Does My Child Have Dyslexia?
The word dyslexia gets tossed around frequently, but do we have an understanding of what it is and who has it? Sometimes it’s best to define what it is not.
Dyslexia IS NOT:
Simple reversing of letters (In fact, reversing letters can still be considered normal up to a certain point in young learners)
Lack of intelligence (Dyslexics can be very knowledgeable about many things and can have a solid vocabulary as well).
What dyslexia IS:
Dyslexia is struggle to read words, separate and apart from one’s intelligence. Many define it as a learning style.
As you come to an understanding about dyslexia, realize that it’s the most common learning disability at about ⅕ of our population. Dyslexia runs on a spectrum, meaning that it is possible to REALLY dyslexic or slightly dyslexic. The symptoms may all be manifested in the learner or there may only be a few.
Dyslexics CAN learn to read, but will require more steps to accomplish reading. Children do NOT grow out of having dyslexia, but will learn to cope and manage more successful ways for them to learn. Researchers know that dyslexics have a tendency to think outside of the box, but they are unsure if it comes naturally or is a result of having to do so to overcome any disadvantage they feel in reading. As such, some dyslexics are known for being quite creative problem solvers.
Here are some things to look out for, some of which are able to be observed as early as the preschool years:
Poor spelling
Difficulty pronouncing words
Trouble making rhyming words
Delayed speech
Learning and Remembering letters (even the letters in their own name)
Inheriting a reading disability (Dyslexia runs in families)
Again, you may not notice all of these signs, but a few. This has been just the tip of the iceberg on the topic of dyslexia. This information is a summary.
Last of all, for parents who’d like to find ways to help their child out with a systematic approach at home, I’d recommend looking for a program that is Orton-Gillingham based. If you’re searching for a tutor, I encourage you to reach out to one who will be experienced in the Orton-Gillingham method, named for a pair of individuals who researched ways to improve reading decoding.
If you’d like to read more in-depth about dyslexia, here are some excellent resources:
The Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity
This website is extensive with many ideas. One of my favorites is the resource for parents on how to best prepare for a meeting at school. It will give you the confidence to walk right in and advocate for your child with a plan.
Overcoming Dyslexia by Shally Shaywitz
The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia is a documentary film available for rent on Youtube and Amazon.
Wilson Reading Program: www.WilsonLanguage.com
Barton Reading Program: www.bartonreading.com
All About Reading: www.allaboutlearningpress.com