What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and / or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction.

Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.

This definition was adopted by the IDA Board of Directors on Nov 12, 2002 and is included in Chapter 14 of Title 6A of the New Jersey Administrative Code.

Click to learn more about the Early Warning Signs of Dyslexia.

Brain imaging research has revealed anatomical and functional differences in typically developing readers and in children and adults with dyslexia.

Image from the Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity (www.dyslexia.yale.edu)

Click to learn more about Dyslexia and the Brain.