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Modern Architecture

Learning and Intellectual Disability

Learning & Intellectual Disability

Learning Disability, also known as Intellectual Disability, relates to difficulties in general mental abilities affecting learning, problem solving and activities of daily life such as communication and independent living.

The severity of intellectual disability is based on the impact of everyday functioning and can be classified as:

  • Mild

  • Moderate

  • Severe

  • Profound

 

Causes

Causes of intellectual disability:

  • Infections 

  • Chromosomal abnormalities 

  • Metabolic 

  • Nutritional 

  • Toxic 

  • Trauma including birth asphyxia

  • Environmental 

  • Unexplained: remains the most common cause

Management

Management of learning disability depends on the underlying cause and needs of the child and young person.

Holistic early intervention and support remain the main management strategy.

Reasonable adjustments to meet the Special Education Needs should be considered.

Education Health and Care Plan assessment should be considered when all other measures have not been successful in meeting the child or young people's needs.

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