How to Know If a Child Has Dyslexia

A lifelong neurological learning disability, dyslexia, is best treated when diagnosed as early as possible in children. People with dyslexia can be of average and above average intelligence, yet have varying degrees of difficulty with oral and written communication. With early diagnosis and treatment, children can lead successful lives in school and later in their careers.

Instructions

• 1

  Learn to recognize such warning signs in a child as slow or delayed reading and reading comprehension skills, trouble with spelling, problems learning basic sequential information (alphabet, numbers and days of week), difficulty with math computation and difficulty organizing thoughts, time or events.

• 2

  Find a trained professional in your school, school district or area who can help identify dyslexia in your child.

• 3

  Have your child evaluated by a trained professional who will look for specific reading skills, both strengths and weaknesses, as well as problems with oral and written language. They also will take into account such underlying factors as family history, IQ and background in education.

• 4

  Get a second opinion by another trained professional if you feel it's necessary. The problems associated with dyslexia vary widely with each child, and it can be a complicated disorder to diagnose.