For many families, school brings both excitement and challenges. One of the most common learning differences children may face is dyslexia, a condition that affects how the brain processes language. Understanding dyslexia is vital not only for educators but also for parents and caregivers who want to support their children’s growth. While dyslexia does not reflect a child’s intelligence or potential, it does change the way learning unfolds. By recognizing its different forms and impacts, families can help their children thrive academically and emotionally.What Is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a neurodevelopmental condition that primarily affects reading and language processing skills. It is not caused by poor teaching, lack of motivation or low intelligence. Instead, dyslexia is linked to differences in the way the brain processes written and spoken language (California Learning Resource Network [CLRN], 2025). These differences make decoding words, spelling and fluent reading more difficult, which in turn can affect overall learning.

Researchers have identified several types of dyslexia. Phonological or dysphonetic dyslexia, for example, involves difficulties breaking words into their component sounds, while surface or dyseidetic dyslexia involves challenges recognizing whole words by sight (Dorwart, 2022). There is also rapid naming deficit dyslexia, where children struggle to name familiar objects, colors or letters quickly. Each type brings unique challenges, which is why a “one-size-fits-all” approach to reading instruction rarely works.

How Dyslexia Affects Learning

Children with dyslexia often find learning to read and write frustrating. Because reading is such a cornerstone skill, struggles in this area can ripple into other subjects like math, science and history, which often require heavy amounts of reading (CLRN, 2025). Beyond academics, difficulties with literacy can affect self-esteem and confidence, making children hesitant to participate in class or engage with peers.

However, dyslexia does not mean a child cannot learn effectively. Instead, it means they may require different teaching strategies. Evidence-based reading interventions, structured literacy programs, and supportive classroom environments can make an enormous difference. Early detection is key: The sooner dyslexia is identified, the earlier a child can receive the help they need.

Screening for Dyslexia: The Role of DIBELS

One of the tools schools frequently use to screen for reading difficulties is the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS). DIBELS is a set of short, research-based assessments that measure foundational literacy skills such as phonemic awareness, letter naming and oral reading fluency. By administering DIBELS several times throughout the year, educators can monitor student progress and identify children who may be at risk for dyslexia.

While DIBELS does not diagnose dyslexia, it serves as a valuable early-warning system. When combined with further evaluations and professional assessments, it helps schools determine which students need targeted reading interventions. For families, knowing that their child’s progress is closely tracked can be reassuring and can lead to earlier support if challenges arise.

Dyslexia Across Languages

Interestingly, dyslexia does not look the same across all languages. A child learning to read in English, for example, may face different hurdles than a child learning to read in Spanish, Chinese or Hebrew. This is because languages differ in how letters or characters map to sounds and in the complexity of their writing systems.

Research by Rueckl et al. (2015) postulated that proficient reading activates similar brain regions across different languages, but that each language activates additional systems. For English, that area is located in the left frontal gyrus, whereas reading and writing in Chinese activate more of the back of the brain, the area closely associated with visual memory. Various forms of dyslexia can manifest depending on the first language of literacy. Children learning logographic writing systems such as Chinese may struggle with visual recognition of characters if they have dyseidetic (visual) dyslexia, whereas a student with dysphonetic dyslexia may not experience issues until they are learning to read and write in a phonics-based system like English.

This insight highlights the importance of considering cultural and linguistic context when supporting children with dyslexia. Families raising bilingual or multilingual children should be aware that their child’s learning profile might look different depending on the language environment and language of instruction.

Supporting Children With Dyslexia

For parents, the journey often begins with noticing small signs: a child taking longer to learn the alphabet in English, confusing letters or struggling to remember sight words. If concerns arise, families should seek guidance from educational psychologists or pediatricians who can recommend assessments.

Support strategies include:

• Structured literacy instruction: Explicit, systematic teaching of phonics and word recognition for alphabetic languages.
• Technology tools: Audiobooks, text-to-speech software, and speech-to-text programs can help children access content while building literacy skills.
• Positive reinforcement: Focusing on strengths, such as creativity, problem-solving or verbal reasoning, can boost confidence.
• Family advocacy: Parents play a crucial role in ensuring schools provide appropriate accommodations and interventions.

Importantly, dyslexia is not something children “outgrow.” Instead, they learn to manage it with the right strategies and support. Many individuals with dyslexia go on to excel in higher education and in careers where creative thinking and problem-solving are valued.

A Path Forward

Understanding dyslexia means recognizing it not as a barrier, but as a different pathway to learning. With tools like DIBELS and the Dyslexia Screener for Chinese, adopted in November 2024 for use on the Chinese mainland, early screening, culturally informed approaches to literacy, and family-centered support, children with dyslexia can thrive. For families, the key lies in partnership – with educators, with specialists and most importantly, with their children – walking together on the pathway of literacy.

What Parents Should Know About Dyslexia

• Dyslexia is common. It affects the way the brain processes language, not a child’s intelligence.
• Different types exist. Some children struggle with sounds (phonological dyslexia), while others struggle with recognizing whole words (surface dyslexia).
• Early screening matters. Tools like DIBELS help schools spot children who may need extra support with reading.
• It looks different across languages. Dyslexia can show up in unique ways depending on whether a child is learning English, Spanish, Chinese or another language.
• Support makes a difference. Structured literacy programs, technology tools and strong family advocacy can help children succeed.
• Confidence counts. Encouraging your child’s strengths – creativity, problem-solving, big-picture thinking – builds resilience.

With the right strategies, children with dyslexia can flourish both in school and beyond.

What Kids With Dyslexia Should Know

Dyslexia Superpowers!

Did you know that having dyslexia just means your brain works in its own special way? It doesn’t mean you’re not smart. In fact, many amazing inventors, artists, and leaders have had dyslexia!

Here are some good things to remember:

Your brain is unique. You may find reading and spelling tricky, but you might be awesome at art, sports, problem-solving or creative thinking.

Different doesn’t mean less. Lots of people with dyslexia see the “big picture” and think of ideas that others miss.

Help is out there. Teachers and parents can give you tools – like audiobooks, special reading programs or extra time on tests – that make school easier.

You are more than dyslexia. It’s just one part of you. You have talents, dreams and strengths that go way beyond reading.

Remember: Dyslexia doesn’t stop you from being amazing. It just means your journey to learning is a little different – and that’s okay!

References

California Learning Resource Network. (2025, January 11). How does dyslexia affect learning? California Learning Resource Network. https://www.clrn.org/how-does-dyslexia-affect-learning/

Dorwart, L. (2022, March 12). The types of dyslexia. Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/types-of-dyslexia-5214423

Rueckl, J. G., Paz-Alonso, P. M., Molfese, P. J., Kuo, W.-J., Bick, A., Frost, S. J., Hancock, R., Wu, D. H., Mencl, W. E., Duñabeitia, J. A., Lee, J.-R., Oliver, M., Zevin, J. D., Hoeft, F., Carreiras, M., Tzeng, O. J. L., Pugh, K. R., & Frost, R. (2015). Universal brain signature of proficient reading: Evidence from four contrasting languages. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 112(50), 15510–15515. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1509321112

Images: Freepik

If you’ve ever watched a child stumble over words or struggle to explain a story, you know how heartbreaking it can feel. For many children, this is just part of learning and growing. But for some, difficulties with language are more than a temporary phase. This is where Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) comes in. DLD is a condition that affects six to eight percent of children (McGregor, 2019).

Despite how common it is, DLD often flies under the radar. Families might not hear the term until years into their child’s school journey, and even then, confusion can linger. What exactly is DLD? How is it different from communication differences in autism or from learning a second language? And, most importantly, how can we support children with DLD so they can thrive?

What is Developmental Language Disorder?

Put simply, DLD is when a child has significant and persistent difficulty with understanding or using language, and these struggles cannot be explained by hearing loss, issues with intelligence, or another obvious cause (McGregor, 2019). It’s a hidden condition. Kids with DLD may look just like their peers, but they may find it hard to follow directions, tell stories, or learn new words.

Some signs of DLD include:

• Trouble putting words together into sentences
• Difficulty remembering or retrieving the right word
• Problems understanding what others say, especially in group settings
• Challenges learning new vocabulary or grammar rules

These difficulties don’t go away on their own, and while children with DLD can make progress with support, they often continue to face language challenges into adulthood.

Clearing Up a Common Confusion

When talking about language struggles, it’s important to distinguish between DLD and other situations. For example, students who are learning English (or another language) as a second language make grammatical mistakes, mix words, or struggle to express themselves, but that doesn’t mean they have DLD. The standard for identifying language disorders comes from studying native speakers of a language, not second-language learners.

This distinction matters because multilingualism is not a disorder. Children learning a new language will need time and expert teaching to catch up, but their brains are working as expected. DLD, on the other hand, involves core difficulties with language learning itself, regardless of how many languages a child speaks.

DLD and Autism: Overlapping Challenges

How DLD is different from communication challenges in autism?  Researchers have studied this carefully. Both children with autism and children with DLD can show delays in vocabulary and grammar, and both groups may struggle with storytelling or making sense of complex sentences. However, there are important differences.

A 2021 study compared language profiles in children with autism and those with DLD. It found that while both groups face language challenges, children with autism often have additional difficulties in social communication, like reading between the lines, understanding sarcasm, or interpreting tone of voice, while children with DLD primarily struggle with the structure of language itself (Georgiou & Spanoudis, 2021).

Think of it this way: A child with DLD may understand the intent behind a joke but not be able to tell it smoothly. A child with autism might deliver the joke fluently but miss the subtle cues that make it socially appropriate. Recognizing these differences helps parents, teachers, and therapists tailor the right kind of support.

Why DLD Matters Beyond the Classroom

It’s tempting to think of language difficulties as just an “academic” issue. But the truth is, DLD can shape every part of a person’s life.

A 2024 study spoke directly with adults who grew up with DLD, as well as speech-language therapists who work with them. The findings were eye-opening: Many adults described feelings of isolation, frustration, and even shame linked to their struggles with communication. They often faced challenges in friendships, romantic relationships, and the workplace – not just in school (Wilmot et al., 2024).

Some reported mental health struggles, including anxiety and depression, stemming from years of feeling misunderstood or left out of conversations. Therapists in the study emphasized that awareness and early intervention could make a huge difference not only in language outcomes but also in self-confidence and overall well-being.

This highlights a vital truth: DLD is not just about words. It’s about connection, belonging, and opportunity.

Supporting Children With DLD

The good news is that with the right support, children with DLD can flourish. Here are a few steps parents and caregivers can take:

1. Seek assessment early. If you notice persistent language struggles, ask your paediatrician or school’s learning support department for a referral to an educational psychologist or speech-language pathologist.
2. Use clear, simple language. Short sentences and visual cues can help children process information more easily.
3. Encourage storytelling. Reading together and asking your child to retell stories in their own words builds language skills.
4. Advocate at school. Make sure teachers understand DLD and can provide accommodations, like extra time for assignments or oral presentations. An IEP (Individual Education Plan) or LSP (Learning Support Plan) may be drafted to ensure that home and school are in agreement on how to best provide support.
5. Focus on strengths. Children with DLD often shine in areas like art, sports, or problem-solving. Celebrate these talents to boost confidence.

Building a World of Understanding

One of the hardest parts of DLD is that it’s invisible. A child might be labeled “shy,” “lazy,” or “not paying attention” when in reality, they’re working twice as hard just to keep up. By raising awareness, we can shift the narrative from one of misunderstanding to one of empathy and support.

Every child deserves to be heard. Sometimes, this means listening with more than our ears and learning from words left unsaid.

Images: Freepik

Works Cited
Georgiou, N., & Spanoudis, G. (2021). Developmental Language Disorder and Autism: Commonalities and Differences on Language. Brain Sciences, 11(5), 589. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci11050589

McGregor, K.K. (2019, September 17). DLDandMe. DLDandMe. https://www.dldandme.org/all-articles/diagnosing-and-treating-developmental-language-disorder-dld

Wilmot, A., Boyes, M., Sievers, R., Leitão, S., & Norbury, C. (2024). Impact of developmental language disorders on mental health and well-being across the lifespan: a qualitative study including the perspectives of UK adults with DLD and Australian speech-language therapists. BMJ Open, 14(10), e087532. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2024-087532