Definition of Dyslexia
- Dyslexia is a specific disability that is neurological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities.
- These difficulties typically (but not solely) result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction.
- Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.
- Although the disorder varies from person to person, common characteristics among people with dyslexia are difficulty with phonological processing (the manipulation of sounds), spelling, and/or rapid visual-verbal responding.
http://nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/reading/conditioninfo/pages/disorders.aspx
International Dyslexia Association (2002) http://eida.org/definition-of-dyslexia/
Learn About Dyslexia
- Read literature about dyslexia. Books, such as Overcoming Dyslexia by Dr. Sally Shaywitz, have been crucial
for many parents in understanding our children’s needs. - Check out IDA and MA IDA websites and literature.
- Take a parent training course in reading intervention so that you can help your
child at home. - Learn more about about state and federal special education laws by becoming a parent consultant through the
Federation for Children with Special Needs. - Take a parent advocacy course through a group such as SPAN to understand your child’s rights.
- Get second opinions through private testing by a university, learning center, educational consultant, speech pathologist, developmental pediatrician, occupational therapist, physical therapist and/or other specialists.
- Speak to advocates, educators in public schools and private practice, and special education attorneys.
- Attend seminars, get on mailing lists, and network with others from support groups and LD organizations in your area.