Dyslexia Help
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We understand dyslexia both personally and professionally.
Dyslexia is real, it is common, and with the right instruction and support, children and adults with dyslexia can thrive.
Our goal is not just to help students “get by.”
We want them to understand what they are learning, apply it in everyday situations, and become confident, independent readers and writers.
What is Dylsexia?
Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. It affects the way the brain processes written and spoken language, especially reading and spelling.
Students with dyslexia may have trouble pronouncing words, discriminating sounds, decoding (sounding out words), spelling, or writing.
Dyslexia affects people throughout their lives, but the impact may look different at different ages.
Dyslexia is not a sign of low intelligence or lack of effort. With proper teaching methods, people with dyslexia can succeed.
Definition (IDA/NICHD, 2002)
“Dyslexia is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities…Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.”
Definition (IDA/NICHD, 2025)
“Dyslexia is a specific learning disability characterized by difficulties in word reading— affecting accuracy, speed, or both— and/or spelling, that can vary depending upon the written language system. These difficulties reflect performance at the low end of a continuum of literacy skills and occur despite evidence-aligned instruction that is effective for the individual’s peers. The cause and development of dyslexia involve, the interplay of multiple biological and environmental influences. Phonological and/or morphological difficulties are common, but not always present. Among the secondary consequences are limitations in language development and academic progress, as well as challenges to psychological well-being and vocational opportunities. Although identification and targeted instruction are important at any age, language, and literacy support before and during the early years of education can be particularly effective.”
What Causes Dyslexia?
The exact causes are not fully understood, but research shows:
Dyslexia is neurobiological and genetic. It often runs in families.
Brain imaging shows differences in how people with dyslexia process language.
The main challenge is often with phonological processing — identifying speech sounds and connecting them to letters.
Dyslexia is not caused by poor teaching, lack of intelligence, or lack of motivation.
How Common is Dyslexia?
15–20% of the population has a language-based learning disability.
Of those, 70–80% struggle with reading.
Dyslexia is the most common cause of reading, writing, and spelling difficulties.
It affects males and females equally and occurs across all backgrounds.
Signs & Symptoms of Dyslexia
Every individual with dyslexia is unique, but common signs include:
- Difficulty with rhyming
- Trouble retrieving words
- Reading slowly or with great effort
- Handwriting challenges (dysgraphia)
- Struggles with spelling and reading comprehension
- Forgetting directions
- Restlessness or distractibility
- Trouble with time, dates, and organization
- Frustration with schoolwork
If you “see your child” in these examples, schedule a comprehensive Skill Assessment. Our evaluation looks at nine key areas:
- Alphabetic Knowledge
- Handwriting
- Sight Words
- Phonics
- Phonological & Phonemic Awareness
- Reading Level & Comprehension
- Fluency
- Spelling
Why Early Intervention Matters
Research shows:
- Children who receive phonological awareness and phonics training in Kindergarten or 1st grade have far fewer reading problems than those who don’t get help until later.
- 74% of poor readers in 3rd grade remain poor readers in 9th grade without intervention.
- Structured Literacy, taught with the right intensity, can change outcomes — even for older students and adults.
It is never too late to learn to read and write more effectively.
Other Learning Differences
- Dyslexia is one type of learning disability. Others include:
- Dyscalculia – difficulty with math concepts and problem solving
- Dysgraphia – difficulty with handwriting and/or spelling
- ADHD/ADD – not learning disabilities themselves, but often occur alongside dyslexia
Studies show up to 50% of students with dyslexia also have ADHD.
The Effects of Dyslexia
Dyslexia impacts more than academics. It can affect:
- Spoken language – expressing thoughts clearly or understanding others
- School and work performance – trouble keeping up with reading and writing demands
- Self-image – many students feel less capable than they really are
Without support, children may become discouraged. With the right instruction and encouragement, they can gain confidence, resilience, and pride in their abilities.
Can Individuals with Dyslexia Learn to Read?
Yes! With Structured Literacy and individualized support, people with dyslexia can:
- Improve reading fluency and comprehension
- Build spelling and writing skills
- Succeed in school, work, and beyond
At ETC, we use the Orton-Gillingham Approach, proven to help individuals with dyslexia reach their full potential.
If you see your child in these signs, don’t wait.
Schedule a Skills Assessment with ETC today and take the first step toward unlocking their potential.