Neurodevelopmental PT 3 Learning Disabilities

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Think a restless math class means ADHD? We peel back the layers to show how a specific learning disorder can masquerade as attention problems in one subject while everything else looks fine. With Hannah at the table, we walk through clear criteria, real classroom clues, and the practical ways to separate ADHD, SLD, or both—so kids get the right help faster.
We start with the three core domains of specific learning disorder—reading, written expression, and mathematics—and outline what struggle actually looks like: slow decoding and poor comprehension, disorganized writing and shaky spelling, weak number sense and problem‑solving. Then we zoom in on the six‑month rule: difficulties must persist despite targeted support like tutoring, accommodations, or structured interventions. You’ll hear why challenges often surface in third to fifth grade, when the work shifts from memorizing facts to analysis and synthesis, and how early intervention leverages neuroplasticity—the “paved roads” analogy that makes brain development easy to picture and act on.
To make this actionable, we map the assessment landscape. For learning, tools like the Woodcock‑Johnson, WIAT, WRAT, and KeyMath pinpoint subskill gaps; for attention and behavior, the Vanderbilt, Conners, BASC, and CBCL help establish cross‑setting patterns. The key move: if academic deficits remain after ADHD symptoms are well managed, a co‑existing SLD is likely and needs direct instruction. Along the way we share concrete signs to watch for in class, common pitfalls that delay help, and a quick recap of ADHD and autism spectrum disorder to anchor your mental model of neurodevelopmental differences.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or clinician, you’ll leave with a sharper lens and a practical plan: notice where the struggle lives, measure it well, intervene early, and monitor progress often. If this conversation helped clarify the maze of labels and supports, subscribe, share the episode with someone who needs it, and leave a review with the biggest insight you’re taking forward.

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This podcast is not associated with the NBCC, AMFTRB, ASW, ANCC, NASP, NAADAC, CCMC, NCPG, CRCC, or any state or governmental agency responsible for licensure.

Chapters

1. Setting Up Specific Learning Disorder (00:00:00)

2. The Three Specifiers Explained (00:01:10)

3. Diagnostic Criteria and Impairment (00:02:15)

4. ADHD Lookalikes in One Class (00:03:32)

5. Six-Month Duration and Supports (00:05:04)

6. When Deficits Emerge Later (00:06:24)

7. Early Intervention and Neuroplasticity (00:07:49)

8. Paved Roads Brain Analogy (00:09:14)

9. Distinguishing ADHD vs SLD vs Both (00:10:24)

10. The Role of Assessments (00:12:04)

11. Favorite Tools and Training (00:14:09)

12. Rapid Recap and Nonprofit Shoutout (00:15:24)

157 episodes

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