What is a Specific Learning Difference (SpLD)?
A Specific Learning Difference (SpLD) is a neurological difference that affects how a person learns and processes information. SpLDs are unique to each individual and can impact areas such as reading, writing, memory, organisation, and attention. Dyslexia is one of the most common SpLDs, but others include dyspraxia (DCD), dyscalculia, and ADHD. These differences often co-occur, meaning a person with dyslexia may also experience challenges related to another SpLD.
What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a specific type of SpLD that affects how the brain processes information. While it is most commonly associated with difficulties in reading, writing and spelling, it goes beyond literacy skills, impacting areas such as memory, coordination, and organisational abilities. Dyslexia can also make it harder to process and remember visual and verbal information. Each individual’s experience of dyslexia is unique. For some, it may co-occur with other specific learning difficulties, adding further complexity. Dyslexia often runs in families and is a lifelong condition, presenting challenges not only in education but also in the workplace and everyday life. However, it’s important to recognise the strengths that come with thinking differently. Many dyslexic individuals excel in reasoning, problem-solving, and creative or visual fields, bringing unique perspectives and talents to their personal and professional lives.
Dyslexia is often misunderstood as a difficulty, but in reality, it’s a different way of thinking and learning. By recognising dyslexia as a learning difference, we focus on strengths, build confidence, and create a more inclusive environment. This short video explores what it means to embrace dyslexia as a difference and how this understanding can support individuals to thrive.
Benefits of a Diagnostic Assessment
A diagnostic assessment can be beneficial for a range of reasons, including:
- Helping parents better understand their child’s challenges and learning how to support them at home or ask for more tailored assistance within the education system.
- Supporting individuals to understand their unique strengths and challenges, fostering greater self-awareness, reducing feelings of frustration and promoting self-esteem and confidence.
- Accessing Support at University by applying for the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA).
- Providing recommendations for Exam Access Arrangements: For school, college, university, or professional qualifications.
- Offering evidence for employers to enable reasonable adjustments in your workplace to support your needs.
- Providing recommendations for further investigations or onward referrals to other professional services.
- A formal diagnosis of dyslexia means the individual is recognised as having a disability protected under the Equality Act 2010.
Considering a Dyslexia Assessment? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you or your child are experiencing persistent difficulties with literacy skills, you may be considering a dyslexia assessment. Often, teachers first raise concerns about slower progress or ongoing challenges in specific areas.
Some common signs of dyslexia include:
- Difficulties with reading
- Trouble with spelling
- Issues with writing
- Difficulties hearing and breaking down sounds in words
- Memory problems
- Slower processing speed
- Challenges with organisation
- Feelings of frustration, anxiety or lack of confidence about learning tasks
If your child is showing signs of dyslexia, it’s a good idea to start by discussing your concerns with their teacher or the school’s SENDCo (Special Educational Needs and Disability Coordinator). Support and interventions can often be put in place without the need for a formal diagnosis. However, a more detailed investigation may be helpful if difficulties persist despite appropriate support.
While some schools offer dyslexia screenings, it’s important to note that these can only indicate possible dyslexic tendencies; they do not provide a diagnosis. A full diagnostic assessment for dyslexia goes further, offering a detailed understanding of an individual’s cognitive profile, including both their strengths and challenges. This insight ensures that any support provided is tailored to their specific needs, making it as effective as possible.