This is why I created this checklist. Based on the most current research and organized by specific age levels, this is an excellent resource for busy parents looking to pre-screen for dyslexia, organized in an easy-to-read checklist format.

But before we get into that, let’s do a quick review to make sure you’re in the right place. Here are some quick facts about dyslexia:

• Dyslexia is one of many language-based disabilities and learning disabilities, and it affects around 20% of the population worldwide.
• Signs of dyslexia can be a little different, depending on the child’s age and other factors. Generally speaking, they include difficulty recognizing letters and sounds, struggling with phonological awareness, slow reading speed, trouble understanding written instructions, and poor spelling abilities.
• It’s usually diagnosed using diagnostic assessments, observations in a classroom setting, and an evaluation of the child’s family history.
• A child with dyslexia can qualify for special education services at school.

The good news is that dyslexia is a learning difference, meaning that children with dyslexia can still be very successful with the appropriate support. Lastly, early intervention is important, which I’m sure is part of the reason why you’re reading this right now.

If this sounds like what you’re looking for, keep reading! Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, here is a checklist for signs and symptoms of dyslexia as well as practical strategies for aspects of everyday life.

Dyslexia Symptoms Checklist for Children in Kindergarten to 5th Grade

Dyslexic children in elementary school can present in varied ways. Here are some signs to look for in children from kindergarten to 5th grade:

Difficulty with Phonological Awareness

• Struggles with recognizing and manipulating sounds in words
• Has difficulty rhyming or identifying beginning, middle, and ending sounds in words
• Struggles with blending sounds to make words

Issues with Reading Fluency and Comprehension

• Reads slowly and hesitantly, often making errors or skipping words
• Has trouble understanding what they have read or remembering details from the text
• Struggles with reading aloud or expressing thoughts about a text

Challenges with Spelling and Writing

• Makes frequent spelling errors, including switching letters or omitting sounds in words
• Has difficulty organizing thoughts and ideas for writing assignments
• Struggles with handwriting and letter formation

Trouble with Identifying Letters and Words

• Struggles to recognize and name letters of the alphabet
• Has difficulty reading common sight words or frequently used words
• Confuses similar looking letters or reverses them (such as b and d)

Difficulty with Memory and Processing Information

• Struggles to remember numbers, sequences, or instructions
• Has trouble following multi-step directions or remembering details from a story
• May have a hard time remembering the names of people or objects

Issues with Focus and Attention

• Has trouble staying on task or completing assignments independently
• Struggles to pay attention and may appear easily distracted
• May have difficulty following oral instructions or conversations

Other Possible Signs of Dyslexia

• Has a family history of dyslexia or learning disabilities
• Shows signs of frustration, low self-esteem, or avoidance of reading and writing tasks
• May have trouble with other academic areas such as math or spelling

Dyslexia Checklist for Children in 6th-8th Grade

For most dyslexic students, the middle school years can be particularly challenging. With increased academic demands, longer assignments, and more complex subject matter, students with dyslexia may struggle even more in these grades. The following checklist can help identify potential signs of dyslexia at this age:

• Difficulty decoding or sounding out unfamiliar words
• Struggles to read fluently or accurately
• Has trouble with spelling and writing assignments
• Has difficulty understanding what they have read or remembering details from the text
• Struggles with reading aloud or expressing thoughts about a text
• Makes frequent spelling errors, including switching letters or omitting sounds in words
• Has trouble organizing thoughts and ideas for writing assignments
• Struggles to comprehend and follow multi-step directions or instructions
• Has difficulty with math word problems or understanding mathematical concepts
• Avoids reading and writing tasks, or shows signs of frustration and low self-esteem when faced with these tasks
• Confuses similar looking letters or reverses them while reading or writing (such as b and d)
• Has trouble remembering names of people or objects
• Struggles to pay attention and stay focused during class or independent work time. 11. Has a family history of dyslexia or learning disabilities.
• May appear easily distracted or have a hard time following oral instructions or conversations.
• Shows signs of slow, hesitant reading with frequent pauses and mistakes.
• Struggles with reading comprehension, often needing to reread passages to fully understand them.
• Has trouble understanding and using complex vocabulary words.
• May have difficulty with time management and completing assignments on time.
• Has a hard time remembering facts and details from previous lessons or conversations.
• Avoids activities that involve reading or writing, such as book reports or essays.
• Has trouble staying organized and keeping track of assignments and materials.
• Struggles with taking notes during class or summarizing information in their own words.
• May have difficulty with social interactions, particularly with peers who may not understand their learning challenges.

Checklist of Symptoms for Dyslexia in High School Children

High schoolers are young adults and  may have been living with dyslexia for most of their life without a formal diagnosis. As they enter the high school years, they may encounter new academic challenges and struggle to keep up with their peers. Here are some common signs that your teenager may have dyslexia:

• Difficulty with math word problems or understanding mathematical concepts
• Avoidance of reading and writing tasks, such as essays and research papers
• Difficulty organizing thoughts and ideas, both verbally and in written form
• Trouble understanding complex vocabulary words or abstract concepts
• Struggles with spelling, especially when reading out loud or writing under time constraints
• Frequent mistakes when reading aloud or difficulty following along while listening to someone else read
• Difficulty reading accurately and fluently
• Poor spelling skills despite having good intelligence and education
• Struggling with remembering sequences, such as the alphabet or days of the week
• Trouble understanding jokes or idioms
• Slow reading speed compared to peers
• Difficulty following written instructions
• Consistently misspelling the same words
• Difficulty with organization and time management
• Struggling with note-taking and summarizing information
• Avoiding reading out loud or participating in class discussions that involve reading
• Difficulty with word retrieval and vocabulary recall
• Poor handwriting skills despite having good fine motor skills
• Trouble understanding graphs, charts, and other visual aids in textbooks
• Difficulty with learning a foreign language
• Low self-esteem and frustration with academic performance despite effort and intelligence

Tips and Strategies for Parents of Children with Dyslexia

Parenting a struggling reader can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right support, resources, and strategies in place, meeting the needs of children with dyslexia can not only be easier, but it can really help them to thrive academically and personally. As a parent, it’s important to understand your child’s unique learning needs and to advocate for them in their educational journey. This next section is all about practical tips, strategies, and advice for parents of children with dyslexia to help you (or someone you love) support their child’s learning and development. From effective communication with teachers to creating a positive learning environment at home, these tips will empower parents to be strong advocates for their child and help them reach their full potential. 

I’m also a huge proponent of parents doing a little self-study because I believe that education is the path to you becoming your child’s greatest asset. 

Here are some helpful resources for learning more about dyslexia:

• “The Dyslexic Advantage” by Drs. Brock and Fernette Eide
• “Overcoming Dyslexia” by Sally Shaywitz, MD
• “Dyslexia Advocate!: How to Advocate for Yourself or Your Child with Dyslexia” by Kelli Sandman-Hurley, EdD.
• The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) and Understood.org offer a wealth of information on a wide range of topics for parents and educators.
• Support groups: this can be an excellent resource! Connecting with other parents and families who are also supporting children with dyslexia can provide valuable insights, support, and useful advice. You can find local support groups through organizations like the IDA or through online communities.

In conclusion, supporting a child with dyslexia can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that their intelligence and potential are not defined by their learning difference. With the right support and accommodations, they can thrive academically and beyond. Additionally, as a parent, educating yourself about dyslexia can help you better understand your child’s needs and provide effective support. Don’t hesitate to reach out to resources and support groups for additional guidance and advice.