What Exactly Is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia has been little understood or noted for most of recorded history. Almost all that we have learned about dyslexia has come in the last twenty-five years.

Dyslexics see things differently. Their eyes are exactly the same as those of non-dyslexics, but their brains interpret the signals received in different manners. For this reason they learn differently. They must be taught in the way they learn, not in the common mold.

For roughly the last 15 years, as part of a program to help in overcoming dyslexia, school-age kids have all been screened for signs of dyslexia in children. Those identified as “probables” went through a full-blown test for dyslexia. Those dyslexics thus identified were subsequently taught according to the way they needed to be taught.

Before about 15 years ago, dyslexics were lumped in with the rest of the students and had to take their chances. Most were treated badly by the educational system, called lazy, slow learners, underachievers. They were made to feel ashamed of and embarrassed by their differences and learned to conceal them.

Millions of adult dyslexics today have never taken a dyslexia test. They still struggle with learning and reading difficulties that could be easily overcome if they were only known. A half-hour dyslexia test could make enormous improvements in their self-esteem and abilities.

There are a large number of different types of dyslexia to deal with. There is no standard definition, no real, workable way to sort them out into types and put them into nice, neat categories. Each one is different and needs to be evaluated and taught accordingly.

Testing for dyslexia, especially in adults, is extremely important. Testing is the only way the numerous (in the millions) of adult dyslexics can be identified and helped. Without knowing, without the training they need, it’s probable that they can never reach their full potentials. A simple dyslexia test could set them free, dramatically improve their lives.

There is more information on the subject of dyslexia you can see by clicking on any of the links in this blog posting.

DISCLAIMER: I hope this helps, but please note that I am not a Medical Doctor. You should consult with your M.D. or personal Physician before taking any medical advice from anyone on the Internet.

By David Fullman