Dyslexia is a neurological learning difference associated with specific challenges in reading, writing, and spelling – but also specific gifts in creativity, out-of-the-box thinking, spatial design, and problem-solving. Affecting 1 in 5, dyslexia is the most common learning difference.
Primarily, it is characterized by deficits in word recognition and decoding skills, spelling abilities, and phonological awareness. Secondary characteristics may include poor reading comprehension, poor written expression, and difficulty organizing information for study and recall. With proper intervention, students with dyslexia can acquire the necessary skills for academic success.
Dyslexia can be genetic, and ranges on a continuum of mild to severe. It is important to keep in mind that people with dyslexia are not lacking in motivation or intelligence. In fact, they are typically average to above average in intelligence. Diagnosis needs to be made by competent psychologists who understand the processing deficits that are linked with the struggles associated with dyslexia.
