Dyslexia

A mother and young daughter are sitting closely together on a couch reading a children's ook.

Dyslexia is not caused by vision problems, lack of motivation, or lack of intelligence. In fact, many individuals with dyslexia are highly intelligent and creative. Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability in which a person's ability to process the sound structure of the language is impacted. A person with dyslexia may have difficulty pronouncing, remembering, and/or thinking about the individual speech sounds that make up words. This typically leads to difficulty reading single printed words accurately and quickly and reading aloud with sufficient speed to support understanding as well as difficulty with spelling, writing, and sometimes math.

Dyslexia is a common learning difference, affecting up to 1 in 5 individuals. It exists on a spectrum, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, and can vary widely from person to person. With appropriate support and effective teaching methods, most individuals with dyslexia can learn to read and write.

In October, 2025, the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) released a new definition of dyslexia. This new definition includes a broader explanation of what dyslexia is. Building on the 2002 definition, it addresses:

  • The complex interplay of environmental, brain-based, and genetic influences contributing to dyslexia.

  • The underlying difficulties with the ability to recognize and work with the sound structure of the language and the ability to process the form and structure of the language which are common but not universal, and the early oral language weaknesses that often foreshadow literacy challenges.

  • The secondary consequences include reading comprehension problems and reduced reading and writing experience that can impede growth in language, knowledge, written expression, and overall academic achievement. Psychological well-being and employment opportunities may also be affected.

  • The finding that although identification and targeted instruction are important at any age, language and literacy support before and during the early years of education is particularly effective in enhancing later reading abilities.

The links below will take you to websites with in-depth information about dyslexia: