FOR PARENTS AND ADULTS
Support at every age.
What to do next if you think your child, or you, may have dyslexia.
Seven steps to take
- Write down the signs you see, with dates.
- Meet the teacher and ask about screening and reading help.
- Do not wait for your child to catch up.
- Ask the principal for a board assessment, and what help is available meanwhile.
- Consider a private assessment if the wait is long.
- Tell your child it is not their fault.
- Seek mental health support if stress builds.
Questions to ask the school
- Do you screen early reading? When?
- What reading help is available now?
- What supports will my child get while we wait?
- How will results be shared?
Getting an assessment
In most of Canada, a licensed psychologist diagnoses dyslexia through a psychoeducational assessment. In Quebec, a psychologist or a speech-language pathologist can. A private assessment for a child costs about $1,200 to $4,000.
Schools should give help without waiting for a diagnosis.
Source: Dyslexia Canada, single source01
Find help in Canada
Dyslexia Canada
National charity with plain-language information, screening guidance and advocacy for families and adults.
Fraser Academy
British Columbia
Independent school in Vancouver for students in grades 1 to 12 with dyslexia, with Orton-Gillingham teacher training.
IDA Ontario
Ontario
Ontario branch of the International Dyslexia Association, with reports, events and local guidance.
Learning Disabilities Association of Canada
Find your provincial Learning Disabilities Association for local programs, assessments guidance and support.
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Free tools and guides for schools, employers and families. Dyslexia Ready by Skills Council of Canada.
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