Frequently Asked Questions
What are Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD)
The term refers to a difference or difficulty with particular aspects of learning.
The most common SpLDS are dyslexia, dyspraxia, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyscalculia and dysgraphia.
An individual may have one of these independently, or they can co-exist as part of a wider profile.
What is Dyspraxia?
‘Dyspraxia’ or developmental co-ordination disorder is recognised by the majority of people used to explain a range of movement difficulties.
Dyspraxia affects the planning of what to do and how to do it. It is associated with problems of perception, language and thought.
Click here for more information.
What is Dyscalculia?
Dyscalculia ‘number dyslexia’
4-6% of the population have dyscalculia. It’s hard to diagnose and to define what to test because much affects maths ability, and therefore, there is a lot to measure. Is it a single deficit or combined with other SpLDs? Is it maths with dyslexia or dyscalculia? Knowledge and understanding of the number system is the difference. The spectrum ranges from mild to severe i.e. a bright child who is average with maths.
Click here for more information.
​
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a diverse condition characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity; and can have a significant impact on patients lives.
Click here for more information.
What are Visual Difficulties?
Some children experience challenges when reading or focusing on visual tasks. These may involve discomfort, unusual visual experiences, or behaviours aimed at coping. These difficulties can affect how easily they engage with learning, especially during reading or screen use.
​
Recognising the Signs
Children may show visual difficulties in one or more of these ways:​​​​​​​
How they FEEL (Visual Discomfort) | What they SEE (Visual Disturbance) | What they DO (Behavioural Response) |
|---|---|---|
Frustrated | Text going in and out of focus | Avoiding reading or turning away |
General fatigue | Seeing patterns, flickers, or colours | Using finger to keep place when reading |
Gritty or sore eyes | Words jumping or merging | Rubbing eyes frequently |
Eyestrain or tired eyes | Double vision | Squinting or screwing eyes up |
Headache | Blurred or shifting text | Holding material unusually close/far |
These behaviours often appear during sustained reading or screen time and may signal the need for further support.​​
​
​​Visual Difficulties Are Not Dyslexia
It’s important to understand that visual difficulties stem from how the eyes and visual system work, while dyslexia relates to how the brain processes language. Both can affect reading, but they require different kinds of support and assessment.
​
Why Eye Checks Matter
Eye tests help identify treatable issues like:
-
Refractive problems (e.g. needing glasses)
-
Dry eye, which is rising due to increased screen time
-
Short-sightedness (myopia), which is becoming more common in children
Even if a child has had a sight test before, regular checks every two years are recommended—or sooner if symptoms appear.​
​
What You Can Do?
-
Book regular optometrist check-ups
-
Watch for signs of visual discomfort or avoidance during reading
-
Share concerns with teachers or support staff
​
​
What is Irlen Syndrome? (Visual Stress)
Irlen Syndrome is a form of visual stress frequently found in dyslexics and leads to difficulties with fine vision tasks such as reading.
Click here for more information
​
For information on other Special Learning Difficulties: