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Although a wide variety of research has been conducted, there has not been one particular cause or prevention method found for learning disabilities. Experts have come to the agreement that it is likely a combination of social, physical, environmental, and social factors that trigger the onset of a learning disability. This, in turn, requires that a wide variety of prevention methods be utilized.

The way in which people around a child communicate can have a positive or negative effect on a child's likelihood to develop a learning disability. Numerous studies have suggested that children who are born into homes or families with a high stress level are more likely to develop a learning disability than those who are born into homes with solid communication and problem solving skills. According to Yale's Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychology, when children are under severe stress for long periods of time their brain physically suffers. Neurons, receptors, and other elements of the brain either die or cease to function adequately. This not only causes physical symptoms such as fatigue, but it also inhibits memory and other mental processes such as comprehension. Providing babies and toddlers with a variety of stimulation is a positive way to promote brain development and prevent future learning disorders.

There may also be numerous ways to prevent physical causes of learning disabilities. The avoidance of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs during pregnancy along with solid nutrition are suspected as the first steps in prevention. Researchers have observed that children born with low birth weight are found to be more likely to acquire learning disabilities than those who are born with a healthy weight. Vitamin or mineral deficiencies, food allergies and the consumption of food high in sugar are known to cause anxiousness, depression, and hyperactivity. These symptoms may easily lead to the development of learning disabilities. Eliminating hearing and vision problems at an early stage is also a good method of prevention. There are also believed to be causes such as biochemical imbalances, genetics, and birth injuries or infection which are, unfortunately, completely unpreventable.

The environment in which a child lives may also have a profound effect on his or her ability to learn. With the rise in the use of various hormones, pesticides, and other chemicals in food production, studies have found that learning disabilities are also on the rise. Chemicals such as solvents, PCB's, lead, and mercury are thought to have some of the most serious effects on children. It is also believed that chemicals found in clothing, house wares, and even the pollution in the air are also contributing factors Try to purchase foods and other household products that are natural and organic as often as possible. Growing your own fruits and vegetables is another viable option.

Prevention methods are not guaranteed to work, but using numerous techniques may be beneficial. Experts agree that even if these methods do not prevent learning disabilities, it is expected that they will lessen the severity of them. In generally, the best prevention method is to bring children up as healthy as possible in a caring and loving home and deal with whatever the future brings with patience and understanding.

Learn more about this author, Angie Haggstrom.
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