It is not uncommon for ADHD and learning differences to co-occur. Children and teens with ADHD often face challenges in many areas of Executive Functioning, which can already significantly impact their ability to learn in traditional educational settings. Learning differences can add layers of complexity to academic tasks, making it even harder for them to thrive without support. The overlap often creates a unique profile of strengths and challenges that requires a comprehensive, individualized approach.
Examples of Common Learning Issues
Learning issues such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia are frequently seen alongside ADHD. Here is how you differentiate one from the other:
- Dysgraphia affects a child’s writing skills. It might present as messy handwriting, difficulty organizing thoughts into writing, or trouble with spelling and grammar. Some studies show dysgraphia affecting 59% of children with ADHD.
- Dyslexia is characterized by difficulty in reading. Children with dyslexia may struggle with decoding words, recognizing sight words, or reading fluently. They might also refuse when asked to read aloud.
For ADHD and dyslexia, 25 to 40% of individuals diagnosed with one also have the other. This overlap can amplify challenges at school, as children may struggle with multiple areas of learning simultaneously.
- Giftedness, while not a learning disability, is also frequently co-occurring with ADHD, coming in at 16% of the gifted population having ADHD compared to only 8% in the national average.
- Subtle signs of learning issues can include frequent frustration during homework or avoiding school-related tasks altogether. These issues often overlap with ADHD, making it harder to identify the root causes without professional evaluation.
How to Support a Child with ADHD and a Learning Issue
1. Getting a Diagnosis
The first step in supporting your child is obtaining a diagnosis for both ADHD and any suspected learning differences if you have not already. This process often involves evaluations from specialists such as a school psychologist or a private neuropsychologist. A thorough assessment helps clarify your child’s specific needs and provides the foundation for targeted interventions. Diagnoses can also guide teachers and other professionals in creating effective support plans.
2. Specialized Learning Support
Once your child is diagnosed, you should consider finding specialized professionals to provide strategies for specific learning issues. For example:
- Reading specialists can work with children struggling with dyslexia to improve decoding, fluency, and comprehension skills.
- Math interventionists can support children with dyscalculia by teaching strategies to understand and apply mathematical concepts.
- Assistive technologies, such as text-to-speech software, audiobooks, and speech recognition tools, can make written information more accessible for children with reading or writing difficulties.
3. Executive Function Coaching
For ADHD, Executive Function Coaching is highly recommended for children with ADHD and learning disabilities. Coaches work on skills like time management, organization, planning, and task initiation – areas where children with these challenges may struggle. For example, a coach might teach your child strategies to address procrastination, help them create a study schedule, and work as an accountability partner. This type of support can make a big difference in helping children manage their schoolwork and develop lifelong skills.
4. School Support through an IEP or 504
Contact your child’s school to request an evaluation for services. If your child is eligible, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan can provide accommodations and support to address their unique needs. Examples include:
- Extra time on tests and assignments
- Access to assistive technology
- One-on-one support for specific subjects
- Modified instructions or alternative assessment methods
An IEP helps level the playing field, allowing your child to access education in a way that aligns with their abilities and challenges. If your child does not qualify for an IEP, a 504 Plan can still provide accommodations, though it may not include the same range of specialized services.
What Can HabitCoach Do?
HabitCoach specializes in helping children with ADHD and learning issues by providing strategies to improve Executive Function skills. Our coaches work with your child to develop habits that support organization, time management, and emotional regulation. Whether it’s breaking down homework into smaller steps, learning how to prioritize tasks, or practicing emotion regulation techniques, HabitCoach offers practical solutions to help your child thrive at school and home. HabitCoach is one of the few organizations who have resources to treat both learning issues and ADHD; many of the coaches at HabitCoach, are equally trained in academic tutoring and Executive Function coaching.
