Dyslexia is frequently misunderstood. At a basic level, it falls under a set of specific learning disabilities. If we consider the definition of a “specific learning disability,” it is considered a disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or using spoken or written language.

Dyslexia is defined as a specific learning disability that is neurological in origin, and is characterized by difficulties with accurate or fluent word recognition. While most people consider dyslexia as seeing words in reverse, reading “was” as “saw,” it actually goes beyond that. Dyslexia can be phonological in nature where the individual has difficulty with sound letter association and sound blending. It may also have a visual perceptual component.

Visual perceptual deficits impact what a person sees when reading, which results in letter reversals. Naturally, these visual perceptual deficits can also interfere with what an individual see when reading. In addition, an individual may have trouble with visual motor skills.  In truth, visual motor skills are responsible for an individual’s ability to use smooth eye movements that are required to sequence letters in words and not lose your place when reading. Individuals with visual motor difficulties may skip words or lines when reading.

Individuals with dyslexia may also have trouble understanding what they read.  Difficulties in reading comprehension is typically a result of struggles with oral language.  Dyslexia can also affect spelling and written language skills.

While dyslexia may present lifelong challenges for individuals, the effects do not need to be devastating. Remediation of dyslexia is possible with proper diagnosis of the underlying problems associated with an individual’s difficulties and the skilled intervention of professionals. Speech-language pathologists are specialists capable of identifying and treating underlying phonological and language deficits your child may need for developing reading skills. Occupational therapists are professionals trained in diagnosing and providing intervention for deficits in visual perceptual and visual motor disorders that will lead to improved success with reading.

While dyslexia can be a disadvantage, it is not a life sentence. With a proper diagnosis and treatment from skilled, passionate speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists, your young one can soon be saying goodbye to dyslexia and hello to lifelong skills that allow for success. So stop struggling and start your joyful journey today with Greater Learning LP as partners for success.

For more information visit www.greaterlearninglp.com, call 210.349.1415 and find us on Facebook!