A learning disability is a neurological disorder. In simpler terms, a learning disability results from a difference in the way a person's brain is "wired." Children with learning disabilities are as smart or smarter than their peers. But, they may have difficulty reading, writing, spelling, reasoning, recalling and/or organizing information and doing mathematics, if left to figure things out by themselves or if taught in conventional ways.

The reality is that a learning disability cannot be cured or fixed; it is a lifelong challenge. Take heart in knowing that with appropriate support and intervention, children with learning disabilities can achieve in school and go on to successful, often distinguished, careers.

You are your child's best advocate. You can help your child by capitalizing on strengths, defining areas of weakness, understanding the educational system, working with teachers and other professionals, and helping your child learn strategies for dealing with his or her difficulties.

The most common learning disabilities are:

Auditory and visual processing disabilities: A person with normal hearing and vision has difficulty understanding and using language.

Dyslexia: A person has trouble understanding written words, sentences or paragraphs.

Dyscalculia: A person has difficulty solving arithmetic problems and grasping math concepts.

Dysgraphia: A person finds it hard to form letters or write within a defined space.