What is Dyslexia

What is Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a difficulty in learning to read, speak, or write. It is a difference in brain organization that is present at birth & results in a struggle when trying to learn, remember, or express information. It is a learning disability that alters the way the brain processes written material. The effects of the disorder vary from person to person. In fact, the only common trait among people with dyslexia is that they read at levels significantly lower than typical for people of their age and intelligence.
Experts say it occurs in up to 15% of the general population. Although dyslexia continues through life, it is very possible to learn to deal effectively with dyslexia & accomplish high levels of success.
The most universal problems are:
weak recognition of numbers, letters & words
difficulty remembering numbers & letters in sequence
poor manipulation of numbers & letters
poor spelling
To suspect a diagnosis of dyslexia, a cluster of symptoms must be evidenced - not just one symptom. Symptoms may appear different in childhood or in adolescence & adulthood.
Dyslexia can result in a severe loss of self-esteem, limited friendships, & failure in school & career.
These effects can be prevented by:
early diagnosis
special remediation using multisensory techniques
teaching of coping skills
Dyslexia Is ...
not a sign of poor intelligence
not the result of laziness or of not caring
not a disease
cannot be cured with pills or diets
not an eye problem
not outgrown


but... dyslexics can learn how to learnthe good news is that with appropriate education, understanding, & time, many dyslexics learn to read & write & to develop their special abilities & talents. Many successful people: scientists, artists, athletes & world leaders have dyslexia.
Dyslexia is difficulty with language. For people with dyslexia, intelligence is not the problem. The problem is language.
People with dyslexia may struggle with reading, spelling, understanding language they hear, or expressing themselves clearly in speaking or in writing.
An unexpected gap exists between their potential for learning and their school achievement.
Typical responses when people find out that they or someone they know is dyslexic include dismay and anxiety – like the feelings people have when they find out they have a serious disease. Dyslexia is not a disease, but it is a lifelong problem that presents challenges that need to be overcome daily. The good news is that with proper diagnosis, appropriate education, hard work and support from family, friends, teachers and others, people who are dyslexic can lead successful and productive lives.
The first step in helping a person with dyslexia is to give emotional support and understanding. That’s one reason why you’re here right now – to find out how you can give that support. And that’s why we have this website – to help you with information and support.