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Is ADHD a Learning Disability?

Oct 10, 2024
 
 

Is ADHD a Learning Disability?

 

Is ADHD a Learning Disability?

No, ADHD is not classified as a learning disability, but it may make learning more challenging.

Though ADHD is not categorized as a learning disability, research shows that 30-50% of children with ADHD also have a specific learning disability, making learning even more challenging. The interaction between these conditions can further complicate academic achievement.

ADHD Definition:

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the brain’s prefrontal cortex, the area responsible for managing thoughts and behaviors.

Learning Impact of ADHD:

While ADHD doesn’t directly affect academic skills like reading, writing, or math, it can impact executive function. This means difficulties with planning, organization, and maintaining focus, which are critical for learning.
Further, under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), ADHD can be considered a disability, potentially making students eligible for special education services and/or accommodations.

 

Supporting Students with ADHD: The Impact of Targeted InstructionADHD learning disability support

Many students with ADHD face unique challenges when it comes to learning. While ADHD is not classified as a learning disability, its effects on executive functioning—such as difficulties with focus, planning, and organization—can make academic achievement more difficult. This is particularly true for students who also struggle with decoding and language comprehension.

At Lindamood-Bell, we’ve seen firsthand how targeted instruction can make a significant difference for students with these dual challenges. For example, students with a prior ADHD diagnosis who experienced both decoding and language comprehension difficulties were provided with Seeing Stars® and Visualizing and Verbalizing® instruction. The results were remarkable: these students achieved substantial improvements in both decoding and comprehension. In fact, they made large (statistically significant) standard score gains on eight of nine measures.

One particularly encouraging outcome was a 27-point increase in percentile rank for Word Recognition and a 20-point increase in Written Language Comprehension, placing these students well within the normal range (25th-75th percentile). This demonstrates how the right instructional approach can help students with ADHD not only overcome their learning obstacles but thrive academically.

While ADHD itself may not affect specific academic skills, the way it interacts with other learning difficulties—like those involving decoding and comprehension—requires a comprehensive approach. With the right support, including specialized instruction and effective strategies, students with ADHD can achieve meaningful and lasting progress in their academic journeys.

 

Students with a prior ADHD diagnosis who had both decoding and language comprehension difficulties received both Seeing Stars and Visualizing and Verbalizing instruction. These students achieved significant improvements in decoding and comprehension. They made large (statistically significant) standard score changes on eight of nine measures.

Years: Jan. 2008 – Dec. 2023

Number of Students: 2,136

Average Age: 11.9

Average Hours of Instruction: 155.4

Lindamood-Bell Instruction Implemented: Seeing Stars and Visualizing and Verbalizing

 

Lindamood-Bell: Supporting Students with ADHD and Learning Challenges

Instruction for ADHD and learning disabilities

At Lindamood-Bell, we specialize in helping students overcome challenges related to ADHD and other learning difficulties. Our evidence-based programs, such as Seeing Stars for decoding and Visualizing and Verbalizing for comprehension, have been proven to significantly improve academic performance. We believe that every student, regardless of their diagnosis, can learn to their full potential with the right kind of instruction.

With nearly 40 years of experience, we’ve helped students of all ages make remarkable progress in reading, comprehension, and overall learning. Whether a student is struggling with focus, planning, or understanding complex material, our sensory-cognitive instruction is designed to target and strengthen the specific learning and literacy skills that provide the foundation for success.

If your child faces challenges related to ADHD or other learning difficulties, Lindamood-Bell offers individualized instruction to support their success. Our programs are available both in-person and online, providing families with flexibility without compromising quality. The first step is a comprehensive Learning Ability Evaluation, which identifies your child’s strengths and areas of need. Based on the results, we recommend either 1-to-1 instruction or enrollment in Lindamood-Bell Academy. This personalized approach targets the root causes of learning difficulties, helping your child thrive. Schedule a Learning Ability Evaluation today to start their journey to success.

Discover more on our website or contact us today to learn how we can help your child thrive academically. Call 800-233-1819 to get started!

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🌞 Now Hiring for Summer!
Are you energetic, positive, and passionate about helping students succeed? Join Lindamood-Bell as a tutor (clinician) and make a difference this summer!
📚 What You’ll Do:
 —Teach students of all ages to read and comprehend to their potential
 —Receive paid training in our evidence-based approach
 —Work in a fun, supportive learning environment
🌟 Apply today and be part of something meaningful! View our open positions at the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Is your child facing challenges in reading, comprehension, or math? Our evidence-based instruction can help them catch up or get ahead.
✅ Personalized one-on-one sessions tailored to your child’s needs
✅ Available in-person or live online for flexibility
✅ Proven success with students facing learning challenges like dyslexia, autism, and ADHD
👉 Visit our website to learn more and take the first step toward your child’s success!
Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial
📚 Small Groups, Big Impact! ✨
👩‍🏫 For Educators: Small-group instruction allows you to give targeted support, increase student engagement, and tailor lessons to individual needs.
👨‍👩‍👧 For Parents: At Lindamood-Bell Learning Centers, your child can get the same great results at over 40% off individual instruction! 🎯 Our small-group instruction offers high-quality, evidence-based learning at a more affordable price.
Discover why small groups are a game-changer! Read more at the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Make a Difference This Summer! 🌞📚
Looking for a rewarding summer job? Lindamood-Bell is hiring enthusiastic and positive individuals to work as clinicians (tutors)! Join our team and help students build essential learning skills in a supportive, engaging environment.
If you’re passionate about education and ready to make an impact, apply today!
View Open Positions - Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
🎧 New Podcast Episode Alert! 🎧
In this inspiring episode, we meet Ben, a student whose life was transformed by Lindamood-Bell instruction. Once the kid everyone laughed at during read-alouds, Ben shares his powerful journey of overcoming school challenges and gaining confidence. With Lindamood-Bell’s support, he not only improved his reading and comprehension but also cleared the path toward his dream career in the culinary arts! 🍴✨
Don’t miss Ben’s heartfelt story of resilience and success—tune in now! 🎙️ Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Attention, Teachers! 🎓 At Lindamood-Bell, our evidence-based approach helps educators develop their students' essential sensory-cognitive skills, laying the foundation for lasting academic success. Discover how our unique multi-sensory techniques can elevate your teaching and unlock student potential! Link in bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Make an Impact This Summer – We're Hiring at Lindamood-Bell!

Looking for a meaningful summer job? Join our team and help students build learning skills and confidence! We're hiring enthusiastic, positive individuals to work in our learning centers. As a Clinician (Tutor), you'll receive paid training using our proven, evidence-based approach!

📌 Apply today and make a difference!
🔗 View our open positions and get started! Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Experience a school that fits your child’s unique learning needs! 🌟 Lindamood-Bell Academy is a K-12 private school that combines our renowned sensory-cognitive instruction with a personalized curriculum and a supportive learning environment. With the flexibility to attend online or in person, students can thrive in a way that works best for them! 🎓✨ Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoobellofficial.
Did you know some people can’t visualize images in their minds? This condition, known as aphantasia, affects an estimated 2-5% of the population.
At Lindamood-Bell, we use evidence-based instruction to help students of all ages develop concept imagery—the ability to create mental images. Learn more about aphantasia and how we support students.
🔗 Read the full article at the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Help your child build skills and confidence with Lindamood-Bell! 
Our evidence-based instruction helps learners of all ages improve reading, comprehension, and math, whether online or in person.

🌟 Limited-Time Offer: Enroll now and save 10% on live online instruction!
Don’t wait—give your child the tools to succeed today! 💻📚 Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
We’re Hiring for Summer!

Looking for a rewarding summer job? Join our learning centers as a Clinician (Tutor) and help students thrive. Enjoy paid training in our proven, evidence-based approach. Apply today! Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
The Science of Reading is transforming literacy instruction—but is it enough?

At Lindamood-Bell, we integrate the Cognitive Science of Learning to strengthen the sensory-cognitive skills crucial for fluent reading and comprehension. Our evidence-based approach develops symbol imagery for decoding and concept imagery for understanding—key components often overlooked in traditional literacy methods.

Visit our blog to explore the Science of Reading and discover how the Cognitive Science of Learning sets Lindamood-Bell apart. 
Link in bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Join Us This Summer—We're Hiring!
Looking for a meaningful summer job? Our learning centers are seeking enthusiastic, positive individuals to help students thrive. As a Clinician (Tutor), you'll receive paid training in our proven, evidence-based programs.
Explore our open positions and apply today!
Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
📢 Roan and Sammy’s Story Featured in People Magazine!

Roan, a student with dyslexia, was determined to learn to read so he could share stories with his beloved service dog, Sammy. With Lindamood-Bell’s online instruction, he turned that dream into reality! 🐶📖✨

Now, their heartwarming journey is inspiring readers everywhere. ❤️
Read more on our blog, including the latest People magazine feature. Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
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