When a child is diagnosed with dyslexia, it is imperative that she gets proper treatment. Dyslexia is a learning disorder in which the child has trouble reading. A child with the disorder can have issues with spelling, phonological processing and following several commands at a time.
Vision and intelligence are not affected with dyslexia. When it is left untreated, the difficulty reading can persist into adulthood, leading to several long-term complications, including trouble learning, social problems and economic consequences.
To diagnose dyslexia, a doctor will use several tests and questionnaires. For example, the doctor will ask about a family history of dyslexia, as it tends to run in families.
The child may take an examination that gauges her reading skills and language abilities. The doctor may run other tests, such as psychological tests, vision tests, neurological tests and hearing tests, to rule out other conditions that may affect the child’s reading.
No cure exists for dyslexia. The MayoClinic.com noted that medications are typically not used to treat dyslexia. A child with dyslexia may be prescribed medication if she has another condition with dyslexia, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Educational interventions are used to help children with dyslexia. This may involve using several senses to help the child read. For example, the therapist may teach the child to use her finger to trace the shapes of letters used.
The reading therapist working with the child can help her identify phonemes, understand how letters make these sounds, and comprehend the material she is reading. This individualized reading instruction can also help the child to read aloud and build up her vocabulary.
The MayoClinic.com stated that in cases of severe dyslexia, the child may require more reading tutoring and may still have reading difficulties. If the child’s dyslexia interferes in her academic performance, she may meet criteria for an individualized education plan under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
Parents can also help their child by being supportive and encouraging her strengths. Explaining that dyslexia is not a failure on the part of the child can help her better cope. At home, parents can provide an organized study area for the child. The MayoClinic.com also suggested that parents stay in contact with the child’s teachers and join a support group.
References
MayoClinic.com. Dyslexia. Web. 31 October 2011
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dyslexia/DS00224/METHOD=print
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Dyslexia Information Page. Web. 31 October 2011
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/dyslexia/dyslexia.htm
Reviewed October 31, 2011
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith