What is dyslexia?

The word dyslexia is derived from the Greek "dys" (meaning poor or inadequate) and "lexis" (words or language). The original meaning of dyslexia was coined by Dr. Rudolph Berlin of Stuttgart, in the late 1800's - that 'dyslexia' was a specific difficulty in the interpretation of symbols.

Dyslexia is a neurologically based specific learning difficulty, which ranges from subtle to severe. It's a difficulty in one or more of these areas of language: speaking, listening, reading, spelling, and writing. Dyslexia occurs at all levels of intelligence: sub-average, average, above average, and gifted. An unexpected gap exists between child's potential for learning and his school achievement.

Dyslexia,

• is not the result of a brain injury or sensory impairment
• is not a disease
• is not the result of low intelligence, inadequate instructional or environmental opportunities
• is not behavioral, psychological, motivational, or social problem

One useful resource is the Dyslexia Parents Link which provides a range of helpful techniques which parents can use with their dyslexic child. Dyslexia Paresnts Link: http://www.dyslexia-parent.com/india.html