The Power of Early Identification: Understanding Learning Disabilities This Dyslexia Awareness Month
Introduction Globally, October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, a period devoted to promoting early detection and support of learning disabilities and increasing public awareness about them. This month serves as an important reminder of the importance of recognising neurodiversity—learning disabilities, autism, and ADHD—and making sure every child receives the support they need to thrive academically and emotionally. In India, learning disabilities affect a significant portion of our school-going children— nearly 31% of school-going children, or 8.2 crore children. The Growing Reality: Learning Disabilities in India The numbers tell a compelling story. According to research, 8–16% of school-going children in India have learning disabilities; prevalence rates vary by region, ranging from 2.16% to 30.77%. Moreover, according to recent systematic reviews, approximately 8% of Indian children suffer from Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), which include dyslexia, dysgraphi...