Resources / Articles / Understanding childhood disorders
Understanding childhood disorders
About this article
This information is for guidance only and should not be considered medical advice — diagnosis should be made by qualified professionals. It is based primarily on the WHO's ICD-11, is not exhaustive, and should be read in the context of cultural and local realities. All content has been checked and approved by psychiatrists and/or psychologists.
Neurodevelopmental disorders are a group of disorders that affect the way the brain develops and functions. They can be caused by genetic factors, environmental factors, or a combination of both. Understanding them matters — for parents, for teachers, and for the children themselves.
Autism
Autism is a developmental disorder that affects social interactions, communication, and behaviour. People with autism often have restricted interests and repetitive behaviours and may have difficulty connecting with other humans.
ADHD
ADHD (Attention Deficit Disorder with or without Hyperactivity) is a neurobiological developmental disorder that can affect a person's ability to regulate their attention, behaviour, and activity level.
The information should always be considered in the context of cultural and local realities.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a learning disorder that affects a person's ability to read and interpret words, letters, and symbols.
Dyscalculia
Dyscalculia is a learning disability that affects a person's ability to understand and work with numbers. It can be difficult for individuals with dyscalculia to perform tasks that involve math, such as calculating basic arithmetic or understanding money.
Dyspraxia
Dyspraxia is a neurological disorder that affects the planning and execution of movements and actions. It can affect a person's ability to perform daily tasks such as dressing, writing, eating, and moving.
Tourette syndrome
Tourette Syndrome is a developmental disorder characterised by the presence of recurrent and involuntary motor and vocal tics. Tics can be simple (such as eye blinking or coughing) or complex (such as jumping or saying vulgar words).
Learning disability
A learning disability or disorder is a condition that affects how a person learns, understands, and uses information. Learning disabilities can be related to reading, writing, math, oral comprehension, or other academic skills.