Dyslexia has been little understood or noted for most of recorded history. Almost all that we have learned about dyslexia has been in the last 25 years.
Dyslexics learn differently. Their eyes see the same but their brains interpret the signals from the eyes differently than those of non-dyslexics. It’s O.K., many famous people have been dyslexic. But to reach full potential they need to be taught differently, according to their needs.
For a little over 15 years now, elementary schools have routinely screened for learning disabilities dyslexia. Any child who had problems with reading was selected to go through a full-scale professional dyslexic test followed by individual evaluation.
Those who went through grade school more than 15 years ago almost all bear the scars of being hammered into molds that did not fit. They were ridiculed for their differences, looked at as retarded (which most are definitely not!), slow learners, etc. They were embarrassed and learn to hide their differences.
Millions of adult dyslexics today have never taken a dyslexia test. They still struggle with learning and reading difficulties that could be easily overcome if they were only known. A half-hour dyslexia test could make enormous improvements in their self-esteem and abilities.
There are a large number of different types of dyslexia to deal with. There is no standard definition, no real, workable way to sort them out into types and put them into nice, neat categories. Each one is different and needs to be evaluated and taught accordingly.
Today there are literally millions of adult dyslexics that are unaware that they are dyslexic. That is why dyslexia tests for adults are so important. With a test, they can be identified and helped. Without being tested, they probably will never be able to reach their full potential.
For more info on dyslexia and how it can be overcome, click on any of the above links.
Disclaimer: This posting is based on information freely available in the popular press and medical journals that deal with dyslexia. Nothing herein is intended to be or should be construed to be medical advice. For medical advice the reader should consult with his or her physician or other medical specialist.
Written by Emanuel Sandusky