What is Dyslexia?
There are many misconceptions about dyslexia. So, before we dive into what dyslexia is, let’s start with a quick overview of what it isn’t.
Dyslexia is NOT…
1. Dyslexia is NOT a vision problem.
2. Dyslexia is NOT seeing letters backward.
3. Dyslexia is NOT caused by a lack of motivation or desire to learn.
4. Dyslexia is NOT laziness.
5. Dyslexia is NOT caused by a lack of books in the home.
6. Dyslexia is NOT an issue of intelligence.
7. Dyslexia is NOT outgrown.
8. Dyslexia is NOT rare.
Now, for what Dyslexia is …
The most recognized, widely-accepted definition of dyslexia was updated and adopted by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) in 2025:
“Dyslexia is a specific learning disability characterized by difficulties in word reading and/or spelling that involve accuracy, speed, or both and vary depending on the orthography. These difficulties occur along a continuum of severity and persist even with instruction that is effective for the individual’s peers. The causes of dyslexia are complex and involve combinations of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental influences that interact throughout development. Underlying difficulties with phonological and morphological processing are common but not universal, and early oral language weaknesses often foreshadow literacy challenges. Secondary consequences include reading comprehension problems and reduced reading and writing experience that can impede growth in language, knowledge, written expression, and overall academic achievement. Psychological well-being and employment opportunities also may be affected. Although identification and targeted instruction are important at any age, language and literacy support before and during the early years of education is particularly effective.”
The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) also uses IDA’s definition of dyslexia.
How widespread is dyslexia?
About 5% of the school population nationwide has a learning disability in reading that qualifies them for special education. Many more people—as many as 20% of the population as a whole—have some of the symptoms of dyslexia, including slow or inaccurate reading, poor spelling, poor writing, or mixing up similar words. Even though they may not qualify for special education, they still struggle with many aspects of academic learning.
What are the signs of dyslexia?
The signs of dyslexia can appear as early as preschool. The Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity has a list of signs a parent can look for from the preschool years through high school, and that adults can reference for themselves. The “Signs of Dyslexia” list is pulled from the book, “Overcoming Dyslexia” by Sally Shaywitz. You can also visit our Early Warning Signs page.
Educators play an essential role in recognizing and supporting students with dyslexia. However, many educators have had limited opportunities for comprehensive training about dyslexia, including how to recognize its characteristics and provide effective reading instruction for students who struggle to learn to read. Continued professional learning and access to evidence-based resources can help educators identify student needs earlier and provide appropriate instructional support.
Dyslexia affects individuals across all socioeconomic, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds. Increasing educator knowledge and awareness is an important part of ensuring that students with dyslexia are recognized, understood, and supported in school.