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Understanding Dyslexia

Dyslexia is the most common learning difference in the world and one of the most misunderstood. Here's what you need to know.

The Facts

What Is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a learning difference that is inherited and affects a significant portion of the global population. Estimates for the worldwide prevalence of dyslexia symptoms range from approximately 20% of the population. Alarmingly, around 80% of the population are undiagnosed. This means that with a global population of around 8.39 billion, an estimated 1.68 billion people worldwide are dyslexic or have some degree of symptoms, though the number of formally diagnosed cases is lower.

1 in 5

people have dyslexia it's the most common learning difference

80%

of people with dyslexia are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed

Hereditary

dyslexia runs in families 50% chance if one parent has it, nearly 100% if both do

Not IQ

dyslexia has nothing to do with intelligence or effort

Key Information

20%

Percentage

The most commonly cited estimate from organizations like the International Dyslexia Association is that up to 20% of the population may have some degree of dyslexia symptoms.

Universal

Global Impact

The condition impacts individuals across all languages, cultures, intellectual levels, and backgrounds, indicating its universal nature.

50–100%

Heritability

Dyslexia has a strong genetic link. If one parent has dyslexia, there is approximately a 50% chance a child will also be affected, and if both parents have it, the probability increases to nearly 100%.

Majority

Undiagnosed Cases

A large number of individuals with dyslexia, particularly adults, remain undiagnosed, which contributes to the challenge of getting definitive global statistics.

Brilliant Minds

Not Related to Intelligence

Dyslexia occurs at all levels of intelligence, and many individuals with the condition are incredibly brilliant and creative thinkers.

Impact

Why This Matters

Early identification and targeted instruction dramatically improve reading, spelling, and math outcomes.
Equipping teachers with effective assessment and instruction methods expands access to quality education for all children and adults.
Ensuring that supports are freely available aligns with our mission that education should be a universal right.

Our Work

What We Do

Training for educators on evidence-based reading, writing, spelling, and math instruction, using our 47-year-tested program.
The program is seven days long, followed by tutoring support, ensuring practical, durable results without years of training.
Free resources and workshops for teachers and schools.
Community outreach to increase awareness of dyslexia and learning differences.
Partnerships with other nonprofits, schools, and policymakers to advocate for inclusive education.

How We Help

Our Training Program

A 7-day intensive that changes everything.

Our program has been developed and refined over 47 years. It trains educators to assess and teach students with dyslexia using proven, structured literacy methods. The training is seven days long, followed by ongoing tutoring support. It is not years of coursework it is focused, practical, and immediately applicable in the classroom.

Assessment Training

Educators learn to identify dyslexia through structured assessment tools and observation techniques.

Structured Literacy Methods

Teachers are trained in evidence-based, multisensory reading instruction that works for dyslexic learners.

Spelling & Math Strategies

The program covers reading, writing, spelling, and math a complete toolkit for educators.

Ongoing Tutoring Support

After the 7-day training, educators receive continued support to apply what they've learned.

How You Can Help

Donate

Support our free educator trainings and resources. Your financial contributions allow us to continue offering free teaching programs and support services to individuals with dyslexia.

Volunteer

Join our team of passionate volunteers and contribute your skills and expertise towards advancing our mission. Whether you have experience in education, fundraising, or marketing, your help is valuable.

Partner

Collaborate with schools and districts to scale impact. Partnerships with other nonprofits, schools, and policymakers help advocate for inclusive education.

Advocate

Help raise awareness about dyslexia and the right to quality education for all. Share our message with your friends, family, and colleagues.

Awareness

Signs & Symptoms of Dyslexia

Dyslexia manifests differently in each person. Here are common signs across reading, math, and daily life.

Reading Challenges

Omissions of letters in words or not 'seeing' a word
Transpositions (switching) of letter order
Repetitions of words or sentences
Reading worse under pressure
Not remembering what you read
Reversals of letters, words, or word order
Stumbling over words, sounding out a word and then not recognizing it in another sentence
Confusion over the author's meaning or purpose

Math Challenges (Dyscalculia)

Adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing incorrectly with seemingly small errors
Transposing and reversing numbers
Losing the process mid-calculation
Not reading directions and incorrectly working the entire page
Can work a sample problem but can't apply the process to a slightly different problem

Strengths & Talents

Excellent in art, music, drama, sports, carpentry, mechanics, computers, and designing
Creative and bright — able to think in 3D and pictures
Strong sense of justice and empathy
Keenly sensitive to others' thoughts and feelings
Excel in hands-on projects and activities
Ability to see multidimensionally

Our Story

About Us

Welcome to World Dyslexia Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with dyslexia. Our foundation was founded by individuals who have firsthand experience with dyslexia and understand the challenges and struggles associated with it. We believe that everyone, regardless of their learning differences, deserves an equal opportunity to succeed.

What sets World Dyslexia Foundation apart is that our founders themselves have dyslexia. They have personally experienced the trials and tribulations that come with this learning difference, and this has fueled their passion to make a difference in the lives of others facing similar challenges. Their personal insights and experiences have shaped our organization's mission and approach, ensuring that we provide the most effective support and resources to those with dyslexia.

Why Support World Dyslexia Foundation?

Personal Connection

By supporting the World Dyslexia Foundation, you are joining a community of individuals who understand dyslexia on a deep and personal level. Our founders' experiences allow us to empathize with the struggles faced by individuals with dyslexia, making our programs and services more effective and relevant.

Free Teaching for Teachers

We are proud to be the first nonprofit organization offering free teaching programs to educators. Our goal is to empower teachers with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively assess and teach children and adults with dyslexia.

Empowering Children and Adults

Our focus extends beyond educators. We offer free teaching programs for children and adults with dyslexia, helping them develop crucial literacy skills, build confidence, and overcome the challenges they face.

Our Commitment

We prioritize accessibility, inclusivity, and evidence-based practices.
We strive to identify and support undiagnosed learners who could benefit from early interventions.
We celebrate diverse strengths and recognize that dyslexia does not define potential.

Our Purpose

Why It Matters

For decades, this program was only available as a for-profit service. World Dyslexia Foundation changed that. We believe every child deserves access to the tools that help them learn regardless of their family's income. By training teachers, we multiply our impact: one trained educator can help dozens of students every year.

"Education is a right, not a privilege."

Donate to Support Our Mission

Reach Us

Get in Touch

Phone

(702)900-8005

Hours

Mon–Fri: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Sat–Sun: Closed

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