How to Identify Dyslexia | Emotional Dysregulation in Children | E222

How to Identify Dyslexia in ChildrenIf your child struggles with reading, spelling, or attention, you’re not failing as a parent. How to identify dyslexia starts with understanding that it’s a neurological, language-based difference—not a vision problem.In this episode, you’ll learn:How how to identify dyslexia early through phonological and decoding assessmentsKey behaviors that distinguish dyslexia from ADHD or inattentivenessStructured literacy and home supports for Self-Regulation Skills for ChildrenHow to partner with schools while protecting confidence and motivationEarly signs of dyslexiaLook for:Struggling with rhyming, letter-sound matching, or speech delaysSlow, effortful reading, spelling errors, or writing avoidanceAfter-school meltdowns from overworking to decode wordsRed flags:Reliance on memorization without decodingPersistent spelling mistakesEmotional signs of frustration or anxietyAssessment strategiesUse C-TOPP (phonological processing) and WADE (decoding/encoding)Check reading fluency and spelling progressAssess IQ, phonological, and working memory to compare potential vs performanceConsider a QEEG brain map for insight into attention and processingParent insight: Many dyslexic kids appear inattentive because decoding drains cognitive resources.Differentiating dyslexia from ADHDADHD: attention, impulsivity, and executive functioning challengesDyslexia: decoding overload, spelling errors, and fluency strugglesEffective reading interventionsStructured, multisensory literacy programs include:Orton–Gillingham, Wilson, Lindamood-BellDaily practice, cumulative review, and data trackingTargeted IEP goals for decoding, spelling, and fluencyHome support: short, frequent decoding exercises and read-alouds for vocabularySchool support: individualized instruction, decodable texts, and accommodations for masteryPartnering with the schoolRequest IEP or 504 accommodations for reading supportsAsk for decodable texts, controlled spelling lists, extended time, and oral responsesPraise effort, keep reading below frustration level, and protect confidenceParent example: Middle-schooler uses speech-to-text for drafting, then practices targeted spelling patterns during interventions.Listen + Take the Next StepGet your FREE Regulation Rescue Kit to support reading and emotional regulation: 👉 www.drroseann.com/newsletterTakeawayHow to identify dyslexia involves observing early signs, using structured assessments, and supporting the brain through regulation-first strategies.FAQsQ1: At what age can dyslexia be identified? Screening can begin in kindergarten; don’t wait until 3rd grade.Q2: Is dyslexia linked to low intelligence? No. Many dyslexic children have average or above-average IQs.Q3: What accommodations help immediately? Decodable texts, audiobooks, extra time, reduced copying, and alternatives to written output.Q4: Can dyslexic children also have ADHD? Yes. High cognitive load from reading can mimic attention challenges.Q5: How do I support emotional regulation during reading? Use structured routines, visual supports, co-regulation, and short, frequent practice sessions.Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge helps parents understand Emotional Dysregulation in Children and teaches practical Nervous System Regulation in Children and Co-Regulation Techniques through Regulation First Parenting™.