Paediatrics: Learning difficulties/disabilities

Learning difficulties/disabilities

·  Learning difficulty categorized as mild, moderate, severe, or profound.

Cognitive function can be assessed by an IQ (intelligence quotient) test (Table 15.2), but it may be difficult to assess all skill areas, especially in preschool age group—assessment can be significantly affected by language problems and motor skills.

Mild learning disability may only be detected once a child is in school. A child with moderate learning difficulty will need significant support in their education. One with severe difficulties will learn basic personal care and develop simple speech, but will always need supervision. A child with profound difficulty is unlikely to develop speech and will always be dependent.