What is not LD

 

  • Persons with learning disabilities are not "lazy" or "dumb." In fact, they usually have average or above average intelligence. Often they fall within the range or "gifted." Their brains just process information differently.
  • Attention disorders, such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and learning disabilities often occur at the same time, but they're not the same.
  • Learning disabilities are not the same as mental retardation and do not signify low intelligence.
  • Learning disabilities are not the same as autism, hearing or visual impairment, physical disabilities, or emotional disorders.
  • Learning disabilities are not the same as the normal process of learning a second language.
  • Learning disabilities aren't caused by lack of educational opportunities, such as frequent changes of schools, poor school attendance, or lack of instruction in basic skills.
  • Learning disabilities are not caused by economic disadvantage, environmental factors or cultural differences. In fact, there is frequently no apparent cause for LD.
  • A learning disability is not a disease, so there is no cure, but there are ways to overcome the challenges it poses through identification and accommodation.
  • Dyslexia does not mean that the person sees words "backwards."