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Throughout my time working in education, I've been asked many of the same questions by parents, carers and young people. Whether it's understanding dyslexia, recognising some of the common signs, or learning how best to support someone with dyslexia, there can be a lot of information to take in.
This is where I'll be sharing answers to those common questions, alongside articles exploring topics related to dyslexia, literacy and learning. My aim is to explain things clearly, without unnecessary jargon, so that you feel more confident and informed.
I hope you find these articles useful, whether you're just beginning to explore dyslexia or simply looking to learn more.
Why are some young people not diagnosed with dyslexia until they become an adult?
When people think of dyslexia, they often imagine a child struggling to learn to read in primary school.
However, that isn't always the case.
Over the past year, I've taught a number of sixth form students who appeared to be experiencing persistent literacy difficulties. Following discussions with their parents, five chose to undergo a diagnostic assessment for dyslexia.
All five received a diagnosis.
That made me ask myself...
How can dyslexia go unnoticed until the age of 16 or 17?
There isn't one simple answer. Some young people develop strategies that help them cope for years. Others are academically able, meaning their difficulties are masked until the demands of GCSEs and A Levels increase. For some, the signs simply aren't recognised for what they are.
Many of the students I assess are bright, hardworking young people who have developed effective coping strategies. By the time they reach sixth form, the increasing demands of A Levels often make those hidden difficulties much more noticeable. Several of those who went on to qualify for appropriate exam access arrangements later commented that these adjustments helped level the playing field, allowing their exam results to better reflect their knowledge and understanding.
According to the Dyslexia Association, the signs of dyslexia often change as children grow older. While younger children may struggle to learn letter sounds or read fluently, older students are more likely to experience difficulties with reading speed, spelling, organising their ideas in writing and completing work within time limits.
Recognising these signs early can make a real difference. If your child has been working much harder than their peers but still finds literacy unusually challenging, it may be worth exploring whether dyslexia could be an underlying factor.
Here are some of the lesser-known signs of dyslexia that parents and teachers may not immediately recognise:
Finding it difficult to remember sequences, such as the alphabet, days of the week or months of the year.
Frequently confusing left and right, even in familiar situations.
Struggling to copy accurately from a whiteboard or screen, often losing their place or taking much longer than their peers.
Mixing up letters or numbers, for example confusing b and d, or E and 3, particularly when writing.
Finding it difficult to stay organised, such as keeping track of books, homework, deadlines or personal belongings.
Experiencing greater difficulty when learning a foreign language, particularly with vocabulary, pronunciation or spelling.
Becoming confused by spoken information, including instructions, dates, times or directions.
Finding it difficult to pronounce or remember longer, more complex words, sometimes becoming tongue-tied or substituting a similar word instead.