learning and other difficulties

Learning issues have wider implications than the academic deficits per se.

A team of researchers developed a new tool measuring the quality of life of children and families with learning differences.

In its 15-item version, the tool covers three dimensions: academic performance, school adptation, and child and family psychology.

To verify its reliability, the team asked 325 parents of children in Grade 1 to 8 (no learning differences =232; learning differences =93) to take the test. Results showed substantial effects of the disorder--especially for older students.

Compared to other parents, those of children with “learning problems” reported more academic difficulties (such as taking a long time to complete homework, or being unable to work independently), but also non-academic issues (e.g., relating to the social component of the school experience) as well as spill-over effects on family life (such as reducing family activities to accommodate pedagogical needs, stress and frustration).

Indeed, the families of children with leaning differences also deplored a lack of understanding from educators and a lack of adaptation of the school environment.

Source: Waber et alia (2018)