If your teen is struggling in school, getting bad grades, and frustrated with their academic work, it may be time to examine dyslexia as a possible root cause. One of the most common symptoms of undiagnosed dyslexia is difficulty reading.
Dyslexia can cause learning problems, social issues, and major consequences later in adulthood if the signs are not recognised, treated, and supported. The good news is that it is never too late to help your child get on the path to success. With the right behaviour treatment program and counselling, you can find the assistance you need to diagnose and support your struggling teen. At Venture Academy, our team has the experience and knowledge to give your teen the tools to combat dyslexia.
What Is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a reading disability that can affect how words are perceived and written, which often leads to difficulty reading. People who struggle with dyslexia tend to have normal vision and test normally on intelligence-related scales, but they may struggle with writing and taking time-sensitive tests. The brain center that processes language is affected by this disorder. While it cannot be cured, there are many ways to support your teen with ADHD, including tutoring, emotional support, and counselling, as well as specialised education programs like those offered at Venture Academy.
Risk Factors of Dyslexia
Certain risk factors may contribute to causing dyslexia. These include exposure to infection, alcohol, or nicotine in utero during fetus development or a genetic link with dyslexia or a different learning disability. There is also an increased likelihood that a teen may have ADHD if they have dyslexia. This can make sustained attention even more difficult and contributes to impulsive or unpredictable behaviour.
Recognise the Symptoms of Dyslexia
Difficulties with communication can exacerbate many of the symptoms of dyslexia. If dyslexia is not treated early, it can lead to behavioural problems, comprehension difficulties, or self-esteem issues. The impact of dyslexia can leave lasting struggles with economic, social, and academic adjustment abilities, including falling behind peers, withdrawing from social activities, and experiencing aggression or anxiety. There are many indicators that your teen may be struggling due to dyslexia, including the following reading comprehension and retention problems:
- Processing issues with visually or aurally collected information that may affect the understanding of jokes, idioms, or summarization of stories
- Mispronunciation of names or words or “losing” words
- Problems with memorization
- Messy handwriting and spelling issues due to the transposition of letters
- Labored or slow reading, whether on the page or aloud
- Difficulty reading or learning new languages
- Struggles with completing or understanding math problems or finishing tests in the allotted time period
- Trouble remembering names, phone numbers, or dates
- Slow response time in conversations or experiencing trouble when asked to retrieve information in the classroom
If you notice some of these symptoms in your teen, it may be time to consider intervening on their behalf. It may feel difficult to know where to start or how to offer help, but there are many intervention resources available with Venture Academy by your side.
Give Your Teen with Dyslexia the Chance to Succeed
It can be disheartening to watch your teen struggle, but it is possible to obtain the treatment they need to succeed. With Venture Academy’s 30-day assessment and intervention program and behaviour treatment, your teen can learn the right tools tailored to their learning and communication styles so that you can get back to working together as a family with less worry.
If you are still feeling unsure, take our interactive child behaviour test 866.762.2211. It only takes about five minutes of your time and may assist you in your evaluation process as you consider the best steps to take in helping your teen grow into their most productive self.
