How Should I Tell My Child They Have Dyslexia (or a Speech/ Language Disorder)?

As a parent, receiving a diagnosis of dyslexia or a speech/language disorder for your child can be a lot to process. It’s normal to feel mixed emotions or have a lot of questions. After receiving a diagnosis, many parents wonder how to approach the task of explaining the diagnosis to their school-aged child. Read on for some things to keep in mind when you have this conversation.

Your child is probably aware of their difficulties, and your support is important to them.

Although children differ in how they express their awareness, by the time they reach school-age they are likely aware of their communication differences. Children with speech or verbal language disorders may experience frustration when they are not understood. A child with dyslexia may have noticed that school seems harder for them compared to peers or may express a dislike for reading and writing. Social communication challenges may result in a child feeling left out or different. 

You can help your child feel supported by acknowledging that you understand the things that have been hard for them and you’re on their team. 

The diagnosis may come as a relief.

Understanding the reason for challenges you face can be a freeing experience. To some degree, children with speech and language disorders may feel like their difficulties are a personal shortcoming. Knowing that their dyslexia is not related to intelligence but rather a difference in the way their brain processes sounds and symbols, or understanding the reason behind their speech disorder, can take the blame off of them. Diagnoses also come with a treatment plan, which is a path forward.

Knowledge of the diagnosis may help your child take ownership of the treatment process.

Speech and language therapy is a team event. Outcomes are best when the child, family, and therapist are on the same page and work together to achieve goals. Including your child in the diagnosis and treatment planning process helps them understand what they are working toward and what they need to do to get there. 

Focus on future possibilities.

Up to 10% of the population has dealt with some type of speech or language disorder. Many people have overcome these challenges to achieve social, academic, and professional success. To encourage acceptance, it may be fun and helpful to research famous people diagnosed with speech and language disorders or dyslexia. Notable examples include musicians Ed Sheeran (stuttering) and John Lennon (dyslexia), and scientist Albert Einstein (documented signs of dyslexia)

Be quick to seek additional help when needed.

Just like you do, your child may have lots of questions about their diagnosis. At True Potential Education, it is our goal to provide every member of the team with reliable information and expert recommendations. If your child has a question you can’t answer, encourage them to ask their therapist or let them know that you will ask on their behalf. They are an equal part of the team!

As speech-language pathologists, we are trained to provide education and counseling regarding speech and language diagnoses and treatment recommendations. Some clients receive their diagnosis after a long period of academic and social difficulties, which may result in experiences with bullying, anxiety, or depression. If you have concerns like these regarding your child’s diagnosis, we strongly recommend seeking the help of a mental health professional.

Remember, a speech or language disorder diagnosis is not a roadblock—it is the beginning of the path to achievement. Our team of therapists and intervention specialists is here to support you as you support your child.

Have more questions? Give us a call at (515)218-8445.