Struggles with reading

Today’s post is the first of a series of posts I want to do about learning disabilities, as many people are diagnosed with them. Some are diagnosed with ADHD and a learning disability, while others with just one of them.

The first learning disability I want to discuss is dyslexia.

So, what is dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a learning disability that affects and involves reading. Those who have dyslexia have a difficult time connecting letters with sounds, read at a slower pace, and struggle with understanding what they are reading.

Dyslexia is a common disorder and doesn’t have anything to do with intelligence.

Who and how does affect people?

It affects people of all ages. Kids, teens and adults alike.

Dyslexia is often diagnosed after the child starts school and there are various symptoms, which will vary in severity depending on the person.

Some symptoms and signs of dyslexia include:

• Struggles with reading and reads below the level for the person’s age group
• Difficulty understanding what they hear
• Struggles when given more than one instruction at a time.
• Difficulty spelling
• Difficulty finding the right words to express their thoughts

These are just some examples of how dyslexia affects kids, teens and adults. There are signs that may be seen in early childhood as well, although may not always be very noticeable in all.

What are the treatments or ways to help?

Much like ADHD and many disorders, there are no cure. However, there are ways to help those with dyslexia.

Schools may come together with the parents and discuss the best ways to support the child with dyslexia. Many may come with an IEP that meets the child’s needs. Teachers may even make some accommodations within the classroom.

Tutors may also help and give extra support.

There are different learning strategies that can help. For instance, reading in a quiet room with no distractions, or reading along with a recording.

Attitude is another big one. Children are affected by the attitude of the adults around them. When parents and teachers are encouraging the child, it will definitely have an impact on the child.

Final thoughts.

Dyslexia isn’t just seeing or reading letters backwards, like many think. There is a lot more too it. Kids and adults with dyslexia struggle with various things related to reading and writing. Much like anything, support is definitely important and beneficial to those struggling with dyslexia.