Children with dyslexia may show a range of literacy and learning differences. These may become more noticeable once reading and writing demands increase at school.

Some common signs of dyslexia in primary-aged children include:

Reading

• slow or hesitant reading

• difficulty sounding out unfamiliar words

• avoiding reading aloud

• difficulty recognising common words automatically

• reading that lacks fluency

Spelling and Writing

• persistent spelling errors

• spelling the same word differently each time

• messy or laboured handwriting

• difficulty copying from the board

• written work taking longer than expected

Memory and Organisation

• difficulty remembering sequences such as the alphabet, days of the week or times tables

• difficulty following several instructions at once

• problems recalling recently learned information

Language and Communication

• difficulty finding the right word when speaking

• mispronouncing longer or unfamiliar words

• needing extra time to answer questions

Other Signs

Some children may also:

• have low confidence with reading and writing

• appear tired or frustrated by written work

• show stronger understanding when information is spoken rather than written

It is important to remember that many children show some of these signs at times. However, when difficulties persist and begin to affect learning, a specialist dyslexia assessment may help identify the underlying learning profile.

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WordWise Dyslexia Services provides specialist dyslexia assessments for children across Kent and East Sussex, including Hawkhurst, Rye, Battle, Bexhill, Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas.

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The checklist information above is adapted from guidance produced by the British Dyslexia Association.