How Is Dyslexia Diagnosed? A Guide for Parents
If you’ve noticed your child struggling with reading, writing, or spelling despite their best efforts, you may be wondering if dyslexia could be the cause. As a dyslexia therapist, I often work with families who feel unsure about what to do next.
One of the most common questions I hear is: “How do I know if my child has dyslexia?”
In this post, I’ll walk you through what dyslexia is, how it’s diagnosed, and what steps you can take to get support for your child.
What Is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a specific learning difference that affects how the brain processes written language. It is not related to intelligence or effort—many children with dyslexia are bright, creative, and hardworking. They simply process language in a different way, which can make reading, writing and spelling more difficult.
Early signs may include trouble recognizing letters, difficulty sounding out words, or avoiding reading altogether. Every child is different, but if these struggles persist, it may be time to consider a formal evaluation.
How Is Dyslexia Diagnosed?
Diagnosing dyslexia involves a comprehensive evaluation. It’s not based on a single test, but rather a combination of assessments that look at how your child thinks, learns, and uses language. Here’s what the process typically includes:
1. Background Information and History
The evaluator (often a psychologist or educational specialist) will gather information about your child’s development, medical history, early literacy milestones, and school performance. This may include:
Parent and/or teacher questionnaires
Report cards or standardized test scores
Information about family history of reading difficulties
2. Academic Achievement Testing
This part of the evaluation looks at how your child performs in key academic areas, especially:
Reading accuracy and fluency
Reading comprehension
Spelling
Written expression
It helps identify specific areas of weakness that align with dyslexia.
3. Phonological Processing Tests
Children with dyslexia often struggle with phonological awareness—the ability to hear and manipulate sounds in words. Specialized tests assess skills like:
Sound blending
Rhyming
Segmenting words into individual sounds
4. Other Considerations
It’s important to rule out other factors that might affect reading, such as attention issues, vision or hearing problems, or lack of instruction. The evaluator may screen for these to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Who Can Diagnose Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is most often diagnosed by:
Educational psychologists
Neuropsychologists
School psychologists (in some school systems)
Trained specialists with credentials in learning disabilities
In the U.S., the diagnosis can be made through a private evaluation or sometimes through your child’s school, depending on local policies.
What Happens After a Diagnosis?
If your child is diagnosed with dyslexia, you’re not alone—and there is help. A diagnosis is the first step toward getting the right support. This might include:
Structured literacy intervention (like Orton-Gillingham-based programs)
Accommodations at school (such as extra time, audiobooks, or reduced homework load)
Building your child’s confidence and self-advocacy skills
With the right instruction and support, children with dyslexia can learn to read and thrive in school.
Final Thoughts
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed when you first begin this journey. But remember: identifying dyslexia early makes a big difference. The earlier we understand how your child learns, the sooner we can help them succeed.
If you suspect your child may have dyslexia and need guidance on where to start, don’t hesitate to reach out. You are your child’s greatest advocate—and you’re not in this alone.
Want to Learn More?
Need guidance or support? We are here to help. Feel free to call us at 972-974-4065 or email at elizabeth@lightworkslearningcenter.com or schedule a FREE consultation here.
