Intellectual Disability vs Learning Disability

🎒 Common Learning Disabilities in Preschool (Ages 4–6)

🧠 Note: In early childhood, we usually say "learning difficulties" or "delays" — because formal diagnoses like dyslexia or dyscalculia often happen later. But early signs can appear in preschool!

1. Language Delay / Language Processing Disorder

• Definition: Trouble understanding (receptive) or using (expressive) spoken language.

• Scenario: A 5-year-old doesn't follow simple directions like "put your bag in your cubby" or uses very few words to express needs.

• Accommodations:

  • Use visual supports (pictures, gestures)

  • Speak in short, clear sentences

  • Give extra time to respond

  • Repeat and model correct language gently
    
    

2. Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)

• Definition: Difficulty understanding and processing sounds, even though hearing is normal.

• Scenario: A child hears you speak but can’t tell what you said if there’s background noise.

• Accommodations:

  • Reduce noise or distractions

  • Speak slowly and clearly

  • Check for understanding ("Can you show me what I asked?")

  • Use visual cues
    
    

3. Dyslexia (Early Signs)

• Definition: Difficulty recognising letters, sounds, or rhyming — related to reading.

• Scenario: A 5-year-old avoids storytime, can’t recognise letters in their name, and struggles to rhyme "cat" with "hat".

• Accommodations:

  • Use multi-sensory activities (touch, sound, sight)

  • Don’t force reading — focus on fun with books

  • Label classroom items with both pictures and words

  • Practice rhymes, songs, and name recognition daily
    
    

4. Dyscalculia (Early Signs)

• Definition: Trouble understanding numbers, counting, or recognising quantity.

• Scenario: A child can't count to 10 or match numbers to groups of objects, even with daily practice.

• Accommodations:

  • Use real objects to count (snacks, toys)

  • Play number games with movement or music

  • Avoid pressure; celebrate small successes

  • Repeat number songs, finger plays
    
    

5. Visual Processing Disorder

• Definition: Trouble understanding or remembering what is seen.

• Scenario: A child struggles to copy shapes or puzzles and often bumps into things.

• Accommodations:

  • Offer hands-on materials instead of worksheets

  • Provide bold, clear visuals

  • Use tactile play (playdough, blocks, sensory bins)

  • Allow movement breaks
    
    

6. Fine Motor Delay (often co-occurring with LDs)

• Definition: Difficulty with small hand movements (cutting, drawing, holding crayons).

• Scenario: A child avoids writing tasks, holds a crayon with a fist, or tires quickly when coloring.

• Accommodations:

  • Use thicker crayons or adaptive tools

  • Allow alternative activities (e.g., finger painting)

  • Build strength with play (clay, tweezers, beads)

  • Avoid forcing tracing/writing
    
    

7. Working Memory Difficulties

• Definition: Trouble remembering instructions or sequences.

• Scenario: The child forgets what to do even after you just explained it.

• Accommodations:

  • Give one direction at a time

  • Use visuals or step-by-step pictures

  • Pair with a buddy when appropriate

  • Repeat instructions and check in frequently
    
    

Even without a diagnosis, preschool teachers can:

• Observe and document patterns

• Work closely with families

• Use early intervention services if concerns persist
  
  

💡 Reminder: Preschool is the perfect time to support early learning needs — the brain is flexible and growing fast!

1. Accommodation

• An accommodation is a change in the way a child learns or participates in an activity. It doesn’t change the content of what is being taught — it just helps the child access the same learning in a different way.

Example of Accommodation:

• A child has difficulty sitting still for storytime. An accommodation could be allowing them to stand or move around quietly while listening to the story. This change in how the child participates makes it easier for them to engage without missing out on the learning.

Classroom Scenario:

• Accommodation for a child with hearing impairment: The teacher may use a visual schedule on the board, showing the day’s activities. This helps the child understand what comes next, even if they can’t hear all the instructions clearly.
  
  

2. Adaptation

• An adaptation is a change in the content of what is being taught, or the learning goal itself. It’s a more significant modification to meet the child’s specific needs.

Example of Adaptation:

• A child with a learning difficulty might be given simpler tasks or asked to do fewer activities during the day. For example, while other children might sort 10 blocks by colour, the child might only be asked to sort 5 blocks.

Classroom Scenario:

• Adaptation for a child with fine motor delay- The teacher provides larger crayons and thicker pencils for a child who has trouble holding smaller items. This helps the child still participate in art activities but in a way that suits their ability.