What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a Specific Learning Disorder that primarily affects reading and language processing.

Children with dyslexia may find it difficult to:

• Recognise and decode words
• Connect letters with sounds
• Spell accurately
• Read fluently

​It is important to understand:

• Dyslexia is not related to intelligence
• Many children with dyslexia are bright and capable
• It reflects a difference in how the brain processes language

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What Parents Often Notice
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​Parents often describe:

• Their child struggling to learn to read
• Difficulty remembering words
• Slow or effortful reading
• Avoidance of reading tasks
• Frustration or loss of confidence

Signs of Dyslexia by Age

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How Dyslexia Affects Learning

Dyslexia can impact multiple areas, including:

Reading

• Difficulty decoding words
• Reduced reading fluency

​Spelling

• Trouble remembering correct spelling
• Inconsistent spelling patterns

Writing

• Difficulty expressing ideas in writing
• Slower written output

Confidence and Emotional Wellbeing

• Frustration with schoolwork
• Avoidance of reading
• Reduced self-confidence

Why Is My Child Struggling to Read?

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Dyslexia vs Other Learning Difficulties

Dyslexia specifically affects reading and language processing.

​However, it can sometimes occur alongside:

• Writing difficulties (dysgraphia)
• Maths difficulties (dyscalculia)
• Attention challenges

A comprehensive understanding helps guide the right support.

Learning Difficulties vs ADHD

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What Causes Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a brain-based learning difference that affects how children process language, particularly:

• Sound awareness (phonological processing)
• Word recognition
• Spelling

​It is important to understand:

• It is not caused by lack of effort
• It is not related to intelligence
• With the right support, children can improve their reading skills

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Is It Dyslexia or Just a Delay?

​Some children take longer to learn to read.

​It may be worth exploring dyslexia if:

• Difficulties persist over time
• Progress remains slow despite support
• Reading challenges are more significant than expected for age

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Dyslexia Assessment (What to Expect)

An assessment can help provide clarity and guide support.

A dyslexia assessment may include:

• Cognitive assessment (e.g. WISC-V)
• Academic assessment (e.g. WIAT-III)
• Review of reading and language skills
• Questionnaires and background information

​The outcome:

• Understanding of strengths and challenges
• Clarification of whether dyslexia is present
• Recommendations for school and home

How to Get a Learning Assessment in WA

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How We Support Children with Dyslexia

Occupational Therapy (OT)

• Supporting attention and task engagement
• Visual tracking and processing
• Supporting school participation

​Speech Pathology (SP)

• Phonological awareness
• Reading and decoding skills
• Language comprehension

Psychology Assessments

• Cognitive and academic assessments
• Diagnostic clarification
• Detailed reports for schools and supports

Counselling Support

• Supporting confidence and self-esteem
• Managing frustration around learning
• Emotional regulation strategies

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)

• Understanding avoidance behaviours
• Supporting engagement in reading tasks
• Practical strategies for home and school

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School & Parent Support

• Strategies for reading at home
• Collaboration with teachers
• Supporting consistent routines

Telehealth Across WA

• Access services regardless of location
• Flexible support options

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What To Do Next

If you’re concerned your child may have dyslexia:

1. Speak with Your Child’s Teacher

• Understand how they are progressing
• Ask about reading support

2. Monitor Patterns

• Are difficulties ongoing?
• Is your child becoming frustrated or avoiding reading?

3. Consider Support Early

• Therapy and strategies can begin without a diagnosis

4. Consider an Assessment

• Provides clarity and direction
• Helps guide school and home support

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Download Our Dyslexia Signs Checklist

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When to Seek Support

​It may be helpful to seek support if:

• Reading difficulties are ongoing
• Your child is becoming frustrated or avoiding reading
• Progress is slower than expected

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Not Sure?
​
If you’re unsure whether your child’s reading difficulties may be linked to dyslexia, we can help guide you through the next steps.
Contact us to get started
Ask about dyslexia assessments or support
Access services across Perth, Mandurah, and WA

​Book a free 20-minute call with our team

Our team is here to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us an email here

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