Special Needs Focus: Dyslexia
Dyslexia - literally meaning 'difficulty with words' - is a common learning difficulty. Around one in 20 people are thought to have some degree of dyslexia.
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Thankfully, in recent years better diagnosis has meant that people with dyslexia have been able to get appropriate help earlier, allowing them to succeed at both school and in the workplace. Dyslexia does not affect intelligence.
So what are the common signs of dyslexia in children?
Dyslexia in children
If your child has been diagnosed with dyslexia it's a lifelong learning difficulty, so it's vital they receive the right guidance and support.
The worst thing that can happen to a child with dyslexia is for them to be written off because they struggle with what are, to other people, simple cognitive processes.
While people with dyslexia can have problems with both reading and spelling, as well as numeracy, they certainly aren't 'slow'. In fact, a dyslexic person is often extremely good at problem solving, lateral thinking, creativity and innovation.
If your child has had a positive diagnosis or you suspect there might be a problem we hope this page will offer some answers to your questions and worries and help you understand dyslexia.
You can also chat to other parents of dyslexic children or find out which support groups run in your area.
What is dyslexia?
Dyslexia covers problems with reading, writing or numbers. People with dyslexia have difficulty processing information relating to these areas.
They are of normal intelligence and their inability to process information is not related to issues with vision or hearing. Essentially, if you are dyslexic your brain is 'wired' slightly differently.
In the past, children with dyslexia would have often been labelled lazy or un-cooperative. Thankfully, understanding of dyslexia has improved tremendously in recent years.
This means dyslexic children will receive the right support at school (through special needs assistants or specially-tailored tutoring) so they can enjoy fulfilled and successful school lives and will be adequately equipped to take on the world of work.
It's important to remember that dyslexia is an 'umbrella term' covering a variety of information processing and communication issues, and can affect people in mild or more severe ways.
Some 10% of the population is dyslexic. The exact cause isn't known but it does tend to run in families.
What are the symptoms?
Key indicators that might suggest a person may have dyslexia include:
- Hesitant or slow reading and writing, often 'stumbling' over words
- Misreading certain words
- Putting letters or numbers round the wrong way
- Poor spelling
- Scatty, disorganised approach to work
- Poor time management skills
- Difficulty organising thoughts clearly
Of course, it's important not to self-diagnose. Even if your child does display some of the above symptoms it may not be a sign of dyslexia.
If you are concerned it's important to discuss your worries with your child's teacher for their take on the situation. They may suggest a meeting with the school's Special Needs Coordinator (SENCO).
But if you feel you aren't being listened to, don't hesitate to contact your local Dyslexia Association or speak to your GP who will refer you for specialist help.
What is important to remember is that a child with dyslexia can and will learn as long as they get the specialist help they need.
Some common myths about dyslexia
All poor readers must be dyslexic
There are many reasons for children not grasping the concept of reading at an appropriate age and to define all poor readers as dyslexic is wrong. If one child is not being read to and encouraged to read by themselves at home this can have a significant impact on their reading skills.
Dyslexia is caused by 'faulty' genes
It's not the outcome of faulty genetic makeup or a 'glitch' in the brain – many dyslexic people have a slightly larger right side of the brain than non-dyslexics, which may contribute to problems with reading, writing and numbers but means they are usually very creative, musical and good at problem solving.
Dyslexia can't be treated
While a person does not grow out of dyslexia and there is no medical intervention that can be used to treat it, people with dyslexia can overcome many learning obstacles but only if they receive the right support at an early stage.
It's important to remember that if dyslexia remains undiagnosed a child will usually have an unhappy and frustrating experience at school, leading to lack of motivation and self-esteem, denting their willingness to approach reading, writing and numeracy in new ways. Early intervention really is vital.
What you can do to help your child
Lots of praise and encouragement is essential to boost self-esteem and keep your child feeling positive and focused. Dyslexic children sometimes struggle to find their strengths as mistakes often get in the way, but with plenty of help from you, they're more likely to take a more enthusiastic approach to work.
Dyslexic children need more time and concentration to complete tasks but you can help them by breaking activities down so they understand them more clearly.
For example, instead of instructing them to get ready for school, you could say 'come and get your lunch box and pack it away', 'is your pencil case ready?', 'can you put your shoes on so you're ready to go?'.
A few small gestures (and a little bit of thought) can make all the difference to the way a dyslexic child handles tasks.
Other ways to help a dyslexic child include:
Keep distractions to a minimum. Turn the TV/radio off when they are concentrating on homework and sit in a quiet room when you are helping them read.
Create mini tests/activities. Getting your child used to 'timed' activities will be hugely beneficial if they have important tests coming up at school.
Reassure them that it's OK to make mistakes. Explain to them that they will make lots of mistakes before they find a solution. It could prevent them from feeling so disappointed when they slip up.
Keep in regular contact with the school. You're more likely to be aware of any problems/issues that arise if you're in close contact with your child's teachers. Ask them to give you weekly updates on their progress and identify the weaker areas that may need to be worked on at home.
Where to get help
Speak to your GP if you're worried about any aspect of your child's development. They can refer you to specialist help.
Alternatively you can talk in the first instance to your child's teacher – they will be able to provide additional information about how your child is getting on at school and whether they believe your child might need some additional help.
Always get a second opinion if you feel your concerns are not being given due attention.
Support for you
The British Dyslexia Association is the leading organisation in the UK for providing information and support for people with dyslexia. Its website features lots of useful resources, including where to get help, choosing a school, homework and handwriting tips, and school exams.
Don't forget to check your local listings for local dyslexia support groups and services in your area, in addition to the Coffeehouse special needs forum.
