How to Recognize the Signs of NVLD (Nonverbal Learning Disability)

Nonverbal learning disability, typically abbreviated to NVLD or NLD, is a neurodevelopmental disability characterized by strong verbal skills but difficulties with nonverbal skills. While the term "nonverbal learning disability" is not an official diagnosis as of the DSM-V or ICD-10, the condition is becoming more acknowledged in the medical field and academic environments. Recognizing the signs of NVLD is important for getting treatment and support, regardless of age.

Part 1
Part 1 of 2:

Looking for Signs

  1. "Nonverbal" in NVLD doesn't mean an inability to use language. In fact, one of the key traits of NVLD is advanced verbal skills that tend to exceed the abilities of most people their age. Whether they're children or adults, people with NVLD will always specialize in verbal skills and put them to good use. Signs of strong verbal skills include: [1]
    • Speaking early in infancy
    • Advanced or complex vocabulary (may be a "textbook-talker")
    • Strong reading skills, especially at a younger age; may have started reading early
    • Good at spelling and sounding out words
    • Highly talkative (though they may use "flowery speech" and not impart much information)
  2. While people with NVLD excel in tasks using verbal skills, they often don't perform as strongly on other academic subjects; for example, they may have average or below-average math skills. [2] They also tend to have difficulty with visuals and more complex concepts like cause-and-effect or problem-solving. [3] Their learning disabilities are in nonverbal subjects, hence nonverbal learning disability.
    • Despite their strengths in reading and language, people with NVLD (particularly children) might struggle with reading comprehension and writing, because they may focus too much on details or have difficulty organizing their thoughts. [4] [5] [6]
    • Many people with NVLD have difficulty with visual interpretation. They might have difficulty reading charts, graphs, or maps, and make frequent mistakes when asked to do something like copy a drawing. [7] [8]
    • People with NVLD may not draw much attention when they're struggling with something, because their verbal skills are so strong. When these difficulties are noticed, they may seem to surprise others - they may often hear comments such as, "You're so smart. This should be easy for you". [9]
    • Not every person with NVLD has a specific learning disability, but some do.
    Advertisement
  3. NVLD tends to come with strong rote memory , which is the ability to memorize something through repetition. They tend to have an easy time memorizing facts and social scripts, which often makes early elementary school easy for them. [10] They may also remember details quite vividly, or remember unusual things for a long time. [11]
    • People with NVLD tend to have a stronger memory for auditory information, but struggle to remember visual information (like information written in textbooks or depicted in images). [12] They may be categorized as auditory learners.
    • Someone with NVLD might need to "verbally categorize" something in order to remember it. [13] [14]

    Did You Know? Children with NVLD tend to do well in the first few years of school because of their verbal skills and memory. Later on, difficulties may become more apparent as they struggle to apply what they've learned more broadly. [15]

  4. NVLD often appears as a sharp eye for detail, and people with the condition often are very observant and detail-oriented. That being said, sometimes people with NVLD may perseverate too much on details and lose sight of the broader picture or meaning of something. [16] For example, they might be able to read a complex essay with no problems, but struggle to tell another person what it's about.
    • NVLD can cause difficulty with abstract reasoning (i.e., the ability to apply a concept to something broader). For example, they might be able to memorize a math formula, but have difficulty solving equations with it. [17]
    • Someone with NVLD may focus on the least important part of what they're seeing, reading, or hearing - in other words, paying attention to the "wrong" thing. [18] [19] They may "get stuck" on this detail and have trouble moving their attention elsewhere. [20]
  5. Even though they have strong verbal skills, people with NVLD often tend to be literal thinkers and may not catch jokes, sarcasm, or wordplay. They might not understand when someone is trying to be mean or playful, and may need jokes or puns explained to them. [21] [22] However, they often learn figurative language and idioms quite quickly when they're explained to them.
  6. An extremely prominent component of NVLD is difficulty reading social scenarios. The person might not recognize certain facial expressions, tones of voice, or use of body language, and may be prone to oversharing or talking a lot. Some common social difficulties associated with NVLD include: [23] [24]
    • Difficulty reading facial expressions or body language
    • Not noticing or understanding tone of voice
    • Not picking up on unwritten social rules (e.g. standing too close to other people)
    • Struggling to interpret the mood of a situation
    • Being too trusting; may not recognize when someone is lying or has bad intent
    • Taking a long time to "get to the point" when they talk, or focusing on the wrong details
    • Asking so many questions that others become irritated
    • Talking incessantly; interrupting, not letting others speak, or not realizing they're not interested
    • Oversharing or going into detail about something socially inappropriate
    • Avoiding their peers; spending time with those of a different age (e.g. a child talking to an adult, or an adult talking with younger teens)
    • Preferring to communicate online or over text rather than in-person
    • Feeling nervous, confused, or anxious in social situations (may become more prominent with age)
  7. NVLD impacts someone's ability to organize and plan things out, which can be apparent in a variety of situations. They might be messy, have difficulty prioritizing, only half-complete things, or rely on trial-and-error rather than concrete plans to finish a task. [25] [26] Because of this, they may not finish some of their projects and might frequently miss deadlines or not turn in schoolwork.
    • Someone with NVLD might have difficulty carrying out multi-step tasks or multitasking. [27]
  8. NVLD can result in difficulty judging how far apart two things are, or how close they themselves are in relation to something else. They might misjudge how far apart things are, constantly run into things or people, or stand too close or too far away from someone else in conversation. They might seem to be physically awkward or inadvertently getting in other people's way. [28]
    • It's not uncommon for people with NVLD to become disoriented or lost easily, even in places they frequently go to (e.g. school, work, or the store). [29]
    • Teens and adults with NVLD may have difficulty with or fear driving a car, because of the spatial awareness required for this.
  9. People with NVLD can seem clumsy or accident-prone, and might accidentally hurt themselves or violate people's personal space. [30] They may have poor balance, shaky handwriting, and seem generally uncoordinated.
    • When learning to walk, toddlers with NVLD may fall much more than expected and wind up hanging on to people or objects to steady themselves. [31]
    • Children may struggle with tasks that require fine motor control, such as tying shoes, handwriting, using buttons or zippers, or using scissors. They may often run into people or things, have trouble playing sports or learning to ride a bike, or spill or drop things. [32] In extreme cases, they may lose their balance so easily that they fall out of chairs. [33]
    • Teens and adults may have difficulty with handwriting and other fine-motor tasks, or seem clumsy and lose their balance often. [34]
  10. Resistance to change and a preference for sameness is common in NVLD. The person may not go outside of their comfort zone and become distressed by even small changes or unexpected events. [35] [36] They may go out of their way to avoid unfamiliar situations or breaking routines, even if that change is something as small as buying new clothes.
    • Children with NVLD may prefer to ask lots of questions about something rather than exploring it themselves (for example, asking an adult about a toy rather than picking up the toy and playing with it). [37] They often tend to rely on their parents at an age when they'd be expected to become more independent. [38]
    • Many people with NVLD develop routines to make sure they complete things or don't forget something, and become very distressed if their routine is changed or interrupted. [39] These routines may look similar to routines in autism, but differ in that their purpose is usually readily apparent. [40]
  11. Unfortunately, it's quite common for people with NVLD to have emotional struggles if they have difficulty in school, work, and interpersonal relationships. They may withdraw or avoid spending time with others, and avoid sharing their thoughts or feelings for fear of the reaction of others. [41] Older children, teens, and adults with NVLD are at increased risk of a mental health disorder such as anxiety or depression. [42]
    • Because NVLD often becomes more apparent in middle school or high school, children and teens with NVLD may struggle more as they go through the later grades. They may be stressed out by academic and social demands, and may think of themselves as stupid or incompetent. [43]
    • Nonverbal tasks and socialization may become a source of anxiety, as these tasks are quite difficult and the person may often make mistakes. They realize they're different from their peers, but don't understand why, which can lead to low self-esteem and depression. [44]
    Advertisement
Part 2
Part 2 of 2:

Seeking Diagnosis

  1. Because NVLD shares quite a few traits with other conditions and disabilities, it's a good idea to look into similar conditions and see if those conditions seem to fit better. While it's very common for some conditions to occur alongside NVLD, the treatment for these conditions are all quite different. Some conditions that can look like NVLD include:
    • Autism (which shares many traits with NVLD, and includes passionate interests, an unusual developmental timeline, stimming, and potentially delayed speech)
    • ADHD (which has many overlaps with NVLD, and can include frequent daydreaming, restlessness, and impulsivity)
    • Specific learning disabilities that aren't language-based, such as dyscalculia or dysgraphia
    • Social communication disorder
    • Dyspraxia
  2. NVLD is extremely likely to come alongside other conditions, and some professionals consider it to be a description of challenges that can come with the co-occurring disorders. [45] Conditions that frequently occur with NVLD include: [46] [47] [48]
    • ADHD
    • Autism
    • Learning disabilities in nonverbal subjects (e.g. dysgraphia)
    • Dyspraxia
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
  3. If you're uncertain as to whether you or your child has NVLD, it's a good idea to think about the past and consider any notable incidents or comments from others (such as teachers or peers). Does your or your child's behavior suddenly become more understandable when seen as a result of NVLD?
    • Academically, did you or your child excel in language-based subjects but have some trouble grasping others?
    • Socially, did you or your child have trouble grasping what seemed like basic social rules to other people, or have difficulty connecting to or relating to peers?
    • Were you or your child messy or disorganized, clumsy, or had difficulty planning things out?

    Tip: Try to think back as far as you can remember, as many signs of NVLD appear in early childhood and don't tend to stand out. If possible, asking others who knew you or your child in early childhood may also give you some insights.

  4. Because NVLD doesn't have a firm set of diagnostic criteria and can look so similar to conditions such as ADHD or autism, it's impossible to diagnose it after just reading a few articles on it. You'll need to talk to a professional and go through testing to get any firm conclusions.
  5. Talk to your or your child's doctor about getting a referral for an evaluation. An assessment for NVLD involves testing for discrepancies in verbal abilities and nonverbal abilities, and professionals can also screen for similar-looking conditions such as autism to determine whether you or your child have NVLD or something else.
    • If the assessment is for your child, schools in the US often can perform basic testing, but they may not be able to diagnose NVLD or may be unaware of it. However, these results can be taken to another specialist if you're concerned.
    Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    What do you do if you think a child has a learning disability?
    Laura Reber, SSP
    School Psychologist
    Laura Reber is a school psychologist and founder of Progress Parade, an organization that provides 1:1 online tutoring with hand-picked specialists to students with academic needs, ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, and social-emotional challenges. Laura works with a team of school psychologists and specialized teachers to create personalized approaches for homework support, academic intervention, homeschooling, unschooling, and more. Laura holds a BS in Psychology from Truman State University and a Specialist in School Psychology degree (SSP) from Illinois State University.
    Laura Reber, SSP
    School Psychologist
    Expert Answer
    See if you can get them targeted help first, specifically on whatever the student's struggling with. A lot of times, they just need a little bit of extra practice, some extra instruction, or a different type of instruction.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit

      Advertisement

      Tips

      • NVLD exists on a spectrum, and not everyone has every trait. [49]
        Thanks
        Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
      • People with NVLD often benefit from social coaching at any age, as they tend to have a good memory for social scripts.
        Thanks
        Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
      • People don't outgrow NVLD; a child with NVLD will become an adult with NVLD. However, treatment can help someone build the skills they struggle with.
        Thanks
        Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Become a Sterile Processing Technician
      How to
      Relieve Lower Back Tightness
      How to
      Increase Good Bacteria in Your Gut
      How to
      Make a School Lunch
      How to
      Identify Measles
      How to
      Get Rid of Hormonal Acne
      How to
      Identify Pathological Demand Avoidance in Autistic Children
      How to
      Lose Weight Through Clean Eating
      How to
      Tell Your Family You're Pregnant
      How to
      Tell Your Husband That You Are Pregnant
      How to
      Choose a Multivitamin for Women
      How to
      Get Rid of Lower Belly Fat
      How to
      Treat Baby Eczema
      How to
      Reduce Stress with Adult Coloring Books
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-in-children-symptoms-by-age/
      2. ↑ https://childmind.org/article/what-is-non-verbal-learning-disorder/
      3. ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/nonverbal-learning-disabilities/understanding-nonverbal-learning-disabilities
      4. ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/nonverbal-learning-disabilities/5-confusing-signs-of-nonverbal-learning-disabilities?view=slideview
      5. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/what-is-nonverbal-learning-disorder-symptoms-and-diagnosis/
      6. ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/community-events/blogs/the-inside-track/2017/11/16/6-surprising-ways-nonverbal-learning-disability-affects-me-as-a-young-adult
      7. ↑ https://childmind.org/article/what-is-non-verbal-learning-disorder/
      8. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-symptoms-in-adults-breakdown/
      9. ↑ https://ldaamerica.org/types-of-learning-disabilities/non-verbal-learning-disabilities/
      1. ↑ https://www.smartkidswithld.org/first-steps/what-are-learning-disabilities/nld-overview/
      2. ↑ http://www.ldonline.org/article/6114
      3. ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/nonverbal-learning-disabilities/understanding-nonverbal-learning-disabilities
      4. ↑ https://ldaamerica.org/types-of-learning-disabilities/non-verbal-learning-disabilities/
      5. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-in-children-symptoms-by-age/
      6. ↑ https://www.smartkidswithld.org/first-steps/what-are-learning-disabilities/nld-overview/
      7. ↑ https://www.smartkidswithld.org/first-steps/what-are-learning-disabilities/nld-overview/
      8. ↑ https://www.smartkidswithld.org/first-steps/what-are-learning-disabilities/nld-overview/
      9. ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/signs-symptoms/could-your-child-have/executive-function-disorder-symptoms
      10. ↑ https://childmind.org/article/what-is-non-verbal-learning-disorder/
      11. ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/friends-feelings/common-challenges/self-control/how-various-learning-and-attention-issues-can-cause-trouble-with-self-control
      12. ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/nonverbal-learning-disabilities/understanding-nonverbal-learning-disabilities
      13. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-symptoms-in-adults-breakdown/
      14. ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/social-skills-issues/understanding-childs-trouble-with-social-skills
      15. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-symptoms-in-adults-breakdown/
      16. ↑ https://childmind.org/article/quick-facts-on-non-verbal-learning-disorder-nld/
      17. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-symptoms-in-adults-breakdown/
      18. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-symptoms-in-adults-breakdown/
      19. ↑ https://ldaamerica.org/types-of-learning-disabilities/non-verbal-learning-disabilities/
      20. ↑ https://ldaamerica.org/types-of-learning-disabilities/non-verbal-learning-disabilities/
      21. ↑ https://ldaamerica.org/types-of-learning-disabilities/non-verbal-learning-disabilities/
      22. ↑ http://www.ldonline.org/article/6114
      23. ↑ https://ldaamerica.org/types-of-learning-disabilities/non-verbal-learning-disabilities/
      24. ↑ http://www.ldonline.org/article/6114
      25. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-symptoms-in-adults-breakdown/
      26. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-symptoms-in-adults-breakdown/
      27. ↑ http://www.med.umich.edu/yourchild/topics/nld.htm
      28. ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/nonverbal-learning-disabilities/5-confusing-signs-of-nonverbal-learning-disabilities?view=slideview
      29. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-in-children-symptoms-by-age/
      30. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-symptoms-in-adults-breakdown/
      31. ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/nonverbal-learning-disabilities/difference-between-nonverbal-learning-disabilities-and-aspergers-syndrome
      32. ↑ http://www.med.umich.edu/yourchild/topics/nld.htm
      33. ↑ https://www.additudemag.com/nonverbal-learning-disorder-symptoms-in-adults-breakdown/
      34. ↑ https://www.smartkidswithld.org/first-steps/what-are-learning-disabilities/nld-overview/
      35. ↑ http://www.med.umich.edu/yourchild/topics/nld.htm
      36. ↑ https://childmind.org/article/what-is-non-verbal-learning-disorder/
      37. ↑ https://childmind.org/article/what-is-non-verbal-learning-disorder/
      38. ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/nonverbal-learning-disabilities/understanding-nonverbal-learning-disabilities
      39. ↑ https://www.brighthubeducation.com/special-ed-speech-disorders/97169-students-with-a-nonverbal-learning-disability/
      40. ↑ https://childmind.org/article/what-is-non-verbal-learning-disorder/

      About this article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 14,357 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Elle M.

        Oct 11, 2019

        "I spent weeks reading books about NVLD after my daughter was diagnosed with it, taking notes along the way. This ..." more

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement