Myths vs. fact

Myth#1: Reading and writing letters backwards are the main signs of dyslexia. 

Fact: Some kids with dyslexia write letters backwards and some don’t. So, letter reversal isn’t necessarily a sign that your child has dyslexia.              

Myth#2:Dyslexia doesn’t show up until elementary school.

Fact: Signs of dyslexia can show up in preschool, or even earlier. That’s because dyslexia can affect language skills that are essential skills for reading. Some signs that a preschooler may be at risk for dyslexia include difficulty rhyming and being a “late talker.”

Myth#3: Dyslexia is a vision problem.

Fact: Vision problems don’t cause dyslexia. Kids with dyslexia are no more likely to have eye and vision problems than other kids.

Myth#4: Kids with dyslexia just need to try harder to read.

Fact: Research shows that the brain functions differently in kids with dyslexia. It also shows that reading can actually change the brain over time. But effort has nothing to do with it. It’s the type of instruction that makes a difference, not how hard kids try. With good instruction and practice, kids with dyslexia can make lasting gains in reading.

Myth#5: Dyslexia goes away once kids learn to read.

Fact: Intervention makes a big difference in helping kids with dyslexia learn to read. But being able to read doesn’t mean they’re “cured.” Dyslexia is a lifelong learning difference that can affect more than just basic reading skills.

Myth#6: Dyslexia only happens in the English language.

Fact: Dyslexia exists all over the world and in all languages. But it often takes longer to pick up on reading issues in kids who are multilingual than in their peers. That may be due to teachers and parents thinking these kids are struggling because they’re learning a new language

Myth#7: Intelligent people cannot have dyslexia.

Fact: Dyslexia impacts individuals with a range of cognitive skills, and with average to above average intelligence. Some individuals with dyslexia have well above average abilities in problem-solving and creativity. However, these above average skills do not exist because an individual has dyslexia