More than 40 percent of parents believe their child has a learning difference, prompting questions about to support neurodiversity in the classroom

How does neurodiversity impact learners and educators?


More than 40 percent of parents believe their child has a learning difference, prompting questions about how to support neurodiversity in the classroom

Close to half of student may have a learning different, and more than half of parents in say they have sought supplemental learning services for their child, according to a recent survey.

The 2022 Learnfully Neurodiversity Report, from personalized learning platform Learnfully, surveyed parents and educators across the U.S. and examines awareness of learning differences and the impact of neurodiversity on educators, learners, and parents.

The report found that 41 percent of kids may have a learning difference, with 24 percent having a confirmed diagnosis and another 17 percent of parents suspecting their child has a learning difference, a number that is much higher – more than double – than accepted industry statistics.

In addition, nearly 70 percent of parents think that educational therapy, in which an educator or specialist works one-on-one with a student outside of the classroom, should be provided by schools.  

Among parents surveyed, the report found that:

Beyond the classroom: 57 percent of parents have sought supplemental learning services for their child, such as private tutoring or specialized education support

Growing demand for supplemental services: 25 percent would spend over $500 per month or $6,000 annualized to improve their child’s educational outcomes

Covid-19 drives parental engagement: 47 percent of parents are more involved in their kids’ education since the pandemic

Parents want teachers to gain more support: Just 55 percent of parents believe that their child’s schools provide the support needed to their teachers to make all learners successful. 

Learning differences impact mental health: 35 percent of parents who have a child with a learning difference said their or their spouses mental health has been impacted.

Among educators who were surveyed, the report found that: 

Need for supplemental services: A majority of teachers (54 percent) said that nearly 1 in 3 of their students would benefit from supplemental education services.

Struggling with SEL: 62 percent of teachers say they have students who are coping with Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) challenges.

Going the extra mile: 60 percent of respondents spent at least $100 out of their own pocket to improve student outcomes

“In the wake of the pandemic, learners across age ranges need personalized and supplemental services to enhance their educational trajectory,” said Letha McLaren, CEO and Co-Founder, Learnfully. “Our one of a kind, strength-based program caters to student needs and their motivations, helping learners develop confidence and fall in love with the process of learning.”

The survey is based on the responses of more than 300 parents and educators surveyed in March 2022. 

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Laura Ascione
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