What is Dyslexia?
- Emma Blackburn
- Oct 6
- 2 min read
🌟Dyslexia Awareness Week🌟
Dyslexia is a language-based difference that affects how the brain processes written and spoken information.
It can make reading, spelling, and writing more effortful, and may also affect working memory and processing speed.
The core difficulty in dyslexia lies in phonological processing - how the brain identifies, remembers, and works with the sounds in language.
This includes:
🔹 Phonological awareness – recognising and manipulating sounds in words (e.g. blending and segmenting)
🔹 Phonological processing speed – how quickly someone can access and use sound-based information
🔹 Phonological memory – holding and recalling sounds in the right order
Dyslexia is not linked to intelligence - in fact, many people with dyslexia demonstrate exceptional creativity, problem-solving skills, and empathy.
Everyone with dyslexia is different, and the right support can make a world of difference.
👁️ Dyslexia and Visual Difficulties
Dyslexia itself is not caused by visual problems, but visual stress or visual processing difficulties can sometimes occur alongside it.
Because of this, assessors now follow the SASC (2025) Visual Difficulties Screening Protocol before assessment.
If visual symptoms are flagged, families are encouraged to book a specialist optometrist assessment (approx. £65) to explore this further.
Possible signs of visual stress include:
Words appearing to move, blur, shimmer, or double on the page
Sensitivity to light or glare (especially under fluorescent lighting)
Headaches, eye strain, or fatigue when reading
Difficulty tracking text or frequently losing place while reading
These are separate from dyslexia but can make reading uncomfortable, so identifying them ensures every child receives the right type of support.
📄 Read the official Visual Difficulties Screening Protocol (SASC, 2025) here:
💡What Can Help
Early identification – timely screening and intervention lead to better outcomes.
Structured, evidence-based teaching – focused on phonological awareness and language skills.
Environmental adjustments – overlays, reduced glare, or adapted print if visual stress is present.
Confidence and self-advocacy – helping children understand their strengths and ask for the support they need.
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