A learning disability is a neurological disorder that makes it difficult for someone to learn and understand certain concepts, or perform certain mental processes, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Helping a learning disabled child goes beyond just sitting down with a book or a math problem, including support, encouragement and acceptance of the disability.
Step 1
Talk with teachers and specialists about the nature of the learning disability. Research how the disability specifically affects the child's learning, and what activities, resources and teaching styles best fit that particular disability.
Step 2
Encourage healthy living practices, which can help children concentrate and minimize distractions, including hunger or fatigue, according to HelpGuide.org. Make sure children are getting a balanced diet, plenty of sleep and opportunities for regular exercise.
Step 3
Determine what type of learner, such as a visual, auditory or kinesthetic. Practice several teaching techniques with each of the different learning styles and see which one children respond to best. Use that method as much as possible when teaching to help children process information more effectively.
Step 4
Give regular encouragement or praise to children with learning disabilities. Help them understand and recognize significant accomplishments and feel good about doing them. Give small rewards for accomplishing tasks correctly within a set period of time or conquering a difficult challenge.
Step 5
Help children discover a passion or talent for something, such as a hobby or an area of learning that includes history or math. Kids who know they can excel in one area often are inspired to try harder in other, more difficult areas of learning.
Step 6
Protect kids' self-esteem by explaining that a learning disability is nothing to be ashamed of. Explain in simple terms how their brain just works differently and that it doesn't make them inferior.
