Dyslexia Signs at Every Age: How Assessments Work and When to Get Support
Dyslexia is a common specific learning difficulty that affects reading, writing and processing skills. Around 10% of the UK population are thought to be dyslexic, and many reach adulthood without ever receiving a diagnosis. When dyslexia goes unidentified, everyday tasks can feel harder than they should – and those challenges often continue into later life.
Early diagnosis and the right support can make a big difference – and we summarise how dyslexia presents itself at different ages, and what to expect from a formal diagnosis.
What Are the Signs of Dyslexia?
Dyslexia looks different at each stage of life. While no two individuals experience it in the same way, there are common signs to look out for.
Dyslexia can affect individuals at any age. Without identification and diagnosis, it can become a barrier to learning, confidence and everyday life.
In Children
Difficulties often become noticeable when a child starts school and begins learning to read and write. Common signs include:
- Struggling to recognise letters or link sounds
- Difficulty with simple rhymes (e.g., cat/mat)
- Reversing or confusing letters (e.g., writing big instead of dig)
- Slow progress with reading or spelling
In Teenagers
As academic demands increase, difficulties may begin to surface:
- Inconsistent or unusual spelling patterns
- Difficulty planning, structuring or completing essays
- Slow reading speed
- Frustration, low confidence or emotional difficulties linked to schoolwork
In Adults
Many adults live with undiagnosed dyslexia. Common characteristics include:
- Difficulty completing forms or processing written information
- Mixing up dates, times or appointments
- Feeling less capable than peers despite strong practical or creative skills
- Avoiding reading‑heavy tasks
Why a Dyslexia Assessment Is Important
A formal dyslexia assessment provides:
- Clarity about the nature of the difficulties
- Evidence‑based recommendations for support
- Strategies to make reading, writing and organisation easier
- Recognition in education and the workplace
For children and young people, an assessment can transform their learning experience and later give support during exams and further education. For adults, it can open doors to workplace adjustments, training opportunities and improved confidence.
How to Get a Dyslexia Assessment
- Start With Your Child’s School
If you’re concerned about your child, speak to their teacher or SENCo.
2. Qualified, Accredited Assessors
Dyslexia First is a member of:
- SpLD Assessment Standards Committee (SASC)
- British Dyslexia Association (BDA)
- Assessment Practicing Certificate (APC)
These accreditations mean we are fully qualified to assess for dyslexia and exam access arrangements, up to age 24.
If you’re not based in the North West, you can search for qualified assessors on the websites noted above.
What the Assessment Involves
We work closely with schools to assess:
- Verbal ability
- Non verbal ability
- Phonological Memory
- Phonological Awareness
- Phonological Processing
- Literacy skills
- Verbal Working Memory
Blog: What happens during a dyslexia assessment
Nationally Recognised Assessments
All assessments are validated and approved by:
• Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ)
• SpLD Assessment Standards Committee (SASC)
This ensures the results are recognised in schools, colleges, universities and workplaces across the UK.
What can you use the dyslexia assessment report for?
· Your comprehensive report is a powerful document that will help you, or your child, live life to your full potential.
· The diagnosis of dyslexia is recognised under the Equality Act 2010 and will open doors allowing the individual to reach their full potential.
· Adults undergoing assessment are entitled to reasonable adjustments in the workplace.
· University Students will be able to use the report to apply for the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA).
· A diagnostic report will help schools to ensure that the pupil’s needs are being met, either through appropriate differentiation or individual support
About Dyslexia First
Dyslexia First provides high-quality dyslexia assessments for children and adults across the North West.
Founder Michala Morton has over 20 years’ experience in Special Educational Needs and works closely with The British Dyslexia Association and The Dyslexia Association.
Based in Newton-le-Willows, Merseyside, Dyslexia First is easily accessible by train, with direct links to Liverpool, Manchester and surrounding areas.
By helping you access the right support, we help you to reach your fullest potential.
Contact Dyslexia First michala@dyslexia-first.co.uk or 07711 904 589.
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