Sometimes, parents do not want to test their struggling reader for dyslexia because they are concerned about what a possible diagnosis might mean in terms of how their child views themself & how others will view their child.
This concern often comes from misunderstandings about what dyslexia is. Truly understanding what dyslexia is helps address this concern.
Just like anything that deals with your body, it’s good to know what is going on. Here are some benefits of identifying dyslexia:
– children understand why reading seems to be challenging for them. This can boost their self-perception because it gives them a frame of reference and understanding.
While it is best practice to directly teach all children how language works, by identifying dyslexia, it ensures that those children are given this instruction & given the tools that can help them be successful in school.
For example, those with dyslexia often read more slowly. By formally identifying dyslexia, schools are legally required to provide dyslexic students with accommodations such as more time on tests.