ADHD and Dyslexia

A question we get asked by many parents is the difference and/or simalirities between ADHD and Dyslexia.  According to the International Dyslexia Association, about 30% of students with dyselxia have ADHD as well. Due to the fact that many characteristics overlap when it comes to academic skills, it can be challenging to figure out what is what!

A good rule of thumb is to work on getting ADHD under control first, whether  through accommodations, behavior supports, natural supplements, or medication.  Your pediatirican and/or a counslor can be great supports for diagnosing and putting a plan in place.  After that, if you are still seeing issues with reading, spelling, writing, then it may be time to see if there is a further underlying learning disability.

Common characteristics of ADHD and Dyslexia:

Diffculty with sustained attention during reading/writing tasks

– fatigue easily during reading/spelling/writing tasks

– avoidance of reading tasks and comprehension issues

– handwriting difficulties

-underachieveing in school even though bright and motivated

Differences in ADHD and Dyslexia

-Reading Fluency: dyslexia is characterized by inaccuracy in reading both large and small words; ADHD is characterized by skipping over words and punctuation along with difficulties in tracking print

-Writing: dyslexia is characterized by poor spelling, grammar, proofreading, and organization.  ADHD writers tend to have difficulty with oranization and proofreading.

To read more: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) and Dyslexia

Information from: International Dyslexia Assocation: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) and Dyslexia Fact Sheet