Unfortunately there is no definitive understanding of what causes dyslexia, a severe reading disorder. In spite of numerous studies and theories, the underlying causes are unknown and remediation can be a hit and miss process. A recent article in the New York Times on 8/2/11 (Study Says Dyslexia May have Auditory Tie) described a research project at MIT which found that dyslexics had much much difficulty recognizing voices than non-dyslexics. The difference was so great that a problem in this area could be used as a diagnostic tool.
While this study is interesting, the link between weak auditory discrimination and dyslexia is well known and in fact one of the first clues may be trouble rhyming - the child just doesn’t hear the sounds. Early intervention is crucial because auditory discrimination can be improved and children can be taught to read by other methods if they can’t latch onto the sound/symbol relationship.
If you think your child may have a problem, early assessment by a speech/language therapist, learning disabilities specialist or psychologist is critical. If you live in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Riverdale, Westchester, or New Jersey, I can help you by meeting your child and hooking you up with some of the most highly regarded and experienced local practitioners. Call me at 646-300-1881 or toby(at)parentconfidante.com for information about my consulting services.
