Nonverbal Learning Disorders – Causes, Signs, and Accommodations

In the United States, 3 to 4 percent of children live with some type of nonverbal learning disorder (NVLD), which refers to a cluster of symptoms that impact social interactions, physical abilities, and learning. Like autism, NVLD is a spectrum disorder, and symptoms can range from mild to profound.

Children with NVLD may have difficulty reading non-verbal cues or relaying information in a relatable way. They may perseverate on a specific subject or topic. Children with NVLD also display poor coordination and can have underdeveloped fine and gross motor skills.

Children with NVLD also have notable strengths. For example, many such children are adept at learning new vocabulary and mimicking the language of older people. They also excel in rote memorization and display strong attention to detail. While NVLD is a lifelong condition, learned coping strategies help people with this disorder live productive, fulfilling lives.

As many of the challenges of NVLD are not noticeable until a child is required to complete more complex academic tasks, many children are not diagnosed until around fifth grade. However, some children with NVLD do exhibit difficulties with writing letters and sounding out words.

While researchers continue to investigate the causes of NVLD, some evidence has suggested that the disorder may be related to neurological abnormalities. Children with NVLD have difficulty processing visual and sensorial information, which is managed by the right side of the brain. These abnormalities may occur due to complications during pregnancy or an illness in early infancy. Children with NVLD often have another diagnosis, such as autism or ADHD. They also have a higher risk of developing anxiety. The disorder affects both genders equally.

Since NVLD overlaps with other learning disorders, assessing NVLD requires a professional evaluation. However, there are several signs that can indicate that a child may have NVLD. For example, a child with NVLD can read a paragraph fluidly but will have difficulty identifying the main idea or central theme. These children may also have issues solving math problems that involve several steps or formulas.

Socially, children with NVLD often have strained relationships with their peers. They may misread facial expressions or interpret figurative language literally. Over time, children with NVLD may avoid in-person socializing and prefer interacting through video games, chat, and other types of virtual platforms.

Children with NVLD can thrive with therapeutic and academic support. Physical therapy can improve coordination and balance. Other forms of occupational therapy, such as sensory integration, can help the brain process visual and tactile information.

Play and group therapy give children with NVLD the opportunity to practice socializing with their peers. As these children have strong memories, they can apply the skills they learn from these scaffolded interactions to bond with their classmates.

In classroom settings, students with NVLD can benefit from accommodations such as clear, written directions, adapted assignments, and additional time. Since these students often have difficulty with organization and planning, teachers should provide tools like rubrics and schedules that clearly outline timelines and expectations. Schools should also create a quiet break room or space that is accessible to students at all times.

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