Dyslexia is a language-based processing disorder resulting in
a learning disability often characterized by difficulties with accurate word recognition, decoding and spelling, but that also brings amazing gifts including areas of creativity, athleticism, spatial relationships, big-picture thinking and so much more.
According to the
International Dyslexia Association,
“dyslexia is characterized by difficulties with accurate and / or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.”
In America, it is estimated that nearly
1 in 5 students has dyslexia. While accounting for nearly 20 percent of the population, unfortunately LDs like dyslexia are still largely under-diagnosed or misunderstood in schools. That mindset is beginning to change though, and with the help of advocates and organizations like
Learning Ally, The Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity,
Decoding Dyslexia and many others, we are beginning to help change the face of dyslexia support in schools.
Below is a list of helpful guides developed by
Learning Ally staff for support of dyslexia in schools. Please feel free to read, share and pass along these wonderful informational flyers to any parents, teachers or administrators who might benefit!
What is Dyslexia? Potential Indicators
Accommodations How Audiobooks Can Help
Please feel free to check out
go.learningally.org/educators/ for more assistance! Also, parents, check out this list of
parent resources shared by my Learning Ally colleague and parent Jules Johnson.
Lindsey Lipsky is a former special education teacher and learning/behavior specialist who lives and works in Evanston, IL (a suburb outside of Chicago). Lindsey is passionate about working with students who have dyslexia. Lindsey has taught multiple grade levels in both self-contained and co-taught settings, using a wide variety of programs including the Wilson Reading System, SRA Reading, and Language! for students with dyslexia and other reading delays. Lindsey has a master’s degree in special education and currently works at Learning Ally helping to make reading and learning accessible for all. Check out her blog, Education Voice, for more articles from Lindsey.