Identification Guide
Signs of Dyslexia
From childhood to the teenage years a practical guide to help parents, teachers, and caregivers recognize the early signs of dyslexia.
Dyslexia affects people differently at every stage of development. Recognizing the signs early gives children the best chance of getting the support they need. Use the tabs below to explore signs by age group.
3
Preschool Signs
Ages 3–5
- Delayed speech development or frequent mispronunciation of words
- Difficulty recognizing or producing rhyming words and songs
- Problems learning new vocabulary or following multi-step directions
- Trouble learning and remembering letter names or the alphabet
- Struggling to identify the sounds that individual letters make
- Family history of reading or learning difficulties dyslexia often runs in families
Quick-Reference Summary
Ages 3–5
Preschool
- Delayed speech development or frequent mispronunciation of words
- Difficulty recognizing or producing rhyming words and songs
- Problems learning new vocabulary or following multi-step directions
- Trouble learning and remembering letter names or the alphabet
- + 2 more signs above
Ages 6–8
Early School-Age
- Reading much slower than classmates or peers
- Difficulty sounding out words using phonics or understanding what was read
- Avoiding reading activities, books, or reading aloud
- Frequent confusion between similar-looking letters such as b and d, or p and q
- + 2 more signs above
Ages 13–18
Teenagers
- Slow or labored reading of textbooks, novels, or exam questions compared to peers
- Persistent spelling mistakes, poor grammar, and difficulty expressing ideas in writing
- Avoidance of reading-heavy subjects or reluctance to read aloud in class
- Trouble learning foreign languages due to challenges with phonics and vocabulary
- + 4 more signs above
Recognizing Multiple Signs?
If you notice several of these signs in a child or teenager, it may be time to seek a professional evaluation. Early identification and support can make a significant difference in a child's confidence and academic success.
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