As parents, we want to give our children the best possible start in their reading journey. While every child develops at their own pace, understanding the early signs of dyslexia can help you provide timely support for your little one. Let’s explore what parents should watch for in the preschool years.
Understand Early Signs of Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a learning difference that affects how children process language and learn to read. Research shows that dyslexia often runs in families, and its signs can appear as early as preschool age. While many young children naturally struggle with some aspects of language development, persistent difficulties might indicate a need for additional support.
Common Indicators of Dyslexia to Watch For
Language Development
- Difficulty learning and remembering common nursery rhymes
- Persistent “baby talk” or mispronouncing familiar words
- Trouble recognizing rhyming patterns (like cat, hat, rat)
- Difficulty remembering the names of familiar objects, colors, or people
- Using vague words like “thing” or “stuff” instead of specific terms
Letter and Sound Recognition
- Struggles to learn and remember letter names
- Difficulty connecting letters with their sounds
- Cannot recognize letters in their own name
- Shows little interest in letters or printed words despite enjoying stories
Memory and Sequencing
- Trouble following multiple-step instructions
- Difficulty learning and remembering classroom routines
- Struggles with sequential tasks like stringing beads
- Problems keeping a simple rhythm or learning song sequences
Important Things to Remember
Early Signs Vary
Not every child with dyslexia will show all these signs, and some children without dyslexia might display some of these behaviors. What’s most important is the persistence and severity of the difficulties.
Focus on Strengths
Children with dyslexia often show remarkable strengths in other areas:
- Strong creativity and imagination
- Good problem-solving abilities
- Excellent comprehension when stories are read to them
- Strong conceptual understanding
- Advanced vocabulary when speaking
Early Intervention Matters
Identifying and addressing reading difficulties early can make a significant difference in a child’s educational journey. The brain’s natural plasticity in the early years makes this an ideal time for intervention.
What Parents Can Do
If you notice persistent signs that concern you:
Document Your Observations
- Keep track of specific difficulties your child experiences
- Record how long they’ve been present
Seek Professional Guidance
- Consult with your child’s pediatrician
- Discuss your concerns with their preschool teacher
- Consider meeting with a speech-language pathologist
- Connect with early childhood education specialists
Continue Supporting Language Development
- Read aloud daily with your child
- Play rhyming games and sing songs together
- Engage in conversations that build vocabulary
- Use multisensory approaches to letter learning
Support Your Dyslexic Child
Remember that identifying dyslexia early isn’t about labeling your child—it’s about understanding their learning needs and providing appropriate support. While formal diagnosis typically doesn’t occur until around age 7, recognizing early signs allows you to create a supportive learning environment that builds on your child’s strengths.
At Reading.com, we understand that every child’s reading journey is unique. Our evidence-based approach to early reading instruction incorporates multisensory learning and systematic skill building that can benefit all young learners, including those showing signs of dyslexia.
Want to support your preschooler’s reading development with proven strategies? Try the Reading.com app today for a 7-day free trial and access activities designed to build essential pre-reading skills.
Early awareness and support can make a significant difference in your child’s reading journey. Trust your instincts as a parent, seek professional guidance when needed, and continue fostering a love of learning in your young reader.