Dyslexia is a learning disorder that involves difficulty reading due to problems identifying speech sounds and learning how they relate to letters and words.
In Nigeria, having a learning disorder can be a lot more difficult than it would be in more developed countries, especially where reading, writing and studying are the only benchmarks in education. This is usually due to a lack of information about dyslexia.
Unfortunately, it becomes increasingly difficult for children living with this condition during the back-to-school season. To do away with the misconceptions and misinformation, here are a few things you should know about it.
1. One in ten people are dyslexic
Dyslexia is not that rare. Studies show that 1 out of every 10 people has this learning disability. It is not a rare form of disease or a curse. It is a lot more common than you think.
2. Dyslexia is hereditary
Learning disabilities are mostly passed down from parents to their children. The parents themselves may not have the disability, but they can carry it to their children through recessive genes.
3. Dyslexic people process information differently
The marker for this disability is that dyslexic people process information a bit differently from what is considered normal. This does not mean that they do not function properly. Allowances just have to be made to accommodate the differences.
4. Dyslexic people are not stupid
People living with dyslexia do not have lower levels of intelligence than the average person. As said in the last point, they just process information differently. No one should make them feel stupid for being different.
5. There are benefits to dyslexia
People living with dyslexia may have the capacity for critical thinking. Also, they may possess higher levels of creativity and better communication skills.
6. There are different patterns of dyslexia
No two dyslexic people are the same. The disability expresses itself in different ways. Some may have very high levels of intelligence and creativity. Likewise, some may also require a lot more effort to cope in their education.
7. Dyslexia is best managed when discovered early
Early diagnosis of this learning disability is very helpful. Parents can lay the groundwork for their child to learn better and feel more confident. The encouragement of parents goes a long way to helping the child’s mental and emotional health.
Summarily, the most important thing to note when dealing with a dyslexic person is to focus on their strengths. They have the potential to be more successful than other people without the disorder.
As you send your children back to school, remember to play up, nurture and also harness their strengths and abilities. Finally, encourage them and do not focus on where they are lacking. This will then help them live fuller and happier lives.
