What Is Dyslexia

 

We’ve heard the term ‘Dyslexia’, but what does it mean? Is it that the person lacks understanding and comprehension skills? Is it that they are unable to write words properly or is it a challenge associated with reading? Let’s delve a bit deeper as we explain more about what exactly is dyslexia. 

What is dyslexia? 

Dyslexia is defined as difficulty learning to read that is unexpected. While dyslexia impairs an individual's ability to read quickly and automatically, as well as recall spoken words, it does not impair their inventiveness or ingenuity. Dyslexia is a learning disorder that affects language.  

Described as "... a particular learning issue that is neurological in nature," dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. Poor spelling and decoding skills, issues with precise and/or fluent word recognition, are the main characteristics of this condition. These issues are often brought on by a phonological impairment in language, which is frequently unanticipated in light of other cognitive skills. The development of vocabulary and background information may be hampered by reading comprehension issues and a decreased reading experience, which are secondary effects. The Annals of Dyslexia, 2003, p. 2, by Lyon, Shaywitz, and Shaywitz.

One of the most prevalent language-based learning disorders is assumed to be dyslexia. It is the most frequent reason for problems with reading, writing, and spelling. The primary marker of dyslexia is an inability to interpret the sound (phonological) elements of language.

A main contributing factor is typically a problem with phonological processing, which impacts a person's capacity for speaking, reading, spelling, and frequently learning a second language.

Reading is difficult. In order to read effectively, one needs to be able to make a connection between letters and their sounds then arrange those sounds correctly, stringing the words together into sentences and paragraphs that we can read and comprehend. People with dyslexia have difficulty matching the letters they see on the page to the sounds those letters and letter combinations make. When they struggle with that step, the rest of the steps become more difficult.

Who does dyslexia affect? 

Dyslexia is not limited to one age bracket, ethnic group or gender - anyone can be dyslexic. Dyslexic does not mean lack of intelligence, many smart persons can also be dyslexic. 

Can dyslexic persons learn to read ? 

While dyslexia is permanent and cannot be "cured',  dyslexic people can achieve great success as children and adults. The key is early diagnosis and intervention. The majority of dyslexic kids and adults can learn to read, however it will require more work than it would for their peers. The average youngster can learn to read "fluently," which refers to reading being effortless, quick, and enjoyable. Many dyslexic persons, however, continue to be readers who read slowly even with a lot of effort. 

At The Caribbean Academy for Reading Intervention and Development, we offer an Individual Reading Assistance Program that assists struggling readers to build skills in: 

• Sight words and high-frequency words 

• Sounds recognition 

• Reading comprehension 

• Letter and word recognition 

• Phonics and phonemic awareness 

Our Reading Assistance Programme is designed to teach the foundational skills of reading to children with significant academic challenges, empowering them to achieve grade-level proficiency. Our dedicated tutors help struggling readers understand the basic mechanics of reading and help them develop critical reading skills that will help them develop a lifelong love of reading. 

Target Audience: Struggling readers between the ages of 5 years to 10 years. 

Persons interested in our Individual Reading Assistance Program can contact us at 1-868-474-9819. 

Chrystal Murray has a passion for imparting knowledge and adding value to the lives of others.

She has been an educator for over 14 years. She holds a B.A. Degree in History and Education from the University of the West Indies (UWI). She also possesses several professional certificates in Understanding Dyslexia, Successful Educational Strategies for Children with Special Needs, and Supporting Multiple Abilities through Differentiation just to name a few. She is also certified in Counselling Youth and Children and Parenting the Adolescent. Chrystal is the Founder and Principal of two academic institutions, the Caribbean Ivy League Academy and the Caribbean Academy for Reading Intervention and Development. She founded the Caribbean Academy for Reading Intervention and Development where she works assiduously with children who have reading challenges. She also uses this platform to motivate, inspire and help build confidence in the children who are in her care.

 

 

 

Chrystal Murray 

Reading Interventionist 

1-868-474-9819