A few answers about dyslexia…
What is dyslexia?
In simple language:
Dyslexia is a very common learning difficulty that can cause problems with reading, writing and spelling. Because some dyslexics have difficulty with memory, it can also affect maths and organisation.
The officially accepted definition set out by the Rose Report in 2009 and used by the British Dyslexia Association:
Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent word reading and spelling. Characteristic features of dyslexia are difficulties in phonological awareness, verbal memory and verbal processing speed. Dyslexia occurs across the range of intellectual abilities. It is best thought of as a continuum, not a distinct category, and there are no clear cut-off points. Co-occurring difficulties may be seen in aspects of language, motor co-ordination, mental calculation, concentration and personal organisation, but these are not, by themselves, markers of dyslexia. A good indication of the severity and persistence of dyslexic difficulties can be gained by examining how the individual responds or has responded to well-founded intervention.
The Rose Report was supposed to put in place legislation for dyslexic support! It hasn’t!
What does dyslexia feel like?
For me, it feels like I am one step behind everyone else, like somewhere along the line I missed a piece of puzzle. To begin with, you think it’s because you didn’t listen enough or concentrate enough or work hard enough. Being told you are lazy is very common.
I often feel like I am trying to achieve things with one hand tied behind my back. Our society is completely literacy heavy - I have had panic attacks about having to read and process information in banks, at school, in university, in supermarkets, restaurants even when using a drive-through in McDonald’s.
Sometimes it’s like you know you understand the world and how things work but as if you haven’t been given the full manual. I can feel the embarrassment creep up on me if I have to write in front of someone or if they are about to read something I have written. It has taken many years for me to not get grumpy with someone, even my husband, when they edit my work. You constantly feel like it’s a slight on your intelligence.
I call it a block - I know what I want to say, I know I can do the task (filling in forms or completely study) but my brain and pencil won’t work together.
Five facts about dyslexia
1: 10-20% of people have dyslexia
That’s as many as 1 in 5 people. It affects as many boys as girls.
For most people who struggle to read and write, the cause will be dyslexia.
2. Dyslexics can be taught to read.
Some dyslexics already know how to read but they struggle with spelling and writing.
3. Intelligence is not affected.
Dyslexia does not mean a child is unintelligent, but it doesn’t mean they are a genius either. Like all people, some are average and a few are very smart. Most dyslexics have an average IQ.
4. Overcoming difficulties
Early identification followed up with right teaching approach gives people the best chance of overcoming their difficulties. Dyslexics are more likely to succeed at school, in jobs and life, if they have had the right kind of teaching and support when they are younger.
5. Dyslexia is genetic
It’s passed on through families. Where a birth parent has dyslexia then there is a 50% chance that their child has dyslexia. Where both parents have dyslexia, it is almost certain that children will also have dyslexia