Why Early Identification of Dyslexia is Important

In today’s blog post, we will look at why early identification of dyslexia is important. But first, let’s start with ensuring we understand dyslexia and its impact.

Understanding Dyslexia and Its Impact

Dyslexia is the most common learning disability in the world, affecting the reading, writing, and spelling of roughly 20% of the population. Despite the common myths surrounding dyslexia, it is not a reflection of intelligence but rather a neurological condition that makes it challenging for individuals to process language. Without early and proper support, dyslexia can significantly impact a child’s academic performance, self-esteem, and emotional well-being that has long-lasting effects.

When children experience challenges with reading and writing, many begin to feel frustrated, discouraged, and begin to believe that they are not as capable as their peers. That they aren’t good enough.

This can lead to anxiety, low self-confidence, and avoidance of any unpleasant reading & spelling-based tasks. As I’ve written about before, the identification of dyslexia is crucial in ensuring children receive timely interventions that help them thrive academically and emotionally.

In today’s blog post, we will look at the importance of early identification of dyslexia and why it is best practice to screen your child early for dyslexia.

1. Early Identification Leads to Timely Intervention

Detecting dyslexia early allows for research-backed interventions to be implemented before a student’s learning gap grows. The sooner we can give children with dyslexia an effective intervention using research-backed strategies, the better equipped they are to develop skills that help them overcome challenges related to reading and their self-confidence.

2. Reduces the Risk of Falling Behind Academically

Children who go through years of schooling with undiagnosed dyslexia are likely to unnecessarily struggle in school without a clear reason for why. It is disturbing how few teacher preparation programs equip soon-to-be teachers with the knowledge of what dyslexia is and how to support students with dyslexia.

Early identification ensures children receive the help they need as early as possible, preventing learning gaps and fostering confidence in their academic abilities.

3. Improves Self-Esteem and Emotional Well-Being

When dyslexia goes undiagnosed, children often feel inadequate compared to their peers. Additionally, children do not have an understanding for why the process of learning to read and spell is so much more challenging for them than their friends.

They may believe they are “not smart enough,” leading to social and emotional problems related to dyslexia. Understanding their learning difference gives children a sense of validation, self-knowledge, and helps them embrace the way their brain learns.

4. Builds a Strong Foundation for Effective Strategies

Once dyslexia is identified, children can access evidence-based interventions such as the Orton-Gillingham approach. While it can become expensive, Orton-Gillingham is the gold standard for teaching students with dyslexia how to read. It is a multi-sensory, direct, and structured way to teach reading, writing, and spelling, and it has proven to be highly effective in teaching children with dyslexia.

5. Helps Parents and Teachers Provide Targeted Support

An early diagnosis not only empowers children, but it also empowers their parents and teachers to implement appropriate strategies tailored to a child’s specific learning needs. With the right supports in place, children with dyslexia can absolutely learn how to read. They just need proven, effective interventions, which can only be implemented once they have been screened and assessed for dyslexia.

Conclusion: Why Early Identification of Dyslexia is Important

The early identification of dyslexia is crucial for setting children up for success. It allows for timely interventions, prevents unnecessary academic setbacks, boosts a student’s motivation and growth mindset , and provides access to effective learning interventions.

If you have even the slightest of concerns that your child may have dyslexia, seeking an initial dyslexia screening can make all the difference in the world.

Strive Learning Solutions aims to make educational assessments affordable and accessible. That is why we offer free dyslexia screenings when you book 10 or more sessions.

Children with dyslexia can thrive academically and in life; they just need the right support.

Inquire today or book your free consultation to learn how we can get your student the support they need.