Do you suspect a Reading Disability?
Estimates are that 1 in 5 children experience some type of reading struggle. Dyslexia is just one type of reading disability. Regardless of the cause, early recognition of a reading disability is critical. If a reading disability is present, than the earlier the treatment, the better the odds of a positive outcome. In addition to improving a child's reading skills, early treatment can help to boost a child's self esteem. This is an essential part of any treatment program.
Brandon Reading Clinic has been working with children with special learning needs for over 20 years. We consult with parents to help them understand the nature of a reading disability and the resources and treatment programs that are available. An informed parent can become the child's best advocate.
Signs of a reading difficulty can include:
Young Children:
- Difficulty rhyming
- Difficulty with pronunciation of words
- Trouble learning the alphabet letter names and sounds
- Struggles to recall names of people and objects in general
Older Children:
- Memory deficiencies - remembering the days of the week, reciting the alphabet, etc.
- Trouble remembering spoken directions
- Requires extra time to complete academic tasks
- STRUGGLES with reading, spelling or writing. Has difficulty even with small "function" words such as the, and, is, etc.
- AVOIDS reading
- The reading struggle is usually unexpected
- Reading is "boring"
If you are a parent and even suspect that a learning problem may exist, we encourage you to research the issues involved and to seek a professional diagnosis as early as possible. Brandon Reading Clinic can provide information on recognition and treatment of reading disabilities and dyslexia as well as links to other organizations that can help. Don't delay - these problems generally do not improve on their own! While a child may show some signs of improvement as they mature, if they have an underlying problem, they will continue to underperform relative to their ability. Research proves, early treatment is essential and can provide a lifetime of benefits!
