Is It Just a Learning Disorder, or Could It Be ADHD Too?

If your child struggles in school, it could be a learning disorder. But could it also be ADHD? There’s a link between the two. Researchers estimate that up to one in five children has one or both conditions.

Has your child been diagnosed with a learning disorder? They may have been struggling in school, and the learning disorder diagnosis explains their academic difficulties.

Having a learning disability allows your child to receive special assistance in school. The additional support may have helped, but does your child still have trouble keeping up?

At AMS Neurology in Pasadena, California, our team, led by board-certified pediatric neurologist Dr. Charles Niesen, provides expert care for children with learning disabilities and other neurological disorders.

If your child is already getting help for a learning disability but teacher feedback indicates there are still issues with turning in schoolwork, staying focused, and paying attention, your loved one may also have ADHD.

The link between learning disorders and ADHD

Research studies show that 30-50% of children with ADHD also have a learning disability. If your child already receives treatment for a learning disability, that’s good news.

If their teacher indicates they still exhibit behaviors that impact their learning, even though they’re getting help for their learning disability, they could also have ADHD.

Signs of ADHD

If your child’s teacher mentions that they struggle in the following ways, Dr. Niesen can provide a comprehensive assessment and screening for ADHD. If your child receives a diagnosis, we provide ongoing treatment for them and help you find the right resources for the family.

Trouble sitting still

Being unable to sit and stay on task in school is a hallmark of ADHD. Your child may seem to have a motor inside that never turns off.

Teachers may tell you that your child doesn’t complete work. They may tap a pencil on the desk, fidget with a pen and scribble, squirm constantly in their seat, or get up frequently when others are trying to work.

Easily distracted

Does your child’s teacher say they have trouble staying focused on their assigned tasks at school? Perhaps they start doodling, talking, or walking around when they’re supposed to be on task. Being easily distracted can be a sign of ADHD.

Weak organizational skills

Does your child’s backpack consistently look like a bomb exploded in it? Is it full of loose or torn papers, pencils, food, dirty folders, and clothing?

Does your teen forget to complete assignments or forget to turn them in on time? Children with ADHD often have weak executive function skills. It’s hard for them to stay organized.

Your loved one may be very intelligent, but because they don’t turn in schoolwork, their grades might be mediocre. They have the capability to receive As, but the report card may have more Cs.

Making careless mistakes or losing items

Does your child lose school assignments — either before or after they’ve completed them? Do you frequently need to circle back to a friend’s house to collect a toy or an item of clothing your child left there?

Does your loved one skip the details? Children with ADHD can get in their own way because they skim over instructions. Likely, your child’s grades could be better, but they frequently make careless mistakes.

Treating learning disorders and ADHD

If your child has a learning disorder paired with an ADHD diagnosis, it’s important to get professional help. With the proper academic accommodations, counseling, and sometimes, medication, they can succeed.

Your child should be entitled to an individualized education plan (IEP) or 504 accommodations at school. With their diagnosis in hand, your school’s social worker creates a team that establishes learning and behavioral goals for your child, with your approval.

We also provide resources to you, the parent, to help develop a structured daily and weekly routine that helps your child stay on track. Visual tools help your child accomplish weekly chores.

Breaking down instructions into short segments helps them complete assigned tasks at school and at home. Establishing a contract with a teen helps move them toward responsible independence.

For expert diagnosis and treatment of ADHD and learning disorders, call AMS Neurology or book an appointment online today.