Dyslexia: Understanding Reading Challenges Beyond the Classroom
Dyslexia is a learning disorder that involves difficulty reading due to problems identifying speech sounds and learning how they relate to letters and words (decoding). While intelligence is not affected, this condition can significantly impact learning, self-esteem, and daily functioning if left unaddressed.
Contrary to common myths, eyes have nothing to do with this condition. Individuals see letters and words clearly but have difficulty processing and manipulating them because of brain differences, particularly in regions such as the Broca’s area. Dyslexia is not a reflection of effort or ability—rather, it reflects the way the brain processes language.
Symptoms
Symptoms may vary by age but generally include difficulties with reading fluency, spelling, and comprehension. Common signs are:
- Reading and writing slowly compared to peers.
- Confusing the order of letters in words.
- Reversing letters (for example, writing b instead of d).
- Poor or inconsistent spelling.
- Strong comprehension of verbal information but difficulty with written texts.
- Struggling to follow multi-step written instructions.
- Challenges in planning and organisation that affect academic and daily life tasks.
In younger children, early signs can include late talking, difficulty remembering nursery rhymes, or problems learning the alphabet. In teens and adults, difficulties often persist in reading speed, summarising written material, and managing work that requires heavy reading or writing.
Causes of Dyslexia
Research shows that dyslexia stems from biological and neurological differences in how the brain processes language. These differences often have a genetic basis, as this condition tends to run in families. Studies using brain imaging reveal that dyslexics individuals activate different neural pathways when reading, particularly in areas associated with phonological processing.
Environmental factors, such as limited access to early reading support, may compound the challenges but are not root causes. Dyslexia is a brain-based difference, not the result of laziness, poor teaching, or lack of intelligence.
The Emotional Impact
Dyslexia can affect much more than academics. Constant struggles with reading and spelling may lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and anxiety. Children may begin to believe they are “less capable” than their peers, while adults may avoid careers or hobbies that involve extensive reading or writing. Recognising dyslexia as a difference—not a deficit—is critical in reducing stigma and supporting emotional well-being.
How Can I Support My Child With Dyslexia?
Early and ongoing support is key to helping children with dyslexia thrive. Here are practical strategies parents and educators can use:
- Be a Reading Buddy: Read alongside your child, alternating sentences or paragraphs. This makes reading less daunting and provides a supportive model.
- Provide a Quiet Space: Create a calm, distraction-free environment for homework and reading practice.
- Use Large Print Texts: Larger, clearer fonts reduce strain and improve focus.
- Offer Audio Support: Audiobooks and text-to-speech software can supplement traditional reading and improve comprehension.
- Ask Guiding Questions: Pause during reading to ask questions that check understanding and encourage critical thinking.
- Use Colours to Highlight Words: Colour coding parts of text helps with recognition and retention. Visual supports can break down dense information.
- Implement Multisensory Learning: Incorporate visual, auditory, tactile (touch), and kinesthetic (movement) methods to strengthen learning pathways. For example:
- Visual learning: Colourful charts, illustrated storybooks, or word maps.
- Kinesthetic and tactile learning: Writing letters in sand, using clay to form words, or learning concepts through museum visits or interactive experiences.
“We should not only try to see the world through their eyes, but understand it through their brains.” – Sandman-Hurley
Support for Adults with Dyslexia
Dyslexia is lifelong, but adults can also benefit from practical strategies and accommodations:
- Using speech-to-text software for reports, notes, and emails.
- Breaking long texts into smaller sections and summarising each part.
- Leaning on strengths such as creativity, problem-solving, or oral communication.
- Seeking workplace accommodations, such as extra time for reading-intensive tasks.
Many successful entrepreneurs, artists, and scientists have dyslexia, showing that with the right support, it can coexist with high achievement.
Professional Interventions
If dyslexia is suspected, a comprehensive assessment by an educational psychologist or neuropsychologist is essential. Tailored intervention programs may include:
- Structured literacy approaches: Systematic, explicit teaching of phonics, spelling, and comprehension strategies.
- Specialist tutoring: One-on-one or small group instruction focusing on decoding and fluency.
- Therapeutic support: To address emotional stress, low self-esteem, or co-occurring challenges like anxiety and depression.
Changing the Way We View Dyslexia
Inability to read is not a sign of low intelligence. It reflects a different way of processing language. Many people with dyslexia are strong in creative, visual-spatial, or problem-solving skills. By shifting perspectives from deficit to difference, we can empower individuals to embrace their strengths.
Let’s change the way we view dyslexia. Watch the video attached to learn more.
Conclusion
Dyslexia affects millions of people worldwide, influencing how they read, write, and process information. With the right mix of accommodations, support, and understanding, individuals with dyslexia can excel academically, professionally, and personally. Awareness, early intervention, and compassion remain the keys to success.
We recommend This Video to learn more about Dyslexia.
About Us
We are a team of psychologists based in Singapore committed to supporting learning differences with empathy and expertise. At Psychology Blossom, we provide assessments, therapy, and tailored programs for children, adults, and families. Meet our Team.
Quick Links
Contact Us
150 Cecil Street #07-02 S069543
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 8am to 6pm
Saturday: 8am to 2pm
Sunday: 10am to 2pm (Online only)
Admin Hours
Monday to Friday: 8am to 5.30pm
Saturday: 8am to 2pm
© Copyright 2023 – Psychology Blossom | Privacy Policy | Terms
