How is Dyslexia in Children Detected?

Dyslexia is a type of neurological disorder in which the brain seems to be unable to properly interpret the signals it processes from the eyes and sometimes earswhich results in differences in what is being perceived. Dyslexia usually shows itself as problems with reading, spelling and converting common words into sounds. The condition is quite widespread with perhaps 10-15% of the population having some form of dyslexia.

In recent times we have learned a great deal about dyslexia, especially in the last 15 years or so. Dyslexia in children is now routinely screened for and detected in elementary school and before. We now know that children with dyslexia learn differently and need special coaching to get around the difficulties they might otherwise experience.

Those of us who finished grade school more than 15 years ago had a rougher go of it. Most dyslexics got branded as “slow learners” or “underachievers” and were stygmatized by this type of label. They felt shame and embarrassment and developed elaborate defense mechanisms to hide the fact that they were different.

It is estimated that up to 95% of adult dyslexics remain unaware of their condition. A simple fast dyslexia test could identify their condition and change their lives for the better almost immediately.

Dyslexia symptoms in adults include problems with reading, a reluctance to read anything aloud, difficulties in transcribing messages received by phone and being employed in positions below what their intelligence and experience would seem to warrant, these, among a longish list of other related symptoms.

Most of what has been learned about dyslexia comes from clinical studies, focussing on the problems of dyslexia. However, there is a positive side to dyslexia too. Dyslexic people seem to learn to think in different ways from non-dyslexics. They learn to visualize the whole picture rather than the details of the parts. Many excel in fields where this is important, fields such as architecture, graphic arts, acting and business.

This phenomenon is so common and the trend is so pronounced that such people are said to be “blessed with dyslexia”! There are many, many famous people with dyslexia. Famous dyslexics include Whoopi Goldberg, actress and comedienne, Cher, singer and actress, and her daughter, Chastity Bono, Jackie Stewart, racing driver and entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson.

The key point for adult dyslexics is to find out whether or not they are dyslexic. If you have any of the possible symptoms you should get tested as soon as possible. The sooner you know that dyslexia is a problem to you the sooner these problems can be overcome.

Disclaimer: The information given here is taken from public information printed and distributed in medical and educational journals and articles in newspapers. This is not and there is nothing here that is intended to be, pretends to be or should be taken as any type of medical advice. The reader is referred to his or her physician or other qualified medical specialist for any medical opinion or advice needed or sought after.

By – Steven Hinson