8th October is observed as World Dyslexia Awareness Day. Dyslexia is a learning disorder that involves difficulty reading due to problems identifying speech sounds and learning how they relate to letters and words (decoding). Also called reading disability, dyslexia affects areas of the brain that process language. World Dyslexia Awareness Day raises awareness about the understanding of dyslexia and help to bring about positive change.

Dyslexia is a neurological difference and can have a significant impact during education, in the workplace and in everyday life. People with dyslexia have difficulty manipulating the sounds and letters of language, but as each person is unique, so is everyone’s experience of dyslexia. It can range from mild to severe, and it can co-occur with other learning differences.  The exact cause of dyslexia is unknown but It usually runs in families and is a life-long condition. Dyslexia is a disorder present at birth and cannot be prevented or cured, but it can be managed with special instruction and support.

If you look around, there are many famous dyslexics that have helped change the world. Thomas Edison, inventor of the light bulb had dyslexia. CEO and inventor of Apple Inc, Steve Jobs. People with dyslexia have the ability to see how things connect to form complex systems, and to identify similarities among multiple things. Such strengths are likely to be of particular significance for fields like science and mathematics, where visual representations are key. People with dyslexia are generally individuals of higher than average IQ, born with inquisitive minds and a strong work ethic.

If you think your child may have dyslexia, the first step is to speak to their teacher or their school’s special educational needs coordinator about your concerns. They may be able to offer additional support to help your child if necessary.