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Dyslexia - SPELD Foundation
Literacy & Clinical Services
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Learning difficulties
Learning Difficulties
An overview of learning difficulties and specific learning disorders
Dyslexia
A specific learning disability in reading is commonly called dyslexia.
Dysgraphia
Dysgraphia can appear as difficulties with spelling and/or trouble putting thoughts on paper.
Dyscalculia
A learning disorder related to mathematics is commonly referred to as Dyscalculia
Other disorders that can affect learning
Information regarding other conditions that can affect learning
Families
Families
Information and advice for parents and carers of children with learning difficulties
When should a child be assessed?
Information on the assessment and diagnosis of learning disorders
What is involved in an assessment?
Information on the assessment and diagnosis of learning disorders
How can families support children?
Information on how parents can assist and support their children in all aspects of learning
Where can I learn more about learning disorders?
Adults
Adults
An overview of learning difficulties in adults and support options
Can adults have learning disorders?
Information on how learning disorders can affect adults in the workplace and when undertaking further education
When should an adult be assessed?
Information on the assessment and diagnosis of learning disorders
What support is available for adults?
Information on how DSF can assist and support you and what provisions can be made in the workplace and when completing further studies
Where can I learn more about learning disorders?
Professionals
Professionals
Information for professionals working with individuals with learning difficulties
Schools
Services and information for schools and educational organisations
Teachers and Tutors
Advice and information for teachers.
Allied Health Professionals
Information for Speech Pathologists and Psychologists
Resources
Free Resources
Download free resources for all ages
DSF developed resources
Learn more about our specifically designed literacy resources
Resources for Families
Access a variety of free resources to to assist families with children learning from home
Online store
Purchase books, activities and other literacy tools from the DSF online store.
DSF Library
Search and borrow items from the DSF library.
News
Access our News updates and e-alerts
Our Services
Workshops and Events
Find out about upcoming events for parents, students and professionals.
Online Learning
Learn more out our Understanding Learning Difficulties e-Learning course
Clinical Services
Consultations, speech pathology and other assessments.
Tutoring
DSF maintains a register of qualified specialist tutors for children and adults.
DSF Literacy Clinics
Individual and small-group tutoring for students in Perth and Albany.
Dyslexia - SPELD Foundation
Literacy & Clinical Services
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Learning difficulties
Learning Difficulties
Dyslexia
Dysgraphia
Dyscalculia
Other disorders that can affect learning
Families
Families
When should a child be assessed?
What is involved in an assessment?
How can families support children?
Where can I learn more about learning disorders?
Adults
Adults
Can adults have learning disorders?
When should an adult be assessed?
What support is available for adults?
Where can I learn more about learning disorders?
Professionals
Professionals
Schools
Teachers and Tutors
Allied Health Professionals
Resources
Free Resources
DSF developed resources
Resources for Families
Online store
DSF Library
News
Our Services
Workshops and Events
Online Learning
Clinical Services
Tutoring
DSF Literacy Clinics
Who we are
Become a member
Contact
Search
Our Services
Counselling
Clinical Services
Consultations
Assessments
Speech Pathology Services
Counselling
Clever Kids Program
Clinical Services
In this section
Clinical Services overview
Consultations
Assessments
Speech Pathology Services
Counselling
Clever Kids Program
The problems associated with a specific learning disorder can often extend far beyond difficulties with academic skills, and the psychological effects can be far reaching.
Having a learning disorder or difficulty can be very challenging. Not only does it affect a student's academic performance, it can also have a long lasting effect on a student's emotional and psychological development. Apart from the everyday struggles with classroom learning, many students with learning disorders report higher levels of frustration, anxiety and stress. These students may also have a lower self-opinion, feel sad and depressed, lack motivation to attend school or experience persistent social difficulties. While not all children with a specific learning disorder will experience mental health issues, there is evidence that suggests that children with learning difficulties are more vulnerable to experiencing a lower self-esteem along with a higher rate of anxiety and depression.
Many children will experience short periods of frustration and anxiety throughout their schooling, particularly as they transition from primary to secondary school, or when dealing with normal life demands. However, for some children this extends for a much longer period of time and may require additional support. For children experiencing a mental health problem alongside a learning disorder, it is important that they receive the necessary level of support and intevention with a Psychologist or suitable therapist. If you feel that your child (or yourself) may require extra support to develop their emotional well-being, a good place to start is to speak to your family doctor (GP) or the school psychologist. They should be able to refer you to a Psychologist or suitable therapist for support.
Counselling at DSF
DSF offers several options for support including individualised counselling and a group program aimed at improving the self esteem and resiliency of primary school-aged children.
To access individualised counselling at DSF, initial contact should be made through our South Perth Office. Medicare rebates are available with a valid referral and GP mental health care plan.
To access our group program, an expression of interest can be sent via our events page. Please check our calendar of events for details of our next group program.
More Information
Clever Kids
Learn More about our group program for improving self-esteem and resiliency
Contact Us
Contact us to book an appointment with our counselling service
View Calendar
View our calendar for details of our next clever kids program
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