There are several types of learning disorders identified by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-IV TR (2000). The first three of these disorders have to do with reading, writing, and math.

The learning disorder associated with reading is better known as dyslexia. In dyslexia, children often reverse letters. Other problems include a slower pace of reading which causes a child to fall behind in class. Other problems under reading disorders include problems with pronunciation and comprehension. These problems in children are not due to visual difficulties or language as a whole. In addition, children with reading disorders often have other learning disorders as well.

Math disorders, or Dyscalculia, are associated with problems in reading numbers, performing simple problems, comprehending the placement of numbers and characters, and with visual/spatial placement.

Learning Disorders often have a severe impact on the life of a child. Not only do they have difficulties in functioning in class at a good pace, they are often social outcasts and have behavioral difficulties. Coexisting depression and ADHD are not uncommon in those with learning disorders because of the difficulties they cause. In addition, children with learning disorders tend to have low self-esteem, and low expectations about their performance in a classroom setting. This tends to cycle with children not expecting much, low motivation, and continued poor performance.

In addition to these, there are what the DSM IV (2000) identifies as specific language disorders, of which there are three: phonological disorder, expressive disorder, and mixed receptive-expressive disorder. In phonological disorder, children are unable to display speech and dialect sounds that are age appropriate. In expressive disorder, a child's ability to speak is below his or her nonverbal intelligence level. In mixed receptive-expressive disorder, a child's ability to speak and understand are below his or hers nonverbal intelligence level. These disorders often interfere with daily functioning, but children are still able to do things such as puzzles and building blocks at a normal level. Children are usually diagnosed in preschool and vary as to whether they catch up to other children. Children with mixed receptive-expressive disorder are at the highest risk for never developing normal language skills. Furthermore, these children often have problems with cognitive processing, memory, and attention span.

There are signs of learning disorders that parents can watch for.

1. Pausing before naming objects

2. Short attention span

3. Problems with coloring or drawing

4. Problems with motor skills

5. Problems understanding simple instructions

6. Difficulty understanding or using language

7. Problems with short term memory

8. Unable to read, spell, or write thus failing schoolwork

9. Reversing letters, numbers, or words

There are also tips for working with children with learning disorders. For children with reading disorders, it is suggested to get large print books, or books on tape or computer. For children with writing difficulties, it is helpful to add more structure to lined paper, such as making the lines darker or raising them. It is also helpful to use color coordination and less materials. For children with auditory problems, it is suggested to provide written instructions as well, and to simplify verbal instructions.