Understanding Dyslexia: A Guide for Parents
By: Corrina Schader, LEP
Owner of Mindful LEP
Website: www.mindful-LEP.com
Email: info@mindful-LEP.com
Phone: (408) 797-5597
At Mindful LEP, one of the most common concerns we hear from parents is, "Does my child have dyslexia?" The term can feel overwhelming and confusing, especially when parents hear conflicting information about what dyslexia is and how it affects their child’s learning. Our goal is to provide you with a clear, parent-friendly guide to understanding dyslexia, how it is identified, and how we can support children who have it.
What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a neurobiological learning difference that primarily affects reading, spelling, and sometimes writing. It is not related to intelligence. Children with dyslexia are just as smart as their peers. Dyslexia results from differences in how the brain processes language, particularly phonological processing (how sounds connect to letters), orthographic processing (the way words take shape), and auditory processing (how well you understand what you hear).
Common Myths About Dyslexia
Myth 1: Children with dyslexia see letters backwards.
Fact: Dyslexia is not about seeing letters or words backwards. It’s about difficulty connecting sounds to letters and decoding words.
Myth 2: Dyslexia can be outgrown.
Fact: Dyslexia is lifelong, but with early identification and the right support, children can become strong, confident readers.
Myth 3: Dyslexia means a child isn’t smart.
Fact: Many individuals with dyslexia are highly intelligent and creative—think Albert Einstein, Steven Spielberg, and Richard Branson!
Signs of Dyslexia
The signs of dyslexia can vary by age, but some common indicators include:
Preschool/Early Elementary: Difficulty learning nursery rhymes, trouble recognizing letters, slow to learn new words.
Elementary School: Difficulty sounding out words, frequent spelling errors, avoiding reading aloud, slow and effortful reading.
Later Grades: Poor spelling, difficulty with reading comprehension, struggles with writing assignments.
How Early Can Dyslexia Be Identified?
Research shows that children can be identified as at risk for dyslexia as early as preschool or kindergarten, based on language and phonological awareness skills. A formal diagnosis is often made in early elementary school, but early intervention can begin as soon as concerns arise.
How Mindful LEP Can Help
At Mindful LEP, we conduct comprehensive assessments to evaluate a child’s reading, writing, cognitive, and language skills. The evaluation process typically includes:
Parent and Teacher Interviews: Gathering information about developmental and educational history.
Evaluation/Assessments/Testing: Assessing reading, spelling, information processing, and cognitive skills.
Observations: Understanding how your child approaches tasks.
Once the evaluation is complete, we provide a clear explanation of the results, including whether your child meets criteria for dyslexia, and create an individualized plan for support.
NOTE: Mindful LEP does not currently have a waitlist for assessments. Call us today for a FREE consultation, and book your evaluation appointment with us now!
Addressing Dyslexia: What Works?
The good news is that evidence-based interventions can make a huge difference! Effective approaches include:
Structured Literacy Programs: Explicit, systematic, and multisensory instruction in phonics and reading.
Accommodations at School: Extra time, audiobooks, access to assistive technology, oral testing options, reduced spelling demands, and access to teacher notes.
Confidence Building: Encouraging your child’s strengths and talents, so they see themselves as more than their reading difficulties.
Examples of Helpful Accommodations
Extended time on tests and assignments
Access to audiobooks or text-to-speech software
Modified spelling tests that focus on fewer words or sight words
Oral responses in place of written ones for some assignments
Use of graphic organizers to help with writing
Tips for Parents at Home
Read aloud daily—this helps build vocabulary and comprehension without putting pressure on decoding.
Use audiobooks so your child can enjoy age-appropriate stories even if reading is challenging.
Practice phonics in short, fun bursts—games and apps can make practice less stressful.
Celebrate progress, not perfection—small wins are big victories!
Navigating School Support (IEPs and 504 Plans)
Children with dyslexia may qualify for school-based support through either an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan:
IEP: Provides specialized instruction and measurable goals, typically for students who need targeted reading intervention.
504 Plan: Provides accommodations in the classroom to ensure equal access to learning but does not include specialized instruction.
Parents can request a school evaluation in writing. If your child already has a private evaluation, sharing results with the school can help determine eligibility for services and accommodations.
*Did you know that Mindful LEP can help you navigate this process? We offer advocacy services to families, and help support them through the IEP/504 Plan process. Contact us for more information!
Takeaway for Parents
If you suspect your child may have dyslexia, trust your instincts. Early identification and intervention are key to helping your child thrive. Mindful LEP can guide you through the assessment process, provide answers, and connect you to resources that work.
Remember: dyslexia does not define your child’s future. With understanding, support, and the right tools, your child can become a successful, confident learner.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to Mindful LEP for a FREE consultation. We would be happy to discuss how we can help your family with:
the academic assessment/evaluation process
therapy/counseling (in person and virtual)
art & play therapy (in person and virtual)
advocacy services (in person and virtual)
We would LOVE for you to share your ideas and thoughts on our next blog topic(s). What would you like us to focus on in the future? Let us know at: info@mindful-LEP.com
