However, reading difficulty isn’t the only feature of this learning disability.
It can also make it challenging to express your ideas in an organized way.
At a Glance
Dyslexia makes it hard for your brain to process written language.
Marc Romanelli / Getty Images
Rather, it’s linked to how your brain handles reading and writing.
What Is Dyslexia?
People with dyslexia may struggle to understand, learn, and use new words.
Dyslexia can also lead to trouble buildingself-esteemand difficulty reading or speaking with confidence.
Still, dyslexia is a lifelong learning disability that requires management and support.
People with dyslexia may also have trouble with writing and speaking, or any kind of language processing.
The way dyslexia presents also varies according to how old you are.
Lets take a look at common dyslexia signs, by age group.
you might get diagnosed and treated for dyslexia at any time in life.
However, the earlier you are diagnosed, the easier it may be to treat.
Typically, children who arestruggling with readingin elementary school are evaluated for dyslexia.
Often, their parents or teachers notice symptoms that may indicate dyslexia.
Diagnosis of dyslexia is usually done by a licensed educational psychologist.
There are no blood tests or medical evaluations needed to diagnose dyslexia.
Instead, evaluative tests are used.
These tests look at a persons ability to decode words, read fluently, spell, and recognize words.
Writing and speaking skills may also be evaluated.
Examples of tests used to diagnose dyslexia include:
What Causes Dyslexia?
Treatment for Dyslexia
There is no medication that can treat dyslexia.
Parents often have to work alongside school officials and staff to implement this plan.
These may include extra time on exams, homework, and instruction from a reading and dyslexia specialist.
Supporting your child emotionally is just as important as getting them the services they need to manage theirdisability.
Many children with dyslexia struggle withself-esteemissues.
Encourage your child and remind them that dyslexia is not their fault.
It has no bearing on their intelligence or ability to succeed in life.
This message can be empowering.
With the right support and accommodations, you could find ways of managing your learning disability effectively.
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Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity.Signs of dyslexia.
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International Dyslexia Association.Testing and evaluation.
International Dyslexia Association.Frequently asked questions.
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