Delays in learning to speak clearly or developing vocabulary.
Difficulty recognizing or producing rhyming words.
Persistent trouble with pronouncing longer or complex words.
Difficulty following multi-step directions.
Early Elementary (Ages 6–8)
Trouble connecting letters to their sounds (e.g., struggling with “b” makes the sound /b/).
Reading errors, such as guessing based on the shape of a word rather than decoding it.
Slow, labor-intensive reading (reading word by word).
Difficulty spelling simple, familiar words.
Complaints about reading being hard or avoiding it altogether.
Struggles to sound out unfamiliar words.
Difficulty learning common sight words (e.g., “the,” “and,” “was”).
Frustration with or avoiding reading tasks.
Late Elementary (Ages 9–12)
Slow or choppy reading with frequent pauses.
Difficulty understanding what was read despite being able to decode words.
Trouble with spelling, often spelling the same word differently in a single piece of writing.
Reliance on memorization rather than understanding spelling patterns or rules.
Avoidance of reading aloud or completing written assignments.
Poor handwriting compared to peers (often messy or inconsistent).
Difficulty organizing thoughts on paper, leading to brief or incomplete writing.
Teenagers and Adolescents (Ages 13+)
Reading remains slow and effortful.
Difficulty understanding idioms, jokes, or sarcasm.
Struggles with writing essays, organizing ideas, and completing written assignments.
Poor spelling persists, often with inconsistent spelling errors.
Difficulty learning a foreign language.
Avoidance of reading for pleasure or study.
Low self-esteem or frustration related to academic performance.
Additional Warning Signs Across Ages
Trouble remembering sequences (e.g., days of the week, the alphabet).
Difficulty learning the names of colors, numbers, or shapes.
Family history of reading or learning difficulties.
Trouble with time management or staying organized in schoolwork.
Avoidance of tasks requiring reading or writing.
What to Do If You Notice Warning Signs
If your child exhibits several of these warning signs, it’s a good idea to consult with their teacher, a reading specialist, or an educational psychologist. Early identification and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for children with dyslexia.