Introduction

Explanation of dyslexia as a learning disorder

Dyslexia is a well-known common learning disability that changes how the brain processes language and numbers. It is commonly diagnosed during childhood and can typically be a life-long issue, however, it does not stand in the way of your success.¹

Prevalence and demographics

It is estimated that D1 in every 10 people in the UK has some form and degree of dyslexia. It’s estimated that approximately 7% of the global population has dyslexia.^1,2

Diagnosis of dyslexia ^1,2,3

Early signs and symptoms 

There are various signs that can be picked up by either your child’s teacher or yourself. Some of these signs include:

• Difficulty spelling and/or reading simple words
• Struggle to learn the names of letters
• Struggle to tell apart letters that look similar, such as “p” and “q” or “b” and “d”
• Trouble in rhyming
• Avoiding reading out loud
• Mixing the position of sounds in words
• Trouble speaking new words
• Struggle learning how sounds go together

Diagnostic procedures

Initial screening by teachers and parents 

If you feel your child is showing signs of dyslexia, the first step you should take is talking with their teacher and/or the school's special educational needs coordinator. They can offer your child additional support should they need it. This may include consulting with a specialist or requesting an assessment by an educational psychologist or speech and language therapist.

Comprehensive assessment by specialists

An in-depth assessment can be requested by you or your child’s schools. This can be done by contacting your GP or privately, including:

• An organisation, such as The Dyslexia Association, British Dyslexia Association and many others
• An educational psychologist
• Neuropsychologist

These specialists can be contacted privately or advised by your local GP or by the school specialist. 

Standardised Tests and Tools

Since dyslexia happens because of the differences in your brain, there is no blood test that can detect it. For this reason, careful evaluation and assessments of the following are done: 

• Language skills
• Decoding (reading unfamiliar words and pronouncing them phonetically)
• Reading fluency- includes reading out loud accurately, smoothly and with the appropriate expression 
• Reading comprehension
• Vocabulary
• Spelling
• Recognising words in a sentence

Treatment options for dyslexia^1,4,5,6

Educational Interventions

Individualised Education Programs (IEPs)- these are programs that tailor educational services and goals for students with dyslexia.

Specialised tutoring and instruction methods

• Orton-Gillingham approach - this involves helping your child read by breaking words down into letters and sounds and then building them up over time.
• Wilson Reading System -  uses a systemic approach where an intensive Tier 3 program for students and adults who do not make enough progress in their approach

Technological aids

There are a few technological help that can be used to help in dyslexia, including:

• Text-to-speech software- these can be particularly beneficial for comprehending complex texts without the strain of having to decode.
• Educational apps and softwares - these can use games and activities to help your child learn phonetics, reading and spelling.

Classroom accommodations

If your child needs support in school, the schools will do their best to accommodate your child and make sure they are comfortable and still learning. Some of these include:

• Using audiobooks and other alternative formats
• Extended time during exams, and assignments

Ongoing management and support

Role of parents and caregivers

Dyslexia can draw attention when children begin learning how to read, but it is not always detectable. As a parent you can do a lot to be supportive of your child, including:

• Spending time to read out loud with your child
• Being supportive and patient
• Encouraging and giving your child confidence, helping them feel less anxious and afraid to read out loud
• Speak with their teachers for help and additional support

Conclusion

Having dyslexia can be embarrassing and frustrating for anyone. Children can form fear and anxiety if they do not know why they are struggling to do something that others do not have trouble with. It is important to understand that dyslexia is very common and it does not mean it makes your child less intelligent than others. Dyslexia only forms a challenge but it does not stand in the way of your goals.