Moderate Learning Difficulty (MLD)
- MLD is the most commonly identified type of SEN across all age groups
- Most children with MLD attend mainstream schools
- Children with MLD benefit enormously from consistent, patient, structured support
- Many adults with MLD live independent and fulfilling lives
What is Moderate Learning Difficulty?
Children with MLD learn at a slower pace than most children their age across all areas of the curriculum. They may find it harder to understand new concepts, remember information, and develop skills in reading, writing, and maths.
This doesn't mean they can't learn — every child with MLD makes progress, and with patient, targeted support, they can achieve wonderful things. They have their own strengths, interests, and personalities just like any other child.
MLD is the most commonly identified type of SEN across all age groups. Many children with MLD attend mainstream schools with additional support.
👀 What you might notice
- Learning new concepts more slowly than others in the class
- Needing things explained several times, or in different ways
- Forgetting things they seemed to have learned yesterday
- Finding it hard to transfer a skill learned in one context to another
- Needing more help than other children to get started on tasks
- Finding it hard to organise their work or follow multi-step instructions
- Relying on adults more than other children their age
- Struggling with tasks that other children do automatically
How schools can help
Learning in smaller groups with adapted materials and more adult support
Work set at the right level — challenging but achievable, building confidence
Hands-on activities, concrete resources, and visual aids to make concepts real
Revisiting key concepts regularly until they are firmly embedded
A teaching assistant working alongside your child in class or small groups
Recognising progress against their own starting point, not just comparing to others
🏠 What you can do at home
- Be patient and positive — every small step forward matters
- Break activities into small, manageable chunks with lots of praise
- Use real-life situations to practise skills: cooking for maths, shopping for money
- Read together at their level — enjoyment matters more than difficulty level
- Focus on their strengths and interests — build confidence from what they CAN do
- Keep a positive relationship with school — work together on targets
🤝 Organisations that can help
🔗 Related conditions
SEN types often overlap. Your child may have more than one area of need. Here are conditions commonly linked to Moderate Learning Difficulty:
Note: This guide is for general information only. Every child is unique, and SEN types often overlap. If you have concerns about your child, speak to your child's school SENCO and your GP. For legal advice on SEN rights, contactIPSEA (free).