Alexander Center > Common Conditions > Developmental dyslexia

Common conditions

This section includes conditions that can be evaluated and treated by Alexander Center professionals.

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Developmental dyslexia

Developmental dyslexia is a language-based learning disability that causes difficulty connecting written words with the way the words sound and are spoken. Because of this, people with dyslexia have difficulty sounding out and spelling words.

When people who have dyslexia hear a word, they cannot break down the sounds of the individual letters. When they see that same word in writing, they are unable to process that each individual written letter is also an individual sound.

Children who have dyslexia develop language skills at a slower pace. As a result, they have difficulty with written language and learning to read. Dyslexia does not mean a child is less intelligent or less capable; however, it does mean that a person learns in a different and distinct way.

Current statistics on dyslexia show that one out of five children has trouble reading and spelling, as well as difficulty with vocabulary and speaking in a conversation.

Symptoms

• Difficulty learning and remembering written words
• Leaving out or putting in words when reading and writing
• Difficulty expressing ideas in writing
• Trouble with long word problems despite being good at math

Tests, treatment

If you think your child might have dyslexia, it is important to discuss it with your child’s teacher. Together, look over your child’s grades and performance. Also, your child should see a doctor to rule out vision or hearing problems.

If your child is diagnosed as having dyslexia, information geared toward helping them learn will be provided by our professional staff.

See also learning disorders