However, having a name for the learning struggles is a huge relief, and clarity always lights the way for the best path forward. We have yet to meet a parent or child who has regretted getting a formal diagnosis of dyslexia. A diagnosis of dyslexia helps a person understand that the reading difficulties are due to a brain difference, not lack of intelligence. Dyslexia tests that target reading comprehension are usually interested in either literal comprehension, inferential comprehension, or both. Literal comprehension is a reader’s understanding of the events and information in a text.

In fact, according to the National Institute of Health , reading disabilities can be diagnosed as early as age 5 1/2, or the last half of kindergarten. A school evaluation focuses on determining if a child qualifies for an IEP under an IDEA disability category. A private neuropsychological evaluation can be sought to provide a diagnosis which is different from the IDEA disability categories. Measuring these requires a variety of educational, psychometric and psychological tests. This is why it is important for an assessor to be conversant with technical terms and broader developments in the field.

Evaluation Process for Dyslexia

Note that many health insurance companies do not cover the diagnostic testing. However, funds from a Health Savings Account may be used in some cases. If you can not afford to have your child officially diagnosed, but strongly suspect dyslexia due to family history and many signs and symptoms, consider putting your available financial resources towards helping your child. A diagnosis is helpful, but not required to work on your child’s difficulties. 讀寫障礙評估 is to provide guidance to educators, students, families, and community members about dyslexia, and the best practices for identification, intervention, and support for students with dyslexia.

Dyslexia and special education eligibility

The student who puts odd letter combinations together, such as kpz, does not have a strong sense of English orthography. The first and second steps in Figure 1 pertain to demonstrating evidence of low achievement in reading. In thinking about Sam, Monica and the eligibility team would first consider data specific to Sam’s reading performance that were collected as part of the prereferral (i.e., RTI) process.

Good evaluators will also schedule a face-to-face meeting to discuss the results. Some people may fear that a diagnostic label could create or exacerbate stigma. This is understandable, given the widespread misunderstandings about dyslexia in our culture.

Finally psychology offices need to worry about compliance with all regulations in their jurisdiction. This can include practice-related reporting, taxes, and professional licensing fees. While these all vary widely by location, in many cases the costs add up quickly.