top of page
What is Dyslexia?
Heading 6

What is Dyslexia?

The Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity defines dyslexia as "an unexpected difficulty in reading for an individual who has the intelligence to be a much better reader. It is most commonly due to a difficulty in phonological processing (the appreciation of the individual sounds of spoken language), which affects the ability of an individual to read and retrieve words with automaticity.

 

Dyslexia is highly prevalent, affecting 20% of the population and representing 80-90% of all learning disabilities. While those with dyslexia are often slow readers, they are often very fast and creative thinkers with excellent reasoning skills." 

https://www.dyslexia.yale.edu/dyslexia/signs-of-dyslexia/

What is the Orton Gillingham Approach?

 

The Orton-Gillingham approach is a structured, multi-sensory method for teaching reading, writing, and spelling, especially designed for students with dyslexia. It breaks down the English language into clear, logical parts and teaches them in a step-by-step way. Lessons involve sight, sound, movement, and touch to help students understand and remember concepts. It’s highly individualized, meaning instruction is tailored to each student’s pace and needs.

​

The approach was developed in the 1930s by neuropsychiatrist Dr. Samuel Orton and educator/psychologist Anna Gillingham.

Dr. Orton was one of the first to study reading difficulties as a neurological issue, particularly what we now recognize as dyslexia. He emphasized the need for a structured and multisensory way to teach language. Anna Gillingham, building on his work, created a systematic method for teaching reading and spelling. She combined Orton’s theories with her own deep understanding of language to create a comprehensive instructional approach that remains the foundation for many evidence-based reading programs today.​

​​

​

​

​

  • International Dyslexia Association (IDA)
    https://dyslexiaida.org
    Offers research-based information on dyslexia, structured literacy, and advocacy.

  • Understood.org
    https://www.understood.org
    Provides clear, parent-friendly information about learning and attention differences, including dyslexia.

  • Decoding Dyslexia (State Chapters)
    https://www.decodingdyslexia.net
    A grassroots movement supporting families and advocating for children with dyslexia across the U.S.

​

Recommended books for helping children understand dyslexia 

 

Thank You, Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco

A beautifully illustrated, autobiographical story about a girl who struggles with reading until a teacher recognizes her dyslexia and helps her succeed.
(Ages 5–10)

 

It’s Called Dyslexia by Jennifer Moore-Mallinos

Explains what dyslexia is in simple terms and reassures kids that they are capable learners with unique strengths.
 (Ages 5–9)

​

Knees: The Mixed-Up World of a Boy with Dyslexia by Vanita Oelschlager

Told from the perspective of a boy with dyslexia, this book uses humor and honesty to explain what it feels like to struggle with reading.
(Ages 6–10)

​

Back to Front and Upside Down! by Claire Alexander

A gentle story that shows how writing can feel overwhelming for some kids, and the power of asking for help.
(Ages 4–8)

 

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt 

Though not a picture book, this middle-grade novel is often read aloud or in parts to younger students. It features a girl with undiagnosed dyslexia and the teacher who helps her see her true potential.
(Ages 9+ or younger with support)

​

The Alphabet War: A Story About Dyslexia by Diane Burton Robb

Follows a boy from kindergarten through third grade as he struggles with reading and finds success through the right help.
(Ages 5–9)

​

Tom's Special Talent by Kate Gaynor

Part of a series on learning differences, this book highlights how everyone learns in different ways and that differences should be celebrated.

​(Ages 4-8)

Suggested Reading

Websites
bottom of page