Signs for Children 5+
The following are signs that a child may have dyslexia. It is important to remember that a child may have some of these symptoms in varying combinations, but will rarely have all of them.
- Speech problems e.g. lisp, mispronunciation of words, words in wrong order. Dyslexics are often late talkers NOTE: some dyslexics learn to speak early and are very articulate.
- Difficulty in rhyming e.g. ‘book’ and ‘look’.
- Difficulty in hearing and pronouncing sounds.
- Attention problems – child does not appear to hear when given explanations. Daydreaming and switching off in class and at home.
- Lack of progress in reading, writing and spelling, contrary to expectations built up by normal development in other area.
- Poor fine motor control e.g. holding a pencil.
- Difficulties in forming letters and writing them down in a reasonable order or mirror writing.
- Confusion with b, d, p, q, u, y, m, n, s, or z.
- Clumsiness
- Difficulty carrying out a sequence of directions.
- Difficulty understanding the concept of time. They may forget their date of birth, their home address etc.
- Difficulty in counting, playing sequencing and matching games
- Problems fastening buttons, zips, tying shoes laces, and with the order in which to get dressed.
- Tantrums and signs of frustration at home and at school.
IMPORTANT: If any literacy problems have already occurred in the family then special attention should be given to the signs given above.