evidence: What’s the Difference Between Speech Disorders and Language-Based Learning Disabilities? [...] Language-based learning disabilities (LBLD) are very different from speech impairments. LBLD refers to a whole spectrum of difficulties associated with young children’s understanding and use of spoken and written language. LBLD can affect a wide variety of communication and academic skills. These include listening, speaking, reading, writing and doing math calculations. Some children with LBLD can’t learn the alphabet in the correct order or can’t "sound out" a spelling word. They may be able to read through a story but can’t tell you what it was about. Children with LBLD find it hard to express ideas well even though most kids with this diagnosis have average to superior intelligence.