Understanding Dyslexia: A Guide for Parents

What is dyslexia?

As a parent, it's natural to be concerned about your child's development and education. If you've noticed your child struggling with reading or writing, you might be wondering if dyslexia could be the cause. Understanding dyslexia and recognising its signs early on can make a significant difference in your child's learning journey.

What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that primarily affects reading and spelling skills. It is often hereditary. Contrary to common misconceptions, dyslexia is not a reflection of intelligence or effort. Many people with dyslexia are highly creative and intelligent but require different learning strategies to succeed.

Common Signs of Dyslexia

Dyslexia manifests in various ways. Here are some common signs that might indicate your child has dyslexia:

1. Difficulty with Reading: Children with dyslexia often struggle to decode words, which means they find it challenging to connect letters with the sounds they represent. This can make reading slow and laborious.

2. Problems with Spelling: Spelling can be particularly difficult for children with dyslexia. They might spell the same word differently within a single piece of writing and often rely heavily on phonetic (as it sounds) spelling, which may not always be correct.

3. Trouble with Phonological Processing: Phonological processing is the ability to recognise and work with sounds in spoken language. Children with dyslexia might have difficulty identifying syllables, rhyming words, or breaking words into smaller parts.

4. Slow Writing: Writing can be a slow process for children with dyslexia. They may have trouble organising their thoughts on paper, and their handwriting might be hard to read.

5. Delayed Language Skills: Early language milestones, such as speaking in full sentences or learning new words, might be delayed in children with dyslexia. They might also have trouble following multi-step directions.

6. Difficulty with Memorisation: Children with dyslexia often find it challenging to memorise sequences, such as days of the week, months of the year, or the alphabet.

7. Avoidance of Reading: Due to the challenges they face, children with dyslexia might avoid reading activities altogether, preferring to engage in other tasks where they feel more confident.

Supporting Your Child

If you suspect your child has dyslexia, you ay want to consider a full diagnostic assessment from Lexety Education, based in Truro, Cornwall. An early diagnosis can lead to interventions that can significantly help your child. Here are some strategies to support your child at home:

1. Create a Positive Learning Environment: Encourage your child's efforts and celebrate their successes, no matter how small. Building their confidence is key to their progress.

2. Use Multisensory Learning Techniques: Incorporate visual, auditory, and tactile elements into learning activities. For example, using letter tiles, tracing words in sand, or using apps designed for dyslexic learners can be beneficial.

3. Read Aloud Together: Reading aloud to your child can help them develop a love for stories and improve their listening skills. Let them follow along with the text to make connections between spoken and written words.

4. Leverage Technology: There are many assistive technologies available, such as audiobooks, speech-to-text software, and specialised reading programs, which can help children with dyslexia.

5. Collaborate with Educators: Work closely with your child’s teachers to ensure they receive the necessary accommodations and support at school. This might include extended time for tests, the use of a scribe, or access to specialised reading instruction.

Conclusion

Understanding dyslexia and its signs is the first step in helping your child overcome the challenges it presents. With the right support and strategies, children with dyslexia can thrive academically and develop a lifelong love of learning. A full diagnostic assessment for dyslexia can help by providing comprehensive recommendations to support your child's learning journey at home and in school.