Dyslexia

Although dyslexia is due to differences in your brain, no blood tests or lab screenings can detect it. Instead, careful evaluation and testing of common signs identify someone with this reading problem.

Testing for dyslexia should look at:

• Decoding (reading unfamiliar words by sounding them out).
• Oral language skills.
• Reading fluency and reading comprehension.
• Spelling.
• Vocabulary.
• Word recognition.

When should I have my child tested for dyslexia?

Typically, early testing is best for learning disabilities. Your child can begin learning new reading strategies sooner with an early diagnosis. Many children show reading problems before third grade, but the reading demands increase with age, and it’s important to diagnose any learning disorder as early as possible.

Your child’s school may recommend an evaluation for learning disabilities with a certified educational psychologist. Ask the school administration for help finding one available to you.