What is Dyslexia

The word ‘dyslexia’ comes from the Greek meaning ‘difficulty with words’ and is a difference in the way the brain processes language.

Dyslexia varies in different people, but can mean difficulties with:

• Reading
• Spelling
• Writing
• Organisational skills
• Short-term memory

Dyslexia tends to run in families and is NOT related to intelligence or to a person’s background.

However, along with the difficulties, real strengths can be identified, including:

• Problem solving skills
• Enhanced creativity
• Strong visual thinking
• Intuitive
• Verbally articulate
• Spatially talented

People with dyslexia do not all have the same way of thinking, but there are common patterns.

Dyslexia is sometimes diagnosed in children soon after they start school.  But quite often it is not recognised until much later in life.

There is no cure for dyslexia but with the right kind of support, dyslexics can overcome their difficulties and achieve great things.

Dyslexia is one of several specific learning difficulties which come under the umbrella term ‘Specific Learning Difficulties’ (often referred to as SpLD). It means that the difficulties are specific rather than more general learning difficulties.

It is estimated that at least 10 – 20% of the population are affected by dyslexia; with 4% being severely affected by dyslexia.

Other Specific Learning Difficulties

It is common for people with dyslexia to have other specific learning difficulties which also impact on the way information is learned and processed.  These are known as co-occurring difficulties and include:

• Dyspraxia
• Dyscalculia
• Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Autism
• Asperger’s Syndrome
• Emotional Behavioural Disorder (EBD)
• Visual Stress

Dyslexia Cornwall can offer specialist advice and support on a wide range of Specific Difficulties.

For further information please contact our Helpline on 01872 27 48 27 or enquiries@dyslexiacornwall.org.uk