The signs of Dyslexia vary by age and by child. For early Elementary-aged readers, here are 10 common signs of dyslexia:
Learning a letter or a word one day and then not remembering it the next.
Dyslexic learners tend to struggle with “working memory” which affects their ability to hold on to those letters and sounds in the long term.
Mistaking one letter for another letter.
Dyslexic learners might mistake letters that look similar like a “b” for a “d” or a “p” for a “q.” When writing they may also do the same thing. This is called “letter reversal.” Letter reversal or “mirror writing” is quite common in many children up until about the end of second grade. This would be a sign of dyslexia if other signs exist or the reversals persist.
Confusing letters that sound the same.
Some examples would be like “f” and “v” or “d” and “t.” For example, seeing the word “bat” and reading it “bad.”
Skipping words or substituting words.
When reading a line of text a dyslexic learner might skip words entirely or substitute a similar word. They often use illustrations or context to guess what words come next. They may even make up a line of text entirely. Example: A page has an illustration of a puppy running to see a bird in a tree. The text reads, “The puppy ran to see the bird.” The child might read “The dog went to find the bird.”
Turning a word inside out.
A dyslexic child might do what I call “turning a word inside out.” They might take a word like “left” and mistake it for “felt.” Effectively mixing up the letters and making something new. I’ve always been intrigued watching a child do this while reading and thought, “What a creative brain!!”
Trouble breaking apart words and putting them back together.
Dyslexic learners often struggle with breaking apart the individual sounds in words and then putting them back together to make a whole word.
Trouble remembering what they have read.
Dyslexic learners often struggle with comprehending what they are currently reading and have trouble recalling what they have just read. They are having to expend so much energy trying to read, that comprehension often goes by the wayside.
Having a hard time coming up with the right word.
Dyslexic kids might have a hard time coming up with the word they want to say. They might also mix up a word and say "plause" instead of "pause." Many children do this when learning to speak, but for dyslexic children word retrieval issues tend to persist.
Difficulty with Spelling.
Frequent spelling errors and difficulty in applying spelling rules.
Getting easily frustrated when it’s time to read.
They may make excuses, rush through things, quickly make up their own story for the book, or act out when they are asked to read. It is vitally important that teachers, parents and caregivers remain positive, calm, and patient when teaching a dyslexic learner. This will help them want to come back to the activity.
Remember, not all children with dyslexia present in the same way. If you are concerned your child may be dyslexic check out our free course "Understanding Dyslexia," or set up a parent coaching call.
