Understanding Dyslexia: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Support

Dyslexia is a common learning disorder that affects how individuals process written language, impacting reading, writing, and spelling abilities. Recognising the signs early and understanding effective support strategies are crucial steps in helping children with dyslexia succeed academically and emotionally.

What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability characterised by challenges in reading fluency, accuracy, and comprehension, despite normal intelligence levels. It affects approximately 1 in 10 people to varying degrees.

Symptoms of Dyslexia

Signs of dyslexia may include:

• Reading Challenges: Difficulty decoding words, slow reading pace, and trouble understanding what is read.

• Spelling Difficulties: Inconsistent spelling, frequent errors in written work, and difficulty with phonics.

• Writing Issues: Poor handwriting, struggles with grammar and sentence structure, and avoidance of writing tasks.

Diagnosing Dyslexia

Diagnosing dyslexia typically involves:

• Comprehensive Assessment: Educational psychologists assess reading, writing, and language skills through standardised tests and observations.

• Historical Review: Gathering information about developmental milestones and academic performance from parents and teachers.

• Screening Tools: Using tools to evaluate phonological processing, word recognition, and comprehension abilities.

Interventions and Support Strategies

Effective interventions for dyslexia include:

• Structured Literacy Programs: Utilising programs like Orton-Gillingham that focus on phonics, decoding, and comprehension skills.

• Multisensory Techniques: Engaging multiple senses (auditory, visual, kinesthetic) to reinforce learning and memory.

• Assistive Technology: Providing tools such as speech-to-text software and audiobooks to aid reading and writing tasks.

• Educational Accommodations: Offering extended time for assignments, using specialised fonts, and modifying test formats.

Supporting Families

Supporting a child with dyslexia involves:

• Education and Advocacy: Learning about dyslexia, understanding your child’s strengths, and advocating for appropriate educational accommodations.

• Collaboration: Working closely with educators to develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or the UK equivalent, Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), tailored to your child’s needs.

Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)

In the UK, an EHCP outlines the specific support and accommodations needed for children and young people with SEN, including dyslexia. It ensures they receive the necessary resources and services to thrive academically and socially within the educational setting.