Learning difficulties can significantly impact a child’s self-esteem, shaping their self-image and overall emotional wellbeing. Children with learning difficulties often struggle to keep up with their peers in traditional educational settings. This struggle can lead to feelings of inadequacy, frustration, and a sense of failure, particularly when comparing themselves to classmates who seem to grasp concepts more easily.
The constant challenges they face in academics can lead to negative self-talk and a belief that they are "not smart enough". As a result, children with learning difficulties may withdraw from social situations, avoid participating in activities they once enjoyed, or even suffer from anxiety and depression.
Early intervention can play a crucial role in helping children with learning difficulties build self-esteem and avoid the negative impacts that often accompany these challenges. Providing evidence based interventions helps address specific learning challenges, allowing children to experience success and improve their skills. This success can boost their self-esteem. Early intervention can also reduce the likelihood of children being mis labelled as "problematic" or "difficult," which can lead to low self-esteem. Instead, they can be seen as learners with unique needs who are receiving appropriate help.
Fiona Higgins, founder of Ardú Learning, is an accredited dyslexia and learning specialist with the British Dyslexia Association and a member of the Orton-Gillingham Academy. Ardú Learning offers personalised support for children aged four to 16, screenings and parent consultations. For more information, visit www.ardulearning.ie or contact Fiona Higgins at [email protected] or 087 639 44 36 from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
