There are many types of learning disability of which dyslexia is only one.
Signs of dyslexia in children aged 5 to 12 include:
- problems learning the names and sounds of letters
- spelling that’s unpredictable and inconsistent
- putting letters and figures the wrong way round (such as writing “6” instead of “9”, or “b” instead of “d”)
- confusing the order of letters in words
- reading slowly or making errors when reading aloud
- visual disturbances when reading (for example, a child may describe letters and words as seeming to move around or appear blurred)
- answering questions well orally, but having difficulty writing the answer down
- difficulty carrying out a sequence of directions
- struggling to learn sequences, such as days of the week or the alphabet
- slow writing speed
- poor handwriting
- problems copying written language and taking longer than normal to complete written work
- poor phonological awareness and word attack skills
Adults with dyslexia may experience some or all of the following:
- A difference between standard of verbal and written work
- Difficulties with understanding reading material and / or slow reading speed
- Persistent spelling mistakes, even with easy or common words
- Difficulty with structuring written work
- Note-taking difficulties
Planning and organisational difficulties - Handwriting difficulty, especially when writing under pressure
- Directional confusion
- Difficulties with basic number concepts
- Difficulties finding and pronouncing certain words
- Low concentration levels
- Visual disturbance when reading e.g: blurry or moving text
- Fatigue