Nonverbal learning disorder (NVLD) is a learning disability that causes difficulty with motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. Children with NVLD are often well-spoken and can write well, but struggle with subtle social cues and comprehension of abstract concepts.1
Symptoms
The symptoms of a nonverbal learning disorder are not easy to pinpoint because each child might react differently, and not exhibit all of them. The signs and symptoms are different from one child to another.
A child with Non-Verbal Learning Disorder- NVLD- has difficulty with reading comprehension and word math problems that require spatial visualization and pattern recognition.
Students with NVLD have a poor sense of direction and struggle to count money. Deficits in fine and gross motor skills can lead to trouble with handwriting, using scissors and other tools, riding a bicycle, or participating in sports; other children may see them as clumsy.
Socially, some children with NVLD have trouble recognizing the nonverbal cues of body language and facial expressions. Social skills that others learn by observation may not come easily, although verbal instruction may help. Some of these social struggles are a byproduct of their deficits: As they may rely on the spoken word for social information, they may ask questions incessantly, or interrupt others, frustrating teachers and peers. They can also be highly literal, and so they may not recognize sarcasm, humor, or other verbal nuances.
Behaviorally, a resistance to change, a lack of so-called “common sense,” fear of new situations, poor “big picture” comprehension, failure to respect personal space, and an inability to consistently recognize when “enough is enough” are all traits associated with a nonverbal learning disorder, and all can make it difficult to meet new people and make friends.
Causes
Nonverbal learning disorder is thought to be related to a deficit in the right cerebral hemisphere of the brain, where nonverbal processing occurs.
Since children with NVLD tend to be of average or above-average intelligence, some develop systems, including rote memories of past experiences, to guide them toward acceptable behavior in new situations rather than responding organically to specific social cues.
Treatment
There is no single recommended treatment plan for nonverbal learning disorder. As with any learning disorder, however, children are best served by early intervention and support, which often includes occupational therapy. Talk therapy can benefit children experiencing social struggles. Left unaddressed, the condition can lead to lifelong challenges.
Support in School
After observation and an initial assessment to determine a child’s specific needs, school-based professionals can put a plan into place for both social and academic accommodations that can create an environment for improvement. These interventions may include extra practice time for developing skills in pattern recognition and organizing thoughts, or counseling to help a child better understand social expectations. NVLD is not covered by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), so children may not always qualify for an Individualized Education Program, but teachers and administrators aware of an individual student’s struggles can still work with families to make accommodations and offer extra assistance to help them manage their academic workload.