How to request a dyslexia assessment for children and adults?
There are various ways to request a dyslexia test for children, although it can sometimes be a frustrating process particularly for parents. The first step is to meet the child’s teacher and the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCo) to discuss the concerns and any support that may have been tried already.
If the child continues to have difficulties despite having additional support, ask for him/her to be referred for a dyslexia assessment by the local authority, or obtain a private dyslexia assessment with a specialist teacher in order to gain a full diagnostic report with recommendations for the school.
It takes considerable courage for adults to request a dyslexia assessment because the person is fully aware of their difficulties and the thought of having them highlighted could be daunting and nerve-racking. However, a diagnosis may provide a reason for underachievement at school and for his/her chosen career path. Consequently, for adults, it can be a huge relief to find an explanation for their reading and writing difficulties. As a result of a full diagnostic assessment, a workplace needs assessment may be requested to assess their requirements at work. Often the use of assistive technology is recommended and enables individuals to read and write more easily.
Online Dyslexia test
Dyslexia screening for children or adults can often be completed online and some may be free while others carry a small cost. The benefit of using these tools is that it is something that children/adults can do on their own without a specialist assessor to determine the likelihood of having a dyslexic profile. A screening report can help individuals to realise their strengths and weaknesses helping them better understand their difficulties.
Dyslexia diagnosis
The aim of the diagnostic assessment is to compare the student’s ability with reading and writing skills together with cognitive skills; to show whether the student has a specific learning difficulty present, for example dyslexia. Parents and teachers are an important source of information which will help to create the individual’s profile.
The dyslexia assessment will generally begin with a conversation with the individual and the parent/teacher. Previous reports/assessments will be requested to provide the relevant background information. A variety of test materials will be used to gain a detailed profile of the person’s strengths and weaknesses. This usually takes between 2-3 hours. A detailed report will follow and this will include recommendations for teaching staff/employers as well as support in exams, for example extra time, reader, etc (if appropriate). If the diagnosis makes the student eligible for the Disabled Students’ Allowance at university, the report can be used as evidence of his/her disability.
Access Success Clips
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Famous Dyslexics
A small selection of quotes from some famous dyslexics, to read the full quotes, please click the button below.
About Alyson and Access Success
I am a specialist teacher and assessor recognised by the Professional Association of Students with Specific Learning Difficulties (PATOSS) and the British Dyslexia Association.
Access Success aims to provide discreet and efficient assessment for specific learning difficulties including dyslexia. Covering the south west area throughout Somerset and Devon, Alyson is always on hand to help. If you would like more information or an informal chat about your requirements or for those of a child then please contact Alyson here.
All information discussed will be treated as private and confidential.