What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. It appears as an unexpected reading difficulty in a child or adult who otherwise has good intelligence, strong motivation, and adequate schooling. It is a common disability, affecting 1 out of 5 people. Dyslexia is a persistent problem that will not go away on its own or be outgrown. The good news is that children, teens and adults with dyslexia can learn to read, given the proper intervention.
The best time to get help for a struggling reader is now. As Sally Shaywitz, MD says in her book, Overcoming Dyslexia,
“Reading problems are not outgrown, they are persistent. Without identification and proven interventions, virtually all children who have reading difficulties early on will still struggle with reading when they are adults. It is possible to diagnose dyslexia early and accurately, to provide effective interventions, and for children who are dyslexic to reach adulthood feeling confident and able to achieve their potential. It is also possible to diagnose, to remediate, and to alleviate many of the problems of dyslexic adults."
If you think you or your child could have dsylexia, see the Signs of Dyslexia checklist. The diagnosis of dyslexia can only be made by a qualified professional, such as a psychologist.
The best time to get help for a struggling reader is now. As Sally Shaywitz, MD says in her book, Overcoming Dyslexia,
“Reading problems are not outgrown, they are persistent. Without identification and proven interventions, virtually all children who have reading difficulties early on will still struggle with reading when they are adults. It is possible to diagnose dyslexia early and accurately, to provide effective interventions, and for children who are dyslexic to reach adulthood feeling confident and able to achieve their potential. It is also possible to diagnose, to remediate, and to alleviate many of the problems of dyslexic adults."
If you think you or your child could have dsylexia, see the Signs of Dyslexia checklist. The diagnosis of dyslexia can only be made by a qualified professional, such as a psychologist.