Common Characteristics of a Child with a Learning Disability
(several or all may be present)

1. Overactive, distracted, tense, or disturbed
2. Short attention span
3. Avoids work requiring concentrated attention
4. Cannot correctly recall oral directions
5. Confuses left and right
6. Trouble telling time
7. Seems immature and does not act his/her age
8. Awkward or hesitant in motor activities
9. Demands much attention during classroom or family activities and often is the problem member of a tense, unhappy family with concerned, bewildered parents who try to help but are frustrated in all efforts and do not know which way to turn
10. Inconsistency in quality of performance from day to day or hour to hour
11. Slow to finish most or all work
12. Reads slowly, omits words, loses place, or substitutes words when reading aloud
13. Points at words while reading, unable to sound out words, or trouble with comprehension
14. Does poorly on spelling tests in spite of preparation
15. Difficulty with arithmetic and number concepts
16. Reverses and/or rotates letters, numbers and words when reading or writing
17. Poor handwriting or drawing
18. Seems brighter than school performance reflects
19. Has trouble organizing and seems scatterbrained and confused at times. 
    

Note: These characteristics only apply to children at least seven years or older.