Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia Testing In White Bear Lake, MN

Undiagnosed learning disorders, such as dyslexia, can have severe consequences that not only impact academic performance, but can also have a negative impact socially, behaviorally, and on overall mental health. Those with undiagnosed learning disorders may be stigmatized as lazy when it comes to their education, and without proper support and accommodations, these students will likely struggle in many areas in school. The truth is most people with a learning disorder have exceptional strengths in areas such as creativity, thinking outside the box, empathy, and understanding complex concepts in high interest areas. A neuopsychological evaluation can identify if dyslexia or other learning disorders are present and highlight your child’s specific learning profile to target interventions and supports.

Dyslexia is a specific reading disorder that results in disfluent and inaccurate word reading, difficulty decoding words, and poor spelling ability. These reading difficulties arise due to neurological deficits that impact phonological awareness, or being able to hear the different sounds that make up a word. Contrary to common belief, dyslexia is not related to vision or seeing letters or words backward. Reading disorders separate from dyslexia may also be present that impact reading fluency or reading comprehension.

Dyscalculia refers to a disorder that impacts math calculation and quantitative reasoning. Those with dyscalculia may have difficulty memorizing math facts, sequencing information, performing math computations, remembering math steps and operations, and understanding quantitative concepts. Math disorders separate from dyscalculia that impact math reasoning may also be present.

Learning disorder in written expression is an impairment in written language and being able to transfer thoughts to writing. Those with a learning disorder in written expression can have difficulty with spelling, punctuation, and grammar. They may omit words, have difficulty knowing what to write, or have difficulty writing with an organized structure. Historically, dysgraphia is a term used to describe difficulties in handwriting, often due to weaknesses in fine motor coordination. More recently, the term dysgraphia is being used more broadly to include the impairments of written expression described above.

All evaluations considering specific learning disorders such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and impairment in written expression vary and are tailored to each individual, but typically include standardized academic achievement testing, intellectual and cognitive testing, interviews, observations, and a review of educational, medical and clinical records. Many factors other than a specific learning disorder can also contribute to learning difficulties and poor academic performance. These may include environmental considerations, cognitive factors not related to a learning disorder, social, emotional, or behavioral concerns, or other psychological disorders. A comprehensive evaluation is needed to determine the underlying factors contributing to learning concerns.

When the evaluation is complete, the results will be compiled into a comprehensive written report documenting the results of the testing, diagnostic impressions, and a summary of recommendations to support functioning at home, school, and the community. Dr. Hall will go through every page of the report during the feedback session, where he will summarize key findings and answer any questions you have about the results or recommendations. The report will offer insights into your child’s learning profile, cognitive functioning, and behaviors that are a valuable resource to help schools implement appropriate and effective supports for your child in the classroom. These supports can include educational interventions, RTI, MTSS, accommodations, modifications, 504 plans, and special education. Navigating the school system can be complex and Dr. Hall will clearly explain right path for your child based on their specific needs.