Hidden disabilities which can affect children

More than 600 people gathered in Dublin last week to learn about children with "hidden disabilities" at a conference in St Patrick's College, Drumcondra. They heard about four disabilities - dyslexia, dyspraxia, Asperger Syndrome and Attention Deficit Disorder. The aim of the conference, organised by Spectrum, an umbrella group for people with these disabilities, was to raise awareness and provide information and support. Although awareness of dyslexia has increased, delegates were particularly interested to hear about the other three conditions.

Dyspraxia is a difficulty with movement and specific aspects of learning - it's also known by other names including "clumsy child syndrome." The indications which could help a teacher recognise a child with dyspraxia include poor ball control, poor organisation, difficulty remembering instructions and bumping into things.

Asperger Syndrome is a complex disorder. Although individuals usually have normal intelligence, they have very poor social and communication skills. The condition is much more common among males than females.

Most children with Attention Deficit Disorder(ADD) and Hyperactive Attention Deficit Disorder (HADD) come to professional attention in the first few years at school. Over half of all children with ADD will have learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, language problems and difficulties with handwriting and mathematics.

The over-riding message of the conference, according to Jean Browne, educational psychologist with the Association for Children and Adults with Learning Disabilities (ACLD), which helped co-ordinate the conference, was that teachers, other professionals and parents must work together as partners. It was noted with regret by delegates that no representative from the Department of Education and Science attended the conference.

An information leaflet on Spectrum is available from ACLD, 1 Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 - fax (01) 679 0273.