Learning Disabilities test in Palo alto, CA

Wondering if your child has dyslexia or a Learning Disability?

common signs of Learning Disabilities in Children might mean your child….

  • Has difficulty sounding out words

  • Reads slowly or pauses for each word

  • Confuses similar letters or sounds

  • Can’t remember what they read

  • Avoids reading

  • Has poor spelling

  • Doesn’t quickly recognize common words

  • Reverses letters

  • Has messy handwriting

  • Struggles to learn basic math facts

  • Makes errors in calculation

  • Has difficulty with word problems

Why are Dyslexia Tests and other Learning Disability Tests Helpful?

It is normal for kids to make mistakes as they are learning new academic skills. However, if your child continues to struggle with reading, writing, and math after several years of instruction at school, it may be a sign of a learning disability. It is my goal to provide you with a clear diagnosis and create a plan to help your child thrive. With appropriate interventions and accommodations in school, children with learning disabilities can be successful students. 

Explore some frequently asked questions about learning disability tests below (such as dyslexia tests, dysgraphia testing and dyscalculia tests) or schedule a free consultation.

+ What are learning disabilities?

A learning disability is a difficulty in reading, writing, or math despite appropriate instruction. These difficulties are caused by differences in the way the brain is organized and processes information. Learning disabilities are not related to intelligence. Students may have a learning disability in just one subject, or in multiple areas.

+ How are dyslexia tests helpful?

Dyslexia is the most common learning disability, and impacts both reading and writing. Signs of dyslexia include difficulty sounding out words, slow reading, and poor spelling. While we think of reading as “visual,” dyslexia is most often caused by differences in phonological processing, which is the way that are brain takes apart, puts together, and rearranges the sounds of language.

+ How does Dysgraphia Testing Differ?

Dysgraphia is a term used to describe difficulties in handwriting and fine motor skills. Often, kids with dysgraphia will have poor spelling or struggle to get their good ideas down on paper. Students with dysgraphia may tire easily or avoid writing tasks all together.

+ What about Dyscalculia Tests?

Dyscalculia is another word for a specific learning disability in math. Students with dyscalculia may have difficulty making calculations, memorizing math facts, or understanding math concepts. Dyscalculia is not as well understood as dyslexia, but is estimated to impact between 5-10% of students.

+ How are learning disabilities in children diagnosed?

Learning disabilities are diagnosed by psychologists and educational specialists by using standardized assessments. This means that we are comparing your child to other students of their age and grade level.

+ What else can cause academic difficulties?

There are many reasons that students struggle in school. Some students have difficulties with reasoning and critical thinking. Others have attention-deficits that make it harder for them to focus in class and consistently demonstrate their knowledge. Depression and anxiety also impact motivation, work completion, and performance on tests. Understanding the root cause of challenges at school is the first step in helping your child reach their potential.

+ How can a learning disabilities test help?

We use specific tests to figure out if a child’s academic skills are below expectations compared to their peers and overall ability levels, and if so, why they are struggling. This helps us recommend specific interventions that can target the skills your child needs to be a successful student. We will also rule out or identify ADHD, depression, anxiety, and other factors that can influence academic performance. At the end of the assessment process, you will have a clear picture of your child’s unique strengths and weaknesses.

+ Where do your Learning Disability Tests in Palo Alto take place?

My office is located at 630 University Avenue, Suite A, Palo Alto, California 94301. I serve Palo Alto and the surrounding areas between San Francisco and San Jose—including San Mateo, Redwood City, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, Menlo Park and Los Altos.