Reading and writing difficulties (LRS / dyslexia) – when reading and writing become a challenge
What is Dyslexia?
Reading and writing difficulties – also known as dyslexia – are a specific learning disorder that significantly impedes learning to read and/or write. It occurs regardless of intelligence, motivation, or educational background and often becomes apparent in the early years of school.
Typical signs of dyslexia can be:
– Slow, halting or incorrect reading
– Difficulty in recognizing and combining letters
– Problems writing words despite frequent practice
– Swapping or omitting letters and syllables
– Large discrepancy between oral and written performance
– High number of errors in dictations despite preparation
– Avoidance of reading or writing situations, school frustration
Why is early diagnosis important?
Untreated dyslexia can lead to long-term academic failure, reduced self-esteem, and psychosocial stress. Many children experience setbacks in their daily school life, despite trying hard. Their potential is often unrecognized or mistakenly interpreted as a lack of effort.
A thorough diagnosis provides clarity here: It helps to distinguish between an actual reading and spelling disorder and temporary difficulties – and creates the basis for targeted, child-friendly support.
For whom is dyslexia diagnostics useful?
Diagnosis may be indicated in the following cases:
– persistent reading or spelling problems despite practice
– if teachers indicate possible partial learning difficulties
– if the child is under great emotional stress due to poor grades in German
– if compensation for disadvantages or school support is necessary
– in case of repeated school failure in the written language area
Diagnostic Procedure
The diagnosis of a reading and writing disorder takes place in several steps and is based on scientifically recognized criteria (e.g. ICD-11 / S3 guidelines).
- Initial consultation:
In a non-binding preliminary consultation, we discuss the child’s development to date, school observations, and family experiences. The goal is to gain a comprehensive picture of the situation and clarify individual questions.
- Medical history and questionnaires:
Parents receive a medical history form to gather information about the child’s school and family background. Teacher questionnaires or previous school records can also be included, if necessary.
- Test diagnostics:
The testing is carried out using standardized and normed procedures to record:
– Reading accuracy and reading speed
– Reading comprehension
– Spelling performance (e.g. dictations, copying tasks, free texts)
– possibly accompanying concentration and perception functions
The test usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and is carried out in a quiet, child-friendly atmosphere.
- Evaluation and discussion of findings:
After a careful evaluation of the results, a detailed final discussion with the parents takes place. Upon request, a written psychological report is prepared that clearly summarizes the test results and includes recommendations for school, support, and, if necessary, therapeutic measures.
What happens after the diagnosis?
The diagnosis of dyslexia can open many doors – for example:
– Individual support: Special dyslexia therapies or targeted learning programs can help to train written language systematically and stress-free.
– School support: If the diagnosis is recognized, measures such as compensation for disadvantages (e.g. more time, no assessment of spelling) or emergency protection can be applied for.
– Psychological relief: The diagnosis makes it clear that the child is not “lazy” or “incapable,” but needs other learning paths – this strengthens self-esteem and motivation.
Important: Dyslexia isn’t a matter of intelligence or diligence. Children with dyslexia often have normal or even above-average cognitive abilities—they simply need special learning strategies and patience.
If you suspect that your child is affected, we will be happy to advise you and clarify in an initial consultation whether a diagnosis is appropriate.
Get in touch with us!
Do you have any questions or would you like to schedule an appointment? We’re happy to advise you personally and are available at any time. Our team looks forward to hearing from you – you can reach us via the following contact options:
Call: +49 176 80548189
E-Mail: diagnostik@necipyurddas.com