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Father Reading Together

Families

What is dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability that occurs in an area of the brain that processes language. Dyslexia is characterized by difficulty decoding sounds into words and is most often seen in issues with reading, writing and spelling.

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The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) created a handbook for families understand dyslexia, and learn about available supports and resources. Recognizing the signs of dyslexia early is essential so that a child can be evaluated and receive the appropriate instruction and supports needed to succeed in school. It covers information about:

  • definition of dyslexia

  • ​characteristics of dyslexia

  • appropriate assessment tools

  • evidence-based interventions

  • suggestions for managing a dyslexic’s educational process

What might I notice if someone has dyslexia?

Dyslexia can present in different ways and the degree of dyslexia may vary between individuals  In school age children the most common things you may notice:

  • Reading well below the expected level for age

  • Problems processing and understanding what is heard

  • Difficulty word-finding or forming an answer to a question

  • Problems with memory and sequencing of things

  • Difficulty seeing (and occasionally hearing) similarities and differences in letters and words

  • Difficulty sounding out or with the pronunciation of a new word

  • Difficulty spelling

  • Spending an unusually long time completing tasks that involve reading or writing

  • Avoiding activities that involve reading

What is a learning disability?

A learning disability is a neurological difference that affects how a person processes, stores, or expresses information. Individuals with learning disabilities may experience challenges with skills such as reading, writing, spelling, memory, organization, or mathematics. These differences can affect how students learn and demonstrate their knowledge in school.

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Learning disabilities are distinct from other disabilities such as autism, intellectual disabilities, hearing or vision impairments, or behavioral disorders. They are also not caused by limited educational opportunities, frequent school changes, attendance issues, or the process of learning English as an additional language. With appropriate instruction and support, students with learning disabilities can successfully develop academic skills and strategies for learning.

What types of learning disabilities are there?

Dyslexia – a language-based disability in which a person has trouble understanding written words. It may also be referred to as reading disability or reading disorder.

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Dyscalculia – a mathematical disability in which a person has a difficult time solving arithmetic problems and grasping math concepts.

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Dysgraphia – a writing disability in which a person finds it hard to form letters or write within a defined space.

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Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders – sensory disabilities in which a person has difficulty understanding language despite normal hearing and vision.

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Nonverbal Learning Disabilities – a neurological disorder which originates in the right hemisphere of the brain, causing problems with visual-spatial, intuitive, organizational, evaluative and holistic processing functions

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