Every October, Dyslexia Awareness Week serves as a vital reminder of the unique challenges faced by children, young people and adults with dyslexia and the importance of creating a more inclusive and supportive world for them. It’s a week to celebrate strengths, raise awareness, and advocate for better understanding and support. Dyslexia is a common learning difference, affecting around 10-15% of the global population. Raising awareness about dyslexia is crucial for increasing understanding, promoting early diagnosis, and supporting effective interventions.
What is Dyslexia?
There is no universally agreed definition or criteria to diagnosing dyslexia, but one commonly cited definition by Snowling (2000) is:
‘Dyslexia is a specific form of language impairment that affects the way in which the brain encodes phonological features of spoken words. The core deficit is in phonological processing and stems from poorly specified phonological processing. Dyslexia specifically affects the development of reading and spelling skills but its effects can be modified through development leading to a variety of behavioural manifestations.’
Reading the sentence above requires you to identify and recognise each individual letters, each whole word, and connect this with the sound (phonological representations) of each word. For people with dyslexia, this process is disrupted, as the phonological representation of words are often partially associated with each letter strings. Dyslexia varies from person to person. Some children may have trouble reading fluently, others may struggle with spelling, while some may find it hard to remember new words. It is important for parents, teachers, and peers to understand that dyslexia is different for each child and that their difficulties do not define their abilities. We know that dyslexia can often co-occur with other neurodevelopmental or learning difficulties like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dyspraxia and so on.
Breaking Down the Myths
One of the biggest barriers to understanding dyslexia is the many myths surrounding it. Let's debunk some of the most common misconceptions:
Dyslexia is related to intelligence: This is completely false! Famous dyslexics include Albert Einstein, Leonardo da Vinci, Richard Branson and Steve Jobs—clearly dyslexia is not related to intelligence!
People with dyslexia see letters backwards: While some dyslexics may reverse letters like "b" and "d," this is not the core issue. The main challenge lies in processing the sounds that letters and words make, making reading less fluent.
Dyslexia only affects reading: While reading is the most commonly affected skill, dyslexia can also impact spelling, writing, and even math. It is a multi-faceted condition that requires a nuanced understanding.
Early Identification of Dyslexia in Young People
Recognising the early signs of dyslexia is crucial to providing timely support and improve educational outcomes. The earlier a child is diagnosed, the faster they can receive the help they need to develop coping strategies and build confidence. Some signs of dyslexia in young children include:
Difficulty learning the alphabet or muddling up words
Struggling to rhyme words
Trouble recognising letters and sounds
Reading slower, with unusual pronunciation
Consistent issues with spelling, writing letters backwards or using capital letters
Frustration or avoidance of reading-related activities
As children grow older, they may start to feel frustrated when they can’t keep up with their peers in reading or writing. This frustration can sometimes lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, or even a dislike of school. By raising awareness of dyslexia, we can ensure children receive the support they need before these feelings develop. Support might include phonics-based interventions, multi-sensory learning techniques, and assistive technologies.
A comprehensive assessment is important to not only identify dyslexia but also to ensure an individualised learning plan that draws on a young person's individual strengths, whilst supporting areas of difficulty. This includes looking at a young persons overall cognitive ability (IQ), which includes their verbal abilities, non-verbal abilities, working memory and processing speed. It should also include assessment of other aspects of cognition, such as attention, academic attainment as well as literacy skills (reading, accuracy, speed, fluency, comprehension, spelling and handwriting). It is important to consider specific tests of phonological skills and language. Depending on their individual needs, a child may require an Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP) to assist them in accessing the correct level of support in school. The school Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator can advise best on this, in keeping with the JCQ guidelines.
If you would like to discuss assessing for dyslexia, get in touch with us as The Lotus Psychology Practice. We often work alongside schools in supporting children in the education environment.
Supporting Individuals with Dyslexia
Support for individuals with dyslexia extends beyond the classroom. Here are a few strategies that can make a significant difference:
Accommodations in school: Extra time on tests, audiobooks, and oral exams can help students with dyslexia perform to their full potential.
Assistive technology: Tools like speech-to-text software, screen readers, and apps that convert text to audio can empower individuals with dyslexia to access information in ways that work best for them.
Positive reinforcement: Focusing on strengths rather than challenges is key. Individuals with dyslexia are often creative, innovative thinkers. Encouraging these strengths can boost self-esteem and motivation.
Teacher and peer support: A supportive and understanding environment in schools and workplaces can help reduce the stigma around dyslexia and create an inclusive atmosphere.
Read our previous blog article - A Teacher's Guide to Dyslexia here.
Parents Role in supporting Children with Dyslexia
Parents play a critical role in a child’s journey with dyslexia. A home environment that offers understanding and encouragement can make all the difference in a child’s self-esteem and academic growth. Here’s how parents can offer support:
Educate Yourself: Learn about dyslexia so you can better understand what your child is going through. Being informed enables you to advocate for them in school and at home.
Be Patient and Supportive: Children with dyslexia may take longer to read, write, or complete homework. Patience and encouragement go a long way in building their confidence.
Celebrate Their Strengths: Every child has strengths. Whether your child excels at art, sports, or problem-solving, celebrate these qualities to remind them of their abilities and potential.
Seek Help Early: Work closely with your child’s teachers and educational professionals to ensure they receive any accommodations or interventions that can help them thrive.
Building Confidence: One of the biggest challenges faced by children and young people with dyslexia is maintaining self-esteem. Because dyslexia often leads to difficulties in school, young people can begin to feel "less than" their peers. Highlight important role models, actors, scientists or artists with dyslexia.
Raising Awareness
Dyslexia Awareness Week isn’t just about acknowledging a learning difference; it’s about creating a world where children with dyslexia feel understood, supported, and empowered to succeed. By raising awareness in schools, homes, and communities, we can help children and young people with dyslexia reach their full potential.
Let’s use Dyslexia Awareness Week as an opportunity to advocate for better support in schools, educate ourselves about the realities of dyslexia, and encourage young people to embrace their differences. Every child deserves the chance to learn and grow in an environment that celebrates their unique strengths.
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