Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability that affects how a child learns to read, spell, and process written language.

Children with dyslexia often struggle with decoding, reading fluency, and spelling. Importantly, dyslexia is not related to intelligence—many bright children struggle because their brain processes language differently.

The most accurate way to understand this is through a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation on Long Island

Common signs include:

• Difficulty sounding out words

• Slow or effortful reading

• Guessing words instead of decoding

• Poor spelling

• Avoidance of reading

In older students:

• Reading takes significantly longer than expected

• Strong verbal skills but weaker reading performance

• Increasing frustration or school avoidance

You can also review a more detailed breakdown of signs of dyslexia in children.

In preschool and early elementary years:

• Difficulty learning letters and sounds

• Trouble rhyming

• Delayed word retrieval

• Difficulty remembering sequences

Early identification is critical. Catching these patterns early can prevent years of frustration.

These concerns are often clarified through a diagnostic clarity evaluation for learning and attention concerns

Yes, dyslexia is highly genetic.

If a parent or sibling has dyslexia, the likelihood increases significantly. Many parents recognize similar patterns in themselves during their child’s evaluation.

Dyslexia is caused by differences in how the brain processes language, including:

• Phonological processing

• Rapid naming

• Orthographic processing

These are foundational skills for reading.

👉 Some children also have related learning differences such as dysgraphia (writing difficulties) or dyscalculia (math difficulties), which can impact overall academic performance.

No, this is a common myth.

Letter reversals are developmentally normal in young children and do not indicate dyslexia on their own. Dyslexia is primarily a language-based difficulty, not a visual problem.

Yes, dyslexia often co-occurs with:

• ADHD

• Executive functioning difficulties

• Anxiety related to school

This is why a comprehensive evaluation for diagnostic clarity is important to understand the full picture.

Risk factors include:

• Family history of reading difficulties

• Early language delays

• Difficulty learning letters and sounds

• Limited progress despite extra help

If your child is working hard but not improving, it’s worth taking a closer look.

Dyslexia is identified through a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation, not a brief screening.

This evaluation looks at:

• Reading and language skills

• Cognitive and executive functioning

• Underlying processing weaknesses

Many families choose private testing for faster answers and more detailed results. Learn more about the difference between private and school evaluations.

Testing can be helpful as early as kindergarten or first grade if concerns are present.

However, many children are identified later when:

• Reading demands increase

• Work becomes more complex

• Compensation strategies stop working

Earlier identification leads to better outcomes.

The most important step is getting clarity and the right support.

Effective support includes:

• Structured, evidence-based reading instruction

• School accommodations (IEP or 504 plan)

• Reducing frustration and building confidence

The right plan starts with a neuropsychological evaluation on Long Island

If you’re noticing signs of dyslexia, a private neuropsychological evaluation on Long Island can provide faster and more detailed answers.

At Duhning Psychological Services, evaluations are designed to provide:

• Clear diagnostic answers

• A practical, school-ready plan

• Confidence in how to move forward

Start here: neuropsychological evaluations on Long Island