Common Myths about Dyslexia

Even today, there are still many persistent myths about dyslexia. As a teacher, I encounter false beliefs about dyslexia regularly from parents and educators alike.

Five Common Myths

Myth #1: Dyslexia is when people see letters backwards.
Truth: People with dyslexia do not see things backwards. Dyslexia is not a vision problem. Individuals may have reversals in letters and numbers or say words backwards (saw for was) but this is due to confusion about directionality.

Myth #2: People with dyslexia can't read.
Truth: People with dyslexia can read, but their reading may be very slow and/or inaccurate. With specialized reading instruction, people with dyslexia can learn to read and spell at a higher level and with more accuracy and fluency.

Myth #3: Dyslexia is rare.
Truth: Most schools do not test for dyslexia, but just because they don't test for it doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Current data from the National Institute of Health reports that 20% of the population in the United States is affected by dyslexia. That is 1 in 5 people.

Myth #4: More boys have dyslexia than girls.
Truth: Statistically dyslexia affects the same amount of boys as it does girls. Boys may be identified more often or sooner because they stand out more due to behaviors, while girls act quieter, more calm.

Myth 5: If a child has dyslexia, they will eventually "catch up".
Truth: Research shows that students who struggle to read, write, or spell in the mid-late 1st grade have a 90% chance of continuing to struggle with those skills throughout their education and even into adulthood.