medical term", which causes more confusion - the parent thinks erroneously that they must get a diagnosis from a medical specialist. Occasionally, this confusion results in parents or families being denied services that they are entitled to.

If your child has been determined to have a "learning disability" you have the SAME legal rights to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and other classroom accommodations as you would with a diagnosis of "dyslexia". Also, the solution is the same: your child needs specialized education geared to his or her learning style. In most cases, those techniques are the same as are commonly used for dyslexic children.