Dyslexia alone rarely qualifies someone for disability benefits. Dyslexia is a type of learning disability that causes problems with reading, writing, and occasionally speaking. It is the most common learning disability among children, and its symptoms, especially if left untreated, often persist into adulthood.

Dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia fall under the “specific learning disability” category.

Children who are diagnosed with learning disabilities may have trouble reading, writing, or speaking. For example, dyslexia is a learning disability that affects a kid’s ability to read letters and numbers, while dyscalculia affects their ability to understand math problems.

Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. Dyslexia refers to a cluster of symptoms, which result in people having difficulties with specific language skills, particularly reading. Students with dyslexia usually experience difficulties with other language skills such as spelling, writing, and pronouncing words.

Research has shown that some students with reading disabilities can decode or recognize words, but still struggle to comprehend written text. The federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act names dyslexia as an example of a disability included under the broader term “specific learning disabilities.”

Schools must use the word “dyslexia” so that proper diagnosis and evidence-based instruction and intervention can be applied. Once a diagnosis of dyslexia has been confirmed, it is so important that the word “dyslexia” be used by teachers, administrators, parents, and anyone on the student’s support team.

With specialized reading instruction and basic accommodations, dyslexic learners at any school can become engaged, high-performing students. Our son required specialized instruction and accommodations throughout school, and because of those supports, he was able to not only survive, but thrive academically.