Dyslexia North East

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Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions ...

1. What is dyslexia ?

Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty which is often associated with good intelligence, but with difficulties in reading, writing, spelling and working with numbers. There are often problems such as poor memory, untidiness, lack of organisation, as well as sequencing days of the week, the alphabet and multiplication tables.

Each individual is different, so needs proper individual assessment, so that the right help and guidance is given.

2. What is dyspraxia ?

Dyspraxia is a term used to describe an individual with balance or co-ordination difficulties. In other words, it affects someone in their ability to write, kick a football, or catch a ball, or sense their awareness in space. It is sometimes referred to as DCD or Developmental Co-ordination Disorder. Referral to a Paediatric Occupational Therapist would be very helpful, so assessment and appropriate exercises can be given.

3. Where do I get help for my child ?

Talk to your SENCO, or Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator at the School where your child is. If you need more advice, you can speak to the Parent Partnership advisor for the area where you live, and where the School is situated. Contact details are available from Dyslexia North East.

4. What is Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome ?
( Also known as Meares-Irlen Syndrome or Visual Stress)

This condition can affect up to 50% of individuals with dyslexia, so it is important to be aware of the effects of this syndrome.
It manifests itself by distortions of visual perception, so a child or adult may see letters "shimmering" , "swirling" or moving about on the page. They do not realise that this should not happen, and often they believe that everyone has this particular problem when trying to read!           

If you think this problem affects you, it is important to have your eyes assessed by a qualified optometrist who can check the functions of the eyes in detail. Then the optometrist can check whether appropriate coloured overlays or lenses can stabilise the letters and shimmering effect . This can radically affect a person's life and make all the difference if the condition is diagnosed and treated correctly!

Optometrist who specialises in Visual Dyslexia

It is very important to have tests performed by an Optometrist who is experienced in dealing with visual stress problems.

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