According to the International Dyslexia Association (IDA), dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. Dyslexia refers to a cluster of symptoms, which result in people having difficulties with specific language skills, particularly reading. Students with dyslexia usually experience difficulties with other language skills such as spelling, writing, and pronouncing words. Dyslexia affects individuals throughout their lives; however, its impact can change at different stages in a person’s life. It is referred to as a learning disability because dyslexia can make it very difficult for a student to succeed academically in the typical instructional environment, and in its more severe forms, will qualify a student for special education, special accommodations, or extra support services.

According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental health disorders affecting children.  It is estimated that 8.5% of children and 2.5% of adults have ADHD.  ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood as the individual experiences problems with school work and/or behavioral challenges in the classroom and/or home settings.  Symptoms of ADHD include having difficulty focusing (inattention), excessive movement (hyperactivity), and impulsive behaviors.  ADHD can lead to poor self-esteem, difficulties with social functioning, and academic difficulties.  

According to Autism Speaks, Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is typically characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication.  According to the CDC (2020), it is estimated that 1 in 36 children in the US are impacted by the challenges associated with the characteristics of Autism.  Autism may be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.  Because each individual is unique, persons with Autism may exhibit individualized sets of strengths and challenges.  According to the CDC, signs of Autism can usually be recognized by 2 years of age.  Autism is often accompanied by challenges with sensory and medical issues, such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, and can impact mental health by creating challenges related to anxiety, depression, and attentional issues.  The ADOS-2 is considered to be a gold standard instrument for the direct assessment of ASD in children and adults.

A student's ability to achieve social, emotional, and cognitive milestones can be impacted by mental health.  The National Survey of Children's Health in 2016 estimated that 3.2% of US children and adolescents were effected by depression and 7.1% were diagnosed with a type of anxiety.  Currently, anxiety is the most prevalent mental health concern affecting our children.  Signs of anxiety can be displayed as early as by age 2 or 3 and are often first noticed as separation anxiety.  Anxiety may present as fear or worry, but can also make children irritable or angry.  Symptoms of anxiety can include trouble sleeping, fatigue, headaches or stomach aches.  The United States Preventive Services Taskforce states recommends screening for anxiety in children ages 8 to 18 due to the impact that it has on a child's emotional well-being and overall functioning.