What is Dyslexia?

The Rose Report (2009) definition of dyslexia, as adapted by the British Dyslexia Association, states that it is a learning difficulty that primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent word reading and spelling. However, I find it essential to include that it is an "unexpected difficulty with reading" (Shaywitz, 2020), as it is not affected by intelligence.

Characteristics

Difficulty with Reading: Individuals may struggle with accurate and fluent word recognition, leading to slow or inaccurate reading. This can affect comprehension and hinder the understanding of written text.

Spelling Challenges: Dyslexia often involves difficulties with spelling due to struggles in associating sounds with letters or remembering the correct sequence of letters in words.

Difficulty Decoding Words: Difficulty in decoding or sounding out unfamiliar words is typical. This can lead to challenges in breaking down words into individual sounds.

Writing Challenges: Dyslexia may manifest as difficulties in organising thoughts on paper, forming sentences, or expressing ideas coherently in writing.

Poor Phonological Awareness: Individuals may have trouble identifying and manipulating the sounds in spoken language, which can impact reading and spelling abilities.

Directional Confusion: Dyslexia might cause confusion with directions (left/right), difficulties in telling time, or challenges with spatial orientation.

Varied Cognitive Strengths: Despite reading difficulties, individuals with dyslexia often exhibit strengths in areas such as creativity, problem-solving, or visual thinking.

Family History: Dyslexia often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component.

Impact on Learning

Dyslexia's impact on learning encompasses challenges in reading fluency, comprehension, spelling, and expressing thoughts in writing. These difficulties often affect academic achievement, making it harder for individuals to keep pace with peers in subjects reliant on reading. Moreover, persistent struggles may impact self-esteem, leading to feelings of frustration or inadequacy. Learning might take longer, affecting the overall learning pace. The emotional toll can include stress, anxiety, and a sense of isolation in academic and social settings. Without appropriate support, dyslexia could limit access to educational opportunities and potential career paths. However, with tailored interventions, accommodations, and early identification, individuals with dyslexia can develop strategies to navigate these challenges and reach their full academic potential.

Dyslexia Specialist Assessor or Educational Psychologist?

Both Specialist Teachers and Educational Psychologists have the ability to assess for dyslexia. Educational Psychologists have access to cognitive ability tests that Specialist Teachers cannot use, and these tests have a slightly higher number of "sub-tests". Both Specialist Teachers and Educational Psychologists can provide suggestions on the best ways to support individuals. Specialist Teachers, due to their extensive teaching experience, usually have a better grasp of the classroom environment, allowing them to offer more specific recommendations. However, this can vary depending on each assessor's background and experience. If there is a likelihood of your child needing an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) in the future, I will be able to make that recommendation.