Learning disabilities affect how a person learns to read, write, speak, and do math. They are caused by differences in the brain, most often in how it functions but also sometimes in its structure. A person can have more than one learning disability. Learning disabilities can last a person's entire life, but he or she can still be successful with the right educational support. In 2021-22, the number of students ages 3-21 who received special education and/or related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was 7.3 million, or the equivalent of 15 percent of all public school students. Among students receiving special education and/or related services, the most common category of disability was specific learning disabilities (32 percent). Learning and Developmental Disabilities Sourcebook, Second Edition begins with understanding developmental milestones and various learning and developmental challenges. It explains specific learning disabilities such as reading disorders, speech and language impairments, and nonverbal learning difficulties. Additionally, it examines common developmental disorders such as cerebral palsy, ADHD, autism, and genetic conditions. Recognizing the crucial role of support and self-reliance, it equips readers with management strategies, emphasizing the importance of fostering resilience in individuals facing these challenges. As a comprehensive guide for families, educators, and professionals, it navigates the complexities of supporting individuals with learning and developmental disabilities through early intervention, accommodations, transition planning, and independent living programs. The book concludes with additional resources related to learning and developmental disabilities. Part 1: Developmental Milestones and Learning Disabilities provides a foundational understanding of developmental milestones and learning disabilities. It begins with an in-depth look at early cognitive development, developmental monitoring, and speech and language development. It further explores how early life influences affect brain architecture and learning, culminating in a comprehensive discussion on the causes, signs, and diagnosis of learning disabilities. Part 2: Specific Types of Learning Disabilities focuses on specific learning disabilities, delving into reading disorders, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. It also examines learning disabilities in conjunction with comorbid conditions such as speech and language disorders, specific language impairment, auditory and visual processing disorders, developmental dyspraxia, and nonverbal learning disabilities. Part 3: Common Developmental Disorders That Affect Learning explains various developmental disorders that impact learning and intelligence. It covers a range of conditions, including birth defects, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, and genetic disorders, focusing on understanding these conditions and their relationship with learning disabilities. Part 4: Providing Support and Promoting Independence addresses concerns about child development and early intervention strategies, detailing support mechanisms and independence promotion. It provides guidance on educational interventions, special education processes, supports and accommodations for students, pre-employment transition services, and transition planning and programs, providing broader insight for educators, parents, and caregivers. Part 5: Living with Learning and Developmental Disabilities discusses the holistic aspect of living with learning and developmental disabilities. It focuses on transitioning to adulthood, career options, the philosophy of independent living, and aspects of sexuality and relationships. It also includes a detailed look at the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, emphasizing legal rights and support structures. Part 6: Additional Resources lists organizations that provide services for people with learning and developmental disabilities.