Some Parents in Nigeria struggle with the fear that something might be “wrong” with their child—but they don’t know where to start or who to talk to. If a child is falling behind in school, is unable to read or write adequately for his or her age, seems to forget things easily, it might not be “laziness” or “bad character.” It could be a learning disability—and getting the right diagnosis is the first step to getting help.

This brief write up will attempt to walk you through how to diagnose learning problems in children, where to go, what to expect, and how to avoid wasting time and money on unhelpful options.

What Is Learning Disability?

Learning disability is a condition that affects how a child processes and understands information. These disabilities do not mean the child is unintelligent, but they often require different teaching methods or support strategies.

Common types include:

• Dyslexia – Trouble with reading and spelling

• ADHD – Difficulty focusing, staying still, or completing tasks

• Dyscalculia – Problems with numbers and basic math

• Auditory Processing Disorder – Difficulty understanding spoken words

• Nonverbal Learning Disabilities – Struggles with body language, spatial awareness, or social cues

Early Signs to Look Out For

Every child is different, but some common red flags include:

• Not recognizing letters or numbers at age 5–6

• Avoiding reading or writing tasks

• Mixing up words or letters often (e.g., “b” and “d”)

• Trouble following instructions or completing homework

• Easily distracted, restless, or hyperactive

• Difficulty with basic math even after lots of practice

• Trouble remembering what was just taught

If your child shows two or more of these signs consistently, it may be time to seek a diagnosis.

Why Getting a Diagnosis Matters

Sometimes parents may wait too long. A child struggles for years while parents and teachers try punishment, prayer, extra lessons, and even herbal remedies. Meanwhile, the child is losing confidence, falling further behind, and being mislabeled as “lazy” or “spoilt.”

Quick professional diagnosis:

• Gives the child access to tailored support

• Helps teachers understand how to teach the child

• Opens the door to accommodations (extra time in exams, simpler instructions, etc.)

• Boosts the child’s self-esteem and mental health

Step-by-Step: How to Diagnose a Learning Disability in Nigeria

1. Start with the school

If the child attends a private school, ask a teacher for feedback about their behavior, academic performance, and any learning struggles they’ve noticed.

Some schools have guidance counselors or special education teachers who can suggest next steps or help with referrals.

2. Visit a Pediatrician or Family Doctor

A basic medical check-up helps rule out hearing or vision issues that could affect learning. Some children seem inattentive or slow simply because they may not hear or see clearly.

The Pediatrician or Family Doctor may then refer you to a developmental pediatrician, child psychologist, or speech and language therapist for further assessment.

3. Get a professional educational or psychological assessment

This is the most important step in getting a formal diagnosis. A qualified psychologist or special education expert will test your child’s:

• IQ and cognitive strengths

• Reading, writing, and math skills

• Attention span and memory

• Social and emotional behavior

• Language comprehension and expression

After this, a written report with diagnosis (if applicable) will be given , and recommendations made on how the child may be helped.

Where can one get a diagnosis in Nigeria?

Here are some trusted places where parents in Nigeria can get professional help:

• Patrick Speech and Languages Centre

• The Zamar Institute

• Olive Blooms Orphanage

• BSA Hearing and Speech Centre

One can also reach out to teaching hospitals, university psychology departments, or look for mobile assessment teams that visit multiple cities.

How Much Does It Cost?

Diagnosis is not yet cheap or widespread in Nigeria, but options exist for different budgets:

• School-based evaluations: Sometimes free or low-cost in well-funded private schools

• Private clinics: ₦50,000 to ₦150,000 depending on complexity

• Online assessments: From ₦30,000 depending on provider and location

• Some NGOs and churches offer free or subsidized screenings during awareness campaigns

Tip: Ask for a written report and detailed recommendations you can share with your child’s school.

Common mistakes to avoid

1. Avoid reliance on prayers only or herbal remedies

Prayer is important, but it should not replace professional help. A significant number of children are delayed because their condition was misdiagnosed as a spiritual issue only.

2. Avoid comparisons between children

Every child has a unique learning style. Avoid statements like “At this age, your brother was already reading books.” This damages your child’s self-worth.

3. Avoid delay once the signs are evident

Earlier diagnosis may enable quicker interventions and possibly better the outcomes. As early intervention may help children catch up faster and build their confidence.

What to do after diagnosis

• Meet with the school: Share the report and create a plan together.

• Find a tutor or therapist: Someone experienced with your child’s specific needs (e.g., speech therapy, reading intervention).

• Join a support group: Communities like “Special Needs Support Nigeria” on Facebook or WhatsApp groups help with advice and emotional support.

• Stay consistent: Diagnosis is just the beginning. Real progress comes from regular support at home and school.

Changing the mindset

Getting a diagnosis for a learning disability is not admitting failure, it should be viewed as giving the child a chance to succeed. Parents should begin to see the above conditions as challenges that can be overcome.

Normalization of discussions about learning problems may help more children get the help needed timously.