What exactly is dyslexia? There are a number of different definitions and descriptions of dyslexia, but most agree that it is a learning difficulty that affects skills involved in accurate/fluent word reading and spelling. Although it can present in a number of different ways (no two learners are alike), the most common characteristics are weak phonological skills, verbal memory and verbal processing speed. Follow the link to see a great video explanation.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11r7CFlK2sc&t=51s
Are there other traits that are common in dyslexics? It's estimated that approximately 10% of the population are affected by dyslexia. For some, the most obvious signs are difficulties with literacy, and whilst most people associate it with reading, it is often spelling and writing difficulties that can flag up the presence of an SpLD. In addition, many learners also have difficulty with short term and working memory, motor co-ordination, aspects of language, self organisation and concentration. However, it can also carry certain benefits... dyslexic brains process information differently to neuro-typical learners and often have strengths in visual skills, construction activities, creative thinking and design. Google "famous dyslexics", and you'll see how many innovative, successful characters from the 20th century were known to be dyslexic!
My child is having difficulties, and I am not sure what to do. What are my options? It's hard watching your child struggle, and it can be confusing when their teachers don't appear unduly concerned. In this situation you may just want to talk to a professional, to work out whether there is genuine cause for concern. Alternatively, you may want advice or tips on how to support them at home - whether it's with homework, developing skills, managing behaviour or motivation. For impartial advice, I offer guidance and practical suggestions through a consultation service.
I suspect my child is dyslexic - what should I do? The first step is to talk to the school and ask to arrange a meeting with the class teacher and/or SENCO. Explain your concerns and ask their advice. Many schools have access to a 'dyslexia screening' program, and although this cannot assess or diagnose dyslexia, it indicates the probability of the presence of a SpLD and can suggest if further investigation is required.
What if my school can't/won't help? Sadly, many dyslexic students can pass through the system without being detected. Often schools have limited funding, which means that they can only afford to assess a finite number of students, so they have to prioritise. Consequently funding is reserved for students with the most severe difficulties. In addition, lack of expertise or resources mean it can be hard to identify or assess learners who are struggling, and are suspected of having an SpLD. Even schools that can identify learners at risk, have long waiting lists for assessment, and waiting lists can be over a year long.
At this stage parents often take matters into their own hands and seek outside help or a private assessment. The private assessor can then work alongside the parents and the school, assess the child and then deliver a report which is then shared with the school and contains all the information required to offer support.
How long does an assessment take? Usually about 2-3.5 hours depending on the child's needs (additional different tests may be performed if extra investigation is required). This is usually done in one session, with a break in the middle, but for younger learners and those with attention difficulties, it can be split into two sessions. The data is then analysed and the report is usually ready within 3 weeks.
Should I go down the assessment route? For many families, this is a huge dilemma. On the plus side, an assessment will give you answers, and help to understand the learner better. It will also help to identify ways to support your child and ways to help them overcome any barriers to learning, whether they turn out to be dyslexic or not. In the case of a diagnosis, it will also indicate if they should be receiving additional support in school, and if they are entitled to 'Access Arrangements' for exams (for example extra time, being able to word process instead of write, use a scribe or reader etc), which can make a huge difference to academic achievement. However, assessments can be also be inconclusive and expensive, so are not to be undertaken lightly.
At what age should a child be assessed? Signs of dyslexia can be apparent in children as young as 5, and some institutions will assess very young learners. However, some children are slower to acquire literacy skills than others, and may just be taking a little longer to pick things up. That said, early intervention can make a huge difference, so if a child is dyslexic or has another SpLD, it's best to identify this as early as possible, so that effective support can be offered. Consequently I usually recommend assessing learners from age 8+.
****Recent guidelines published by SASC have indicated that as of January 2019, a diagnostic assessment carried out at any age, will be valid for the duration of a childs academic journey (ie they will not need to be reassessed when they get older).****
Can dyslexia be 'cured'? Dyslexia isn't an 'illness' - it's simply a different way of processing information. It's also has a biological basis (neurological in origin) that is shown to be hereditary. As such, dyslexics can't change the way they process information, but they can learn strategies to overcome any associated difficulties, and learn how to maximise their strengths.
Will having a 'label' affect my child negatively? In this day and age, dyslexia is fairly well known and understood, and schools are in a strong position to offer help to those that need it. There can also be financial benefits to having a 'label', with higher education establishments providing funding and assistive technology to students wanting to go on to higher education. In addition, many learners find a diagnosis of dyslexia can offer a sense of relief, and can help to combat issues of low self esteem.
If my child is diagnosed with dyslexia, how do I explain this to them in a way they can understand?
The link below is a great way of explaining to your child what it means to be dyslexic, and will help them understand it is simply a different way of operating....
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11r7CFlK2sc