What Are Learning Disabilities, Learning Difficulties, and Special Needs?

 

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👩‍🏫 What is a Learning Disability?

🧠 A learning disability is when your brain works in a different way.
It can make some things harder to learn, like:

• 📖 Reading (called Dyslexia)

• ✍️ Writing (called Dysgraphia)

• ➕ Maths (called Dyscalculia)

🔹 It is not your fault – it’s how your brain works.
🔹 You can be smart, but still find some tasks hard.
🔹 It is with you for life, but you can learn ways to cope.
🔹 You might need extra help in school or work.

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📗 What is a Learning Difficulty?

👶 A learning difficulty means you find it harder to learn something than most people your age.

It can happen because of:

• 🧠 A learning disability (like Dyslexia)

• 💥 ADHD (you find it hard to sit still or concentrate)

• 👂 Problems with hearing or sight

• 🧍Stress or trauma

🟢 Some learning difficulties are temporary.
🟡 Others may last a long time.
🔵 People with learning difficulties may need some help to do well.

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📙 What Are Special Needs?

🧍‍♀️ Some people need extra help to live, learn, and take part in daily life.

We call this having special needs.

This can include:

• 🧠 Learning disabilities

• 🚶 Physical disabilities (like using a wheelchair)

• 🗣️ Communication problems

• 😟 Mental health needs (like anxiety or depression)

💡 People with special needs may need:

• A helper in school or college

• Extra time or breaks

• Tools or equipment

• A care plan or support plan

🧾 Everyone is different – support should be right for the person.

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✅ Summary

Word	What it means	Is it lifelong?	Needs support?
Learning Disability	The brain works differently – hard to read, write, or do math	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Learning Difficulty	Finds learning harder than others – many possible reasons	❓ Maybe	✅ Often
Special Needs	Needs extra help because of disability or condition	✅ Often	✅ Yes