Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia
    Dyslexia 101

    Early Signs of Dyslexia

    Learn to recognize the signs of dyslexia at different ages so you can get your child the support they need.

    Back to Dyslexia 101Dyslexic Strengths

    Important: Many of these signs can occur in children without dyslexia. What matters is the pattern and persistence of difficulties over time. If you're concerned, a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified professional is the best way to know for sure.

    Preschool (Ages 3-5)

    Delayed speech development or difficulty pronouncing words
    Trouble learning the alphabet, numbers, or days of the week
    Difficulty with rhyming games or nursery rhymes
    Struggles to recognize letters in their own name
    Mixes up words that sound similar
    Family history of reading difficulties

    Early Elementary (Grades K-2)

    Difficulty learning letter-sound connections
    Slow, labored reading compared to peers
    Trouble sounding out new words
    Avoids reading or says 'I hate reading'
    Difficulty remembering sight words
    Reverses letters (b/d) beyond what's typical for age
    Strong listening comprehension but weak reading comprehension

    Upper Elementary (Grades 3-5)

    Reading accuracy improves but remains slow
    Difficulty with spelling and written expression
    Struggles to read aloud
    Avoids tasks that require reading
    Takes a long time to complete homework involving reading
    Gap between verbal abilities and reading/writing performance
    Low self-esteem related to academics

    Middle School & Beyond

    Continued slow, effortful reading
    Difficulty with foreign languages
    Trouble with timed tests
    Avoids reading for pleasure
    Spelling difficulties persist
    Excellent ideas but struggles to express them in writing
    May have developed strong coping strategies that mask difficulties

    If You Recognize These Signs

    Don't wait. Early identification and intervention are crucial for dyslexic learners. The sooner a child receives appropriate support, the better their outcomes.

    Next Steps:

    1. Talk to your child's teacher about your concerns
    2. Request a screening or evaluation through your school
    3. Consider a comprehensive private evaluation for detailed insights
    4. Connect with dyslexia resources and support groups
    5. Learn about evidence-based instruction methods
    Learn About Our Diagnostic Services
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    Trust What You See

    Early attention changes the outcome

    Parents usually notice something before anyone else does. A bright child who dreads reading aloud, guesses at familiar words, or takes an hour to finish ten minutes of homework.

    The earlier a student receives structured literacy instruction, the less ground there is to make up later. Waiting rarely helps.