When a child struggles with reading, writing, spelling, and sometimes even speaking, it is possible that the problem is due to dyslexia. The common signs listed below do not necessarily mean that a child displaying them has this learning disability. However, if a child continues to display difficulty over time in the areas listed below, testing for dyslexia should be considered.

• Understanding that words are made up of sounds
• Assigning correct sounds to letters
• Correct pronunciation of sounds and words
• Spelling
• Learning basic sequential information (alphabet, numbers)
• Reading with age-appropriate speed, accuracy and comprehension
• Learning numbers, facts
• Answering open-ended questions (math or word problems)
• Organizing thoughts, time, or a sequence of tasks

Talk to your child's school first. Read some good books about dyslexia. We have listed books and web sites that we recommend in Additional Resources on this web site. A formal evaluation by trained professionals must be conducted to diagnose dyslexia. Sometimes a child's school is able to conduct the necessary testing, and sometimes testing needs to be done by outside specialists (at a hospital or through a clinical psychologist). Organizations such as the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) can help locate a specialist in your area.

Formal testing must be conducted before contacting the Children's Learning Center. Once this evaluation is completed, the parent should locate the nearest Learning Center, then call the Center Director, who will send an application to be filled out and returned with supporting information.

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