My child was just diagnosed with dyslexia. Now what?

Finding out your child has dyslexia lets you move forward. Having a diagnosis gives you concrete information about your child’s strengths and challenges. And it helps you get the right type of support to meet your child’s needs.

Now that you know what’s causing your child’s difficulties, you may wonder what to do. Explore these steps to take when you find out your child has dyslexia.

1. Ask questions.

You likely have questions about what having dyslexia means for your child. Reach out to the people who have answers. That includes your child’s teacher and health care provider. You can also get answers to these common dyslexia questions from parents and caregivers.

2. Talk with your child.

It can be a relief to kids to know there’s a reason for their challenges and things that can help. Help your child understand dyslexia and talk openly about it at home. Let your child know that dyslexia is nothing to be ashamed about, and that it doesn’t mean your child isn’t smart.

3. Know what comes next at school.

If your child was evaluated by the school, the school will develop a plan called an IEP to provide support for your child. Learn how the IEP process works.

If your child was evaluated privately and you want a free school evaluation, find out how to request one. And learn how to work with the school to use results from a private evaluation.

4. Discover what helps kids with dyslexia.

There are many ways to help kids with reading challenges. Learn about multisensory instruction and how it can help kids with dyslexia with reading. And explore strategies you can try at home.

5. Connect with other families.

Other parents and caregivers of kids with dyslexia can be a great source of support. They get it in a way that friends and family may not.

6. Recognize strengths.

It’s natural to focus on challenges after you get a diagnosis. But be sure to celebrate strengths and accomplishments, too.

7. Share dyslexia success stories.

Dyslexia doesn’t go away. But there are so many people with dyslexia who are thriving in life. Share their stories and help your child see beyond the challenges.