Dyslexia is in part the result of inefficient phonological processing; children with dyslexia lack the ability to sort out, analyze, and sequence sounds heard in spoken language. Dyslexia accounts for approximately 80% of all diagnosed learning disabilities. The most common difficulty for children with dyslexia is in learning to read, write, spell or do math, although some children might show problems in acquiring spoken language.
While the most common indicators of dyslexia is the reversal of letters and numbers, sometimes, it’s important to understand that often these signs might just express a developmental stage of the child. Sometimes children with dyslexia may show problems recalling certain words and word sequences (days of the week, months of the year, etc.); they also show difficulties organizing thoughts, memorizing information, understanding intended meaning.
Looking for signs:
If your child is in pre-school notice if he has difficulty: learning numbers or the alphabet, identifying rhyming words, or remembering colors.
For children in the elementary grades the alarming signs may include difficulties in sounding our words, reversing numbers or letters, persistent errors in reading or spelling, remembering facts such as math facts and even misunderstanding arithmetic signs.
Dyslexic students in middle school tend to show difficulties in reading comprehension, concentrating and paying attention. They usually struggle with writing assignments and show poor spelling. They lack organizing, planning, and managing skills which affects their ability to complete assignments. For students in high school and above, dyslexia also impacts their ability to remember, retrieve, and comprehend detailed and or complex information.
While these are only some of the signs of dyslexia, it’s important that as a parent you are aware if any of these appear consistently and affect your child’s academic progress. Talk to your child’s teacher and look for the professionals in the school system to assist you in determine if your child might be dyslexic.
On the bright side, remember that many people from scientists to artists are affected by dyslexia, yet they have been able to overcome it and succeed.
For additional information visit:
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and StrokeAvko: Educational Research Foundation
Reading from Scratch
