Decoding Dyslexia NEW BRUNSWICK
WHAT IS DYSLEXIA?
Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent work recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth in vocabulary and background knowledge.
(International Dyslexia Association)
Put simply:
Dyslexia takes away an individual’s ability to read quickly and automatically, and to retrieve spoken words easily, but it does not dampen their creativity and ingenuity.
(The Yale Centre for Dyslexia and Creativity)
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Dyslexia affects up to 15 - 20% of the population. 1 in 5.
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Dyslexia is the most common learning disability.
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Dyslexia is not curable but is treated with specific education approaches and techniques. The best time for intervention is before grade 3.
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Children with Dyslexia are NOT slow in learning, is NOT a disease, and is not a brain injury. More homework and tutoring without appropriate instruction will not work for dyslexia.
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Reading out loud to dyslexic children provides access to rich stories, builds vocabulary, and fosters a love of reading.
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35% of all dyslexics dropout of high school. 50% of those involved in rehabilitation of drugs and alcohol are dyslexic.
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BUT a fully empowered dyslexic can achieve wonders:
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35% of entrepreneurs are dyslexic
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40% are self-made millionaires
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1 out of 2 astronauts are dyslexic
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(International Dyslexia Association)
The signs of dyslexia can appear as early as preschool.
If your child has 2 or more signs of dyslexia, and especially if there are learning problems with other members of the family, we recommend that you have your child assessed as soon as possible. For more information on screening and assessment please contact the Learning Disabilities Association of New Brunswick.
DYSLEXIA FACTS
Some people with dyslexia also have dysgraphia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, or attention & memory issues that can affect their learning and hence, academic success. In New Brunswick these, along with dyslexia, are often referred to as Specific Learning Disorders.
Between 25-40% of children with dyslexia also have ADHD, and conversely, approximately 25% of children with ADHD also have dyslexia. Without remediation children develop behavioural issues overshadowing dyslexia.
Dysgraphia is difficulties with spelling, poor, handwriting, and trouble putting thoughts to paper. Dyscalculia is a challenge processing math. Dyspraxia is difficulty in carrying out an action.