Resources for Parents

Information and guidance for parents. Below are a number of links to web sites and further information about dyslexia, how to identify it, and where to get help with this and other learning difficulties.

Definition of Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent word reading and spelling.

Characteristic features of dyslexia are difficulties in phonological awareness, verbal memory and verbal processing speed.
Dyslexia occurs across the range of intellectual abilities.
It is best thought of as a continuum, not a distinct category and there are no clear cut-off points.
Co-occurring difficulties may be seen in aspects of language, motor co-ordination, mental calculation, concentration and personal organisation, but these are not, by themselves, markers of dyslexia.
A good indication of the severity and persistence of dyslexia difficulties can be gained by examining how the individual responds or has responded to well-founded intervention.

Source: The Rose Report 2009, Pg 29. - Identifying and Teaching Children and Young People with Dyslexia and Literacy Difficulties.

Questions about Dyslexia? Please open this PDF version of our leaflet for more information.

Questions about Dyslexia?

What can I do if I think my child is dyslexic?

If your child is struggling to learn in certain areas and you think they may be dyslexic, you may wish to look at the recognised indicators provided by the British Dyslexia Association (BDA) here

For older children and young people, you may also wish to take the Dyslexia Test, provided by Xtraordinary People. This is not a formal diagnosis but highlights common issues facing dyslexics and indicates likelihood.

How can I get help if my child is dyslexic?

There are many organisations who can help. 1 in 10 people in the UK is dyslexic, so you you are not alone. In the first instance, you should;

speak to your child's teacher
contact your school SENCO (Special Education Needs Co-ordinator)
call the BDA National Helpline, which is supported by The Trust, on 0845 251 9002.

What if I need more information?

The Trust recently launched an online tool to identify and provide information on supporting children and young people with literacy difficulties. The tool is called Interventions for Literacy and is available on www.interventionsforliteracy.org.uk You can get key information here.

You may also wish to view the websites of some Trust Member organisations.

What about other Specific Learning Difficulties?

Other useful links for support of those with Specific Learning Difficulties are:

Parental Engagement

The Department for Education has published a review of best practice for parental engagement in schools that highlights the benefits these approaches can have both on families and the academic achievements of pupils. The report outlines the effective features of parental strategies, and the importance of an outwards facing strategy that engages with voluntary and community organisations that can provide specialist support in areas such as mental health and community issues. To read the full report please click here: https://www.education.gov.uk/publications/RSG/AllPublications/Page1/DFE-RR156

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