Articles

Understanding Dyslexia Screening at LDS

At the LDS, we offer a Dyslexia Screening to identify if a child is at risk for dyslexia. This is an essential first step in understanding your child’s learning challenges. However, it’s important to note that this is not a diagnosis or a full psychoeducational evaluation. Therefore, it does not provide the legal documentation needed for an Individual Education Plan (IEP). 

What is a Dyslexia Screening? 

A dyslexia screening is a brief, evidence-based tool that determines whether a child may be at risk for dyslexia. It identifies key areas of difficulty, such as phonemic awareness and decoding, which are common symptoms of dyslexia. Early identification allows for targeted interventions, helping children overcome reading challenges before they fall further behind. 

Why Screening Matters 

The achievement gap between typical readers and those with dyslexia begins as early as grade one. Screening early, combined with evidence-based interventions, can close this gap, giving your child the support they need to succeed. 

What a Screening Does Not Do

While helpful for identifying risks, this screening is not a diagnostic tool. A diagnosis requires a full psychoeducational assessment conducted by a licensed psychologist. The dyslexia screening at LDS is a valuable starting point to guide further steps and ensure early intervention. 

Next Steps

If the screening indicates a risk of dyslexia, you can pursue a full psychoeducational evaluation for a comprehensive diagnosis. Early intervention is key, and our screening can help provide the foundation for effective support and strategies both at school and at home. 

To book a psychoeducational assessment, you can join the waitlist at your child’s school or seek private practice options with a registered psychologist or school psychologist. A Google search for “psychoeducational assessment” in your area will provide private options. 

Early intervention is the best way to support and see progress for students at risk of dyslexia.

Sofia Lopez Nakashima, Senior Manager, Assessments

LDS is a community of dedicated professionals who write collaboratively. We recognize the contribution of unnamed team members for their wisdom and input.