Recognizing the Signs of Dyslexia in Children: A Guide for Parents
Is your child struggling with reading, spelling, or writing more than their peers? You might be wondering: Does my child have dyslexia? As a dyslexia therapist, I work with many families who ask that same question. Knowing what to look for is the first step to helping your child succeed.
This guide will help you recognize the signs of dyslexia in children, understand what they mean, and know when to seek help.
What Is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a learning difference that affects how the brain processes written and spoken language. It's not a sign of low intelligence or laziness. In fact, many children with dyslexia are highly intelligent and creative—but they process language differently.
Dyslexia primarily affects:
Reading
Spelling
Writing
Sometimes speech and memory
Early intervention is key, which is why it's important for parents to know the signs.
Common Signs of Dyslexia by Age Group:
Signs of Dyslexia in Preschoolers:
Delayed speech development compared to peers
Trouble learning nursery rhymes or rhyming words
Difficulty recognizing letters or remembering the alphabet
Struggles with pronouncing words or mixing up sounds (e.g., “pasghetti” instead of “spaghetti”)
Signs of Dyslexia in Early Elementary (Ages 5–8):
Slow or labored reading
Difficulty sounding out simple words (decoding)
Struggles to connect letters with sounds (phonemic awareness)
Poor or inconsistent spelling
Avoids reading aloud or writing tasks
Signs of Dyslexia in Older Children (Ages 9+):
Reads slowly or skips words and lines
Struggles with reading comprehension
Writes with poor structure or grammar
Continues to have trouble spelling even simple words
May have strong verbal skills but poor written output
Strengths of Children with Dyslexia
While dyslexia presents challenges, children with dyslexia often have amazing strengths, such as:
Creative thinking and storytelling
Strong problem-solving abilities
Talent in art, music, or hands-on activities
High emotional intelligence
Focusing on these strengths helps build confidence and resilience.
How to Tell If Your Child Has Dyslexia
If you notice several of these signs of dyslexia in your child, trust your instincts. Here's what you can do next:
1. Talk to Your Child’s Teacher
Share your concerns and ask for their observations. Teachers often see patterns in learning that may indicate a problem.
2. Request a Dyslexia Evaluation
You can request a formal assessment through your child’s school or seek a private evaluation by a specialist. A comprehensive evaluation can confirm whether your child has dyslexia.
3. Seek Help from a Dyslexia Therapist
Working with a certified dyslexia therapist can make a world of difference. Evidence-based approaches like the Orton-Gillingham method and structured literacy programs are especially effective.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Dyslexia doesn’t go away—but with the right support, children can thrive in school and beyond. The earlier dyslexia is identified, the sooner you can get your child the help they need to succeed with confidence.
Final Thoughts
If you're wondering how to tell if your child has dyslexia, you're not alone. Many parents face the same questions. By understanding the signs and taking early action, you're giving your child a powerful gift: the chance to reach their full potential.
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.
