What is Dyslexia?IN BRIEF
Dyslexia makes reading more difficult. Words are more complex to recognize and decode for dyslexic individuals, which slows down their reading and complicates text comprehension. This has no connection to intelligence. Although dyslexia persists throughout life, adapted tools and strategies can greatly facilitate reading and writing.
Definition of Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a learning difference that primarily affects reading. Dyslexic individuals may also experience difficulties with spelling and writing. It becomes more difficult to recognize, decode, and understand words, which affects reading speed and comprehension. This condition is linked to how the brain processes information.
Prevalence
Symptoms of Dyslexia
- Slow reading
- Confusion between certain sounds
- Confusion between certain terms
- Hesitation in reading and/or writing
- Difficulty understanding texts
- More frequent spelling mistakes
Attention
Dyslexia has no connection to intelligence; dyslexic individuals can be highly intelligent, but they learn to read differently. Dyslexia does not disappear over time, but learning strategies and adapted tools can greatly help dyslexic individuals improve their reading and writing skills.
La dyslexie ne disparaît pas avec le temps, mais des stratégies d’apprentissage et des outils adaptés peuvent grandement aider les personnes dyslexiques à améliorer leurs compétences en lecture et en écriture.
Fait amusant
Dyslexic individuals are said to be particularly effective at: building a business, understanding three-dimensional elements, working as graphic designers, and using their imagination!
Dyslexia and Autism
Link Between Dyslexia and Autism
Dyslexia and autism are both considered cognitive differences. They influence thought processes, including learning, comprehension, memory, and problem-solving. Dyslexia is primarily associated with difficulties in learning written language, and autism, on the other hand, can affect communication, social interactions, and behavior. Autism and dyslexia may share certain cognitive challenges, but they are distinct conditions with their own characteristics and support needs. However, since autism affects communication, it can also slow down the acquisition of written communication skills. Autism can therefore amplify the challenges related to dyslexia, and dyslexia can, in turn, have the same effect on autism.
Important
Dyslexia is not caused by parents, a lack of stimulation, or a weak desire to learn. It is hereditary.
How to Support an Autistic and Dyslexic Individual
The approach to supporting an autistic and dyslexic individual often needs to be adapted. Autistic individuals process information and communicate differently from non-autistic people. Therefore, traditional teaching and intervention methods for dyslexia might not be entirely effective or appropriate for autistic individuals.
Global Reading Method
Given the frequent ability of autistic individuals to use visual discrimination, the global reading method can be particularly effective. This involves associating words and sentences with images. However, if the person is comfortable with syllables, it is preferable to continue in that direction, as it offers more flexibility for future learning.
Fully Adapted Intervention Plan
The assessment and intervention plan cannot focus solely on dyslexia without considering other challenges. Even in cases where autism does not seem to pose an obstacle to learning, it is essential to consider it, as it can affect the effectiveness of the proposed tools. Solutions must be adapted to take into account the unique characteristics of each individual, emphasizing teaching methods that are both respectful and effective for their specific needs.
Considering Sensory Challenges
It is essential to consider sensory challenges. For example, if the person has auditory hypersensitivity, a quiet and peaceful space will be necessary. If someone is hypersensitive to light, it is important to ensure that learning can occur without the autistic person being dazzled by sunlight. This may seem obvious, but autistic individuals do not always signal sensory discomfort, which can significantly hinder learning, especially when it already presents a challenge, as in the case of dyslexia.
Assisted Reading Applications
Some applications allow text formatting adjustments, such as font size, spacing between letters and lines, and background color. These adjustments can help reduce visual and cognitive strain for dyslexic and autistic individuals. Indeed, sometimes an overly stimulating visual environment can amplify challenges related to dyslexia, particularly in autistic individuals.
Text Tracking Tools
Tools like reading rulers or line markers can help readers follow the text more easily, reducing confusion and improving focus. The reading ruler can help isolate the text and reduce sensory overload, which can be particularly useful for autistic individuals.
Text-to-Speech Software
These programs can read written text aloud, allowing individuals to access written content without needing to visually decode the text. For an autistic person, it may be particularly important to find a voice that is non-aggressive and pleasant, along with a comfortable headset they feel at ease wearing.
Autism-Specific Applications
Some applications are specifically designed for autistic individuals and can also support dyslexia. Nevertheless, most dyslexia tools are effective for autistic individuals, provided their unique needs are considered.
Routines and Rituals
Autistic individuals respond very positively to routines and rituals. A reserved reading period in their schedule can help an autistic person be more receptive to learning. If they use pictograms, do not hesitate to include the book pictogram.
References (French)
Autismeinfoservice.fr – Autisme et apprentissage de la lecture : nos conseils
Academie-neurodiversite.com – Neurodiversité: la dyslexie
Cenop – Dyslexie-dysorthographie
Dyslexia Canada – Notions de base sur la dyslexie
TA @ l’école – Dyslexie et potentialités : lorsque les capacités se déploient
