At Dyslexia First we consider dyslexia a superpower. A superpower that with better awareness and early diagnosis, can unlock huge potential. You see, there’s lots of reasons to be relentlessly positive about dyslexia.
Dyslexia affects the ability to read, write, and spell fluently and accurately. However, it does not only affect these skills. Dyslexics may have different methods of processing and remembering information they see and hear, which can affect learning and the acquisition of literacy skills. Dyslexia can also have an impact on other areas such as organisational skills.
In this blog, we explore a popular area of speculation, whether Dyslexia is genetic. It is time to put your biology hats on as we guide you through the fascinating research behind this area. Don’t worry, we promise to keep the science jargon to a minimum.
Dyslexia and the family tree
We all know how frustrating it is finding out that thanks to your great grandad, you could be turning grey at 25. But did you know that dyslexia too is often found to be passed down the family tree? This makes a strong argument for there being a genetic component in whether someone will or will not have dyslexia (or possess superpowers, as we like to think of it!).
Take Cher, celebrity, singer, and actor, as an example. Cher has both dyscalculia and dyslexia, but she was only diagnosed later in life when doctors found her son to have dyslexic traits. Whilst Cher had to struggle throughout her time in education, her son was able to receive the support he needed to prosper.
If we lean a little bit more into the science, research suggests that there are particular genetic traits found in those with dyslexia. These particular genes are linked to functions associated with reading and writing. Fascinating stuff, right? However, the research is still in its infancy and is not yet widely proven. Nevertheless, being aware of family members that possess dyslexic traits, may help better understand whether your child is likely to develop the superpower.
As Spiderman’s Uncle Ben once said, “With great power comes great responsibility”, and early recognition of dyslexia is shown to help children prosper as they cultivate their ‘superpower’ in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Dyslexia, genetics, and the right support:
Whilst there is certainly a lot of evidence to suggest that dyslexia does run in the family, it is not guaranteed that someone will develop it. It is essentially like rolling genetic dice. One sibling may have dyslexia whilst another shows no signs at all.
Research suggests that if dyslexia is identified early enough and appropriate support mechanisms are put in place, a dyslexic individual will develop and prosper at the same rate as someone without it. At Dyslexia First this is exactly why we place so much importance on an early diagnosis. Understanding the differences in how your child will develop, and the level of support they require, allows you to best provide them an environment where they can comfortably develop.
Dyslexia should never be considered a hindrance on a child’s learning, rather a thought process that with the right support produces a creative and unique individual.
Conclusion: Is dyslexia genetic?
So, its conclusion time, Is dyslexia genetic? Whilst there is not an official, scientific verdict, the evidence certainly seems to point towards the case. Research continues and our understanding of the genetic factors involved in dyslexia grow rapidly.
If dyslexia is prominent within your family, and you suspect your child may be demonstrating dyslexic traits, it’s worth exploring a diagnosis as early as possible. If your child possesses the ‘dyslexic superpower’, it is so important that they receive the correct support as they develop and grow in order for them to fully achieve their ‘superhero’ status!
Let’s dispel the stigma around dyslexia and prove that with the right support your child can change the world.
About Dyslexia First
At Dyslexia First we want to help those who are living with dyslexia to enjoy life and the opportunities it brings. We are relentlessly positive about dyslexia.
If you would like to talk further about dyslexia and discuss assessment for children or adults, please get in touch.
