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Self-Tests for Parents to Do at Home to Test for Dyslexia

When it is comes to testing for dyslexia, there is not one true test that can be done.  Because of this problem, many children have dyslexia, yet go untreated for it, while other children may have another learning disability and are wrongly diagnosed with dyslexia.  As a parent, you are your child’s advocate.  Therefore, there are many signs and symptoms you can look when it comes to testing for dyslexia.

Children with dyslexia are not dumb or unintelligent.  However, due to their learning disability they may struggle with reading, schoolwork, and even paying attention.  They may also have low self-esteem or feel dumb, especially if they are comparing themselves with other children.  Your child may even have a high IQ, but standardized tests show differently.  If homework time is a constant struggle each night, this could be your first clue that your child has dyslexia. 

How Do They Do Reading Aloud?

Ask them to read out loud to you from simple storybooks (do not pick from stories that they could have easily memorized from hearing too many times).  If your child struggles with this task or even mixes up the words, it is another sign of dyslexia.  Some children will become emotional while reading.  Other children will complain of headaches or stomachaches when asked to read a book.

What Are A Child’s Strengths?

Testing for dyslexia is not about looking at just your child’s weaknesses.  Look at your child’s strengths, too.  Are they great at drama, performing, building, sports, or other hands-on activities?  Perhaps your child has a great memory when it comes to people’s faces, experiences, or locations.  Usually a child with dyslexia will be strong in the arts or drama in school.

Other Symptoms to Look For

Other signs you can look for when assessing your child for dyslexia are their habits outside of education.  If your child was late to develop in early developmental stages, such as walking or crawling, it might be a clue.  Children with dyslexia may also have a hard time concentrating on tasks and may be more of a “class clown” or “troublemaker.”  Other children may even wet the bed later than they are supposed to or be considered a light sleeper.

When it comes to testing for dyslexia in your child, there are many signs and symptoms to look for.  The most obvious signs are how your child performs at school, especially when it comes to reading and writing.  If your child does appear to have dyslexia, talk with your child’s doctor.  They can further test your child.  With the help of your child’s doctor and the school board, you can find several different tools and resources to make your child’s learning environment a successful one. 

Photos by jemsweb and bestlibrarian