Dyslexia affects 1 in 10 individuals, many are undiagnosed (or diagnosed later in life). We are determined to spread awareness of the learning ability so that more individuals get the help they need as soon, and as young, as possible so that provisions can be put in place to give a brighter future.
Dyslexia is a lifelong learning disability and it impacts how your child begins to learn and will further have an impact on their further education and working life. In fact, those with dyslexia face higher rates of anxiety and depression because of how it can impact day to day life.
A 2020 report by the British Dyslexia Association stated that ‘88% of parents say their child has poor self-esteem because of their dyslexia.’
School pressure
As children start school, there is ‘competition’ to be like everyone else.
They want to blend in.
Answer questions confidently.
To write down an answer before others.
To be able to read in front of the class.
But what if they simply can’t remember the facts, the letters or the maths equations?
Pressure is everywhere and this can impact a child’s self-esteem and confidence. Everyday tasks are difficult for children with dyslexia, emphasising the importance of a dyslexia assessment as soon as you spot the symptoms.
Know the symptoms
Early on, the symptoms can be a delay in speaking or getting letters mixed around, for example ‘dig’ and ‘big’. See our blog What is Dyslexia? – Dyslexia First (dyslexia-first.co.uk) where we share the most common indicators of dyslexia.
Through school, children can struggle with literacy and numeracy, and later on with learning languages and facts and figures.
Naturally, dyslexics are seen to be drawn to hobbies and sports. Many celebrities have shared that they discovered their passion whilst at school because it was an escape from being different.
Positive Steps to Wellbeing
Dyslexia can impact mental health in a variety of ways, starting at school and on to emotional wellbeing later in life. Children want to fit in, be like their friends.
The first step towards positive wellbeing would be to arrange a full diagnostic assessment that will make sure your child receives the correct special support to reach their full potential.
A dyslexia assessment will help your child to be in control of their life through specialist support and guidance.
What happens in an assessment?
The key areas observed and tested are reading, writing, spelling, verbal ability, non-verbal ability, working memory, phonological memory, phonological awareness, processing speed and rapid naming.
All dyslexic diagnostic assessments are validated and approved by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) and the SpLD Assessment Standards Committee (SASC). The assessment reports are recognised nationally, and clearly state the diagnosis and recommendations for moving forwards in school or in the workplace.
A comprehensive report may include the following:
- A review of your child’s background
- An analysis of cognitive abilities, literacy skills and ability
- An analysis of their strengths and weaknesses
- A recommendation, tailored to the individual’s needs. For example, IT, class support or individual support.
And as they get older, additional time and access arrangements may be provided for exams, and special provisions put in place.
University students will be able to use the report to apply for the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) which could provide new equipment and technology that’ll help the individual reach their full potential as a student.
About Dyslexia First
Dyslexia First provides first-class dyslexia assessments for children and adults across the North West.
Owner Michala Morton has worked in the field of Special Needs for over 20 years, across a wide range of educational settings, and works closely with The British Dyslexia Association and The Dyslexia Association assessing children and adults.
Based in Newton-le-Willows, Merseyside, Dyslexia First is conveniently accessible by train, linking to Central Liverpool, Manchester and cities within an hour’s commute.
By helping you to get the right support, a world of possibilities will open, that might not have seemed accessible before.
Contact us to discuss your assessment needs at michala@dyslexia-first.co.uk or call 07711 904 589.
