Slower Processing Speed:
Children and teens with slower processing often appear unmotivated or even lazy, when, in fact, they do not have enough time to process the information and complete their work. These children may suffer from anxiety due to the slower processing. They are nervous and afraid of being called upon in class and not having enough time to respond.

Short Term Memory Loss:
Children with short term memory deficits can study their spelling words the night before and know them, but do poorly on the test the next day. These same children might do poorly on math assignments even after a review; the math skill or concept may appear new on a daily basis to the child who has short term memory loss.

Inability to Focus or Concentrate for Long Periods:
Many children and teens may experience attention and concentration issues following treatment. Steroids and other medications can affect attention and concentration, as well as pain and overall discomfort. Frequent breaks, as well as subtle reminders, may be needed to help the child focus.

Poor Organization:
Executive functioning is the ability to plan, organize and complete tasks. Children and teens may need assistance from teachers and parents with writing assignments in their agenda book, completing assignments, preparing for upcoming tests and projects, and keeping their notebooks and backpack organized.

Difficulty Multitasking:
Due to the late effects of chemotherapy and radiation, processing in depth information and multiple steps at one time might be very difficult. Giving both oral and written directions, with one or two steps at a time may be beneficial, as well as the teacher checking for clarification and understanding of the tasks.

Visual-Spatial Deficits:
Since visual-spatial processing is the ability to tell where objects are in space, this can affect a child’s progress in both math and reading, as well as physical activities. The use of visuals, manipulatives, and hands-on activities can help strengthen these deficits.

Difficulty with Word Retrieval:
Difficulty with word retrieval can occur following chemotherapy. The child or teen knows what he or she wants to say, but has difficulty finding the words and speaking. He or she often just needs additional time to formulate his or her thoughts.