RESOURCES
Specific Learning Disorder/Disability
While the DSM-5-TR defines Specific Learning Disorder as a clinical, neurodevelopmental diagnosis made by a licensed professional to address cognitive processing deficits that impede foundational academic skills (reading, writing, and math), Specific Learning Disability is a legal and educational eligibility category defined under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that refers to psychological processing deficits impairing language use, communication, literacy, or mathematical calculations.
Structured Literacy
Palmetto Assessments and Learning Services advocates for literacy as a fundamental right, achieved through evidence-based instruction aligned with the Science of Reading and delivered via Structured Literacy. Because reading and writing must be explicitly taught—unlike spoken language—we champion systematic, research-backed instruction in key skills like phonology and syntax. Recognizing that many school curricula lack scientific backing, we partner with parents, equipping them with the knowledge and resources needed to advocate effectively for their child’s literacy success.
Dyscalculia
Dyscalculia is a specific learning disorder that impairs an individual's ability to understand, learn, and perform number-based operations. Varying in severity and often co-occurring with other learning disabilities, it manifests as difficulties with basic arithmetic, number sense, memorizing math facts, time comprehension, and spatial reasoning.
Dysgraphia
Dysgraphia is a specific learning disorder that impairs coherent and legible writing, varying in severity and often co-occurring with other learning disabilities. It manifests as handwriting, spelling, and organizational difficulties, driven by either fine motor skill deficits in forming letters or cognitive challenges in planning and structuring written work.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a neurodevelopmental specific learning disorder caused by a core phonological deficit—an impairment in processing speech sounds—rather than a visual deficiency. This deficit hinders phonemic awareness, a critical precursor to mastering the alphabetic principle, resulting in severe difficulties with word-level reading (often termed a "Word-Level Reading Disability"). While dyslexia is not a standalone eligibility category under IDEA, students who do not respond to general instruction may qualify for special education services under the "Specific Learning Disability" category or receive accommodations via a Section 504 Plan. Beyond providing a formal diagnosis, our evaluations pinpoint the precise reading skills a child lacks to design a highly targeted, individualized instructional plan.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a diverse developmental disability affecting communication, social interaction, and behavior, typically emerging before age three. Characterized by a wide range of intellectual abilities, ASD often involves repetitive behaviors, resistance to routine changes, and sensory processing differences. Recognized both as a clinical diagnosis (DSM-5-TR) and an educational eligibility category (IDEA), ASD is best supported through early intervention, individualized therapies, and inclusive practices that empower individuals to reach their full potential.
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that impairs academic, occupational, and social functioning. Affecting both children and adults, its presentation varies: some individuals experience primary inattention, others primary hyperactivity-impulsivity, and some a combination of both. Common challenges include difficulty focusing, organizing, and managing time, alongside restlessness and impulsivity.