Learning & School
Dyslexia (reading difficulty)
Dyslexia is a neurodevelopmental learning disorder involving difficulty identifying speech sounds and learning how they relate to letters and words, despite average to above-average intelligence and adequate instruction. It is caused by individual differences in the parts of the brain that process language, not by a lack of effort.
Also searched as: Reading disability.
What the evidence says
Common
specific learning disorders including dyslexia are among the most frequently identified childhood learning conditions
- Slow, effortful or inaccurate reading for the child's age and instruction
- Difficulty connecting letters and sounds when decoding words
- Reading that does not become faster or more accurate with practice alone
- Impact on academic performance and daily reading-based tasks
- Can go unrecognised for years, sometimes into adulthood
This is a guide, not a diagnosis. Only a qualified professional can assess.
- Comprehensive assessment of reading, decoding and related skills
- Multisensory structured literacy programmes covering phonemic awareness, decoding and spelling
- Individualised education plans and school accommodations such as extended time or audio materials
- Speech-language therapy where language difficulties overlap
- Counselling support for the emotional impact of ongoing reading struggle
Not sure yet?
Check the signs in someone you love: Learning difficulty: signs in my child
Thinking about your child's schoolwork over the past year, how often do you notice these? Scored on your device only, nothing is stored, and it is not a diagnosis.
The care pathway
What each professional actually does here
Care for this concern is usually shared. Here is how each discipline contributes, so nothing feels like a black box.
Special educators build individualised education plans and deliver evidence-based, multisensory reading programmes that strengthen phonological processing and decoding. They offer ongoing classroom support and collaborate with parents and teachers.
Explore this servicePsychologists conduct assessments to understand a child's specific reading challenges and provide counselling to address stress or self-esteem issues that come with struggling to read in a classroom setting.
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The disciplines involved
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Remedial Education
Remedial Education
Individualised academic support for children with learning differences, built on strengths rather than deficits.
Learn morePsychology
Psychology & Therapy
Evidence-informed therapy for adolescents, adults, couples and older adults- held in a space where you are understood as a whole person.
Learn moreAssessments
Assessments & Psychological Testing
Comprehensive assessments that bring clarity for ADHD, learning disability, autism and developmental or psychological concerns.
Learn moreQuestions
Dyslexia (reading difficulty): questions people ask us
Short, honest answers about who helps, what to expect and how care is coordinated.
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive assessment including standardised tests of reading and related skills, alongside a review of educational and medical history.
Yes, but with the right support, people with dyslexia develop effective strategies and go on to succeed academically and professionally.
It primarily affects reading, spelling and writing, but it can also touch organisational skills and memory. We look at the broader picture, not just reading.
Yes. Assessment and support are possible at any age.
No. Dyslexia can be misunderstood as laziness; part of our work is educating teachers, peers and parents to dispel this misconception.
Take the next step
Tell us what's happening, we'll suggest where to start
You don't have to choose the right professional yourself- we match you after a first conversation.
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