> About Dyslexia > FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is dyslexia?
The word 'dyslexia' comes from the Greek and means 'difficulty with words'.
Definition: Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty which mainly affects the development of literacy and language related skills.
It is likely to be present at birth and to be lifelong in its effects. It is characterised by difficulties with phonological processing, rapid naming, working memory, processing speed, and the automatic development of skills that may not match up to an individual’s other cognitive abilities.
It tends to be resistant to conventional teaching methods, but its effects can be mitigated by appropriately specific intervention, including the application of information technology and supportive counselling.
Q: How can I tell if I am dyslexic?
Look at the indications of dyslexia or complete the adult dyslexia checklist and then follow this up with a full Educational Psychologist's Assessment if the matter needs to be taken further. If you are just starting to find out about dyslexia, here is a more expansive guide on how to begin.
Q: Where can I find help?
From a local dyslexia association or the BDA National Helpline.
Q: Where can I find an Educational Psychologist and will I have to pay for an assessment?
School children can often be referred to their local education authority educational psychologist for assessment and unemployed adults can sometimes be referred via their job centre. Local dyslexia associations normally have a list of suggested independent Educational psychologists. The cost will vary from one area to another. For others who have no financial means, bursaries are often available from Assessment Centres.
Q: Where can I find a specialist teacher?
Most of the local dyslexia associations keep a list. You might also find one from PATOSS (Professional Association for Teachers of Students with Specific Difficulties) or one of the other Organisational Members of the British Dyslexia Association.
Q: My child has not yet started school but is already showing signs of dyslexia. Who should I speak to about this?
Your child's nursery teacher or health visitor will be able to point you in the right direction. You could also look at the Code of Practice.
Q: Nobody at my child's school seems to be listening to my concerns. What can I do?
Ask to speak to the SENCO (special educational needs coordinator). Every school must now have a teacher with this responsibility.
Q: Is it possible to drop learning a foreign language at school when a child has difficulties with their own language?
Yes sometimes. However, many dyslexic people do experience great success with foreign languages and there should be no generalisation. Some languages are easier than others.
Q: It seems that being dyslexia means additional financial costs. Is there any help that I can get?
It may be possible to claim disability living allowance. Students too in Higher Education can be considered for the student disability allowance. Librarians are usually a good source to assist with researching for other funding.
