High Risk Dyslexia Test? Next Steps for Parents
Receiving a high-risk result from a dyslexia screening can feel overwhelming. A wave of questions and concerns might flood your mind, leaving you anxious about your child's future. But take a deep breath. This result is not a final destination; it is a starting point—a powerful tool that can illuminate the path forward. What do I do after a dyslexia test shows a high risk? This guide is designed to transform that anxiety into a clear, actionable plan, empowering you with the knowledge to communicate effectively with teachers and specialists and unlock your child's true potential. The first step you've taken by seeking information is the most important one.
Understanding Your Child's Dyslexia Screening Results
A screening report indicating a high risk for dyslexia is your first major clue. It identifies patterns in your child's learning profile that are consistent with dyslexia. This is invaluable information. Instead of a vague sense that something is wrong, you now have a specific area to focus on, allowing you to seek targeted, effective support. Remember, this moment is one of clarification, not crisis. You are now equipped to advocate for your child in a more informed way.
Interpreting a "High Risk" Dyslexia Screening Report
Think of a dyslexia screening as a smoke detector. It’s a highly sensitive tool designed to alert you to the potential presence of a fire. It doesn't tell you the size or source of the fire, but it signals that you need to investigate further. A "high-risk" result from a dyslexia screening report means that your child has shown several key indicators associated with dyslexia.
This could include challenges with:
- Phonological Awareness: Difficulty hearing and manipulating sounds in words.
- Decoding: Struggling to connect letters to their corresponding sounds to read words.
- Spelling: Frequent and inconsistent spelling errors.
- Reading Fluency: Reading slowly or haltingly.
This result is a strong signal to take the next steps. It provides the data you need to start meaningful conversations with your child's educators.
Screening vs. Diagnosis: Why the Distinction Matters
It is critically important to understand the difference between a screening and a diagnosis. This distinction is at the heart of responsible and ethical support. Our online screening is an accessible, evidence-based tool to identify potential risk. It is an educational first step, not a medical conclusion.
A formal evaluation, on the other hand, is a comprehensive assessment conducted by a qualified professional, such as an educational psychologist, clinical psychologist, or neuropsychologist. This diagnostic process involves a battery of standardized tests that assess various cognitive and academic skills. Only a formal evaluation can provide an official dyslexia diagnosis. Our role is to provide a reliable, free starting point that helps you decide if pursuing a formal evaluation is the right next step. Taking our online dyslexia test gives you the clarity to move forward.
Preparing to Talk to Your Child's Teacher About Dyslexia
Your child’s teacher is your most important ally. Approaching this conversation as a collaborative partnership is the key to success. You are both invested in your child's well-being and academic progress. By combining your insights from home with the teacher's observations from the classroom, you can build a complete picture of your child's needs. This teamwork is fundamental to creating an effective support system.
Gathering Observations and Evidence of Learning Difficulties
Before you schedule a meeting, gather specific information. This will help you have a productive, evidence-based conversation. Concrete examples are far more powerful than general concerns. Your goal is to illustrate the patterns you're seeing that point to learning difficulties.
Compile a folder with:
- The Screening Report: Print the results from your dyslexia screener to share.
- Work Samples: Collect homework assignments or tests that show specific struggles, such as reversed letters, poor spelling, or difficulty with written expression.
- Your Observations: Note how long homework takes, your child's attitude towards reading (avoidance, frustration), and any specific phrases they use, like "the words are moving."
- Strengths: Also note your child's strengths! Are they creative, a great problem-solver, or verbally articulate? Dyslexia is not related to intelligence, and highlighting their talents is crucial.
Crafting Your Conversation: Key Points to Discuss with School Staff
When you meet for a parent-teacher conference, frame the conversation positively and proactively. You are not there to blame, but to partner. Start by expressing appreciation for the teacher's work and then clearly state your purpose.
Here are some key points and questions to guide your discussion:
- Share Your Findings: "We recently used an online dyslexia screening that indicated a high risk, and I wanted to share the report with you and hear your thoughts."
- Ask for Classroom Observations: "What have you observed regarding my child's reading, writing, and spelling in the classroom?"
- Discuss Support Systems: "What kind of in-class support or interventions are available for students who struggle with reading?"
- Inquire About School-Based Assessment: "What is the process at this school for requesting a formal evaluation for a learning disability?"
- Plan Next Steps Together: "Can we agree on an action plan for the next few weeks? This might include some specific strategies to try at home and in class."
Consulting with a Doctor or Specialist: Your Child's Next Steps
While the school is a critical partner, the journey to a formal diagnosis often involves professionals outside the school system. This is one of the most important dyslexia next steps for parents. A formal diagnosis can unlock access to specialized instruction, accommodations (like extra time on tests), and assistive technologies that can level the playing field for your child. It provides an official framework for the support they need to thrive.
Finding the Right Professional for a Formal Dyslexia Assessment
Knowing who to turn to can be confusing. The professionals qualified to conduct a professional assessment and diagnose dyslexia typically include:
- Educational Psychologists: They specialize in understanding how children learn and can provide detailed educational evaluations.
- Clinical Psychologists/Neuropsychologists: These specialists can assess for dyslexia as well as other co-occurring conditions like ADHD.
- Certified Dyslexia Specialists: Some reading specialists and educational therapists have advanced certification in dyslexia assessment.
You can find these professionals by asking your pediatrician for a referral, contacting your school's guidance counselor, or reaching out to reputable organizations like the International Dyslexia Association for a list of providers in your area.
What to Expect During a Professional Dyslexia Evaluation
A comprehensive evaluation is nothing to be afraid of. It is not a single test but a series of engaging activities designed to understand your child's unique cognitive profile—their strengths and weaknesses. The process usually takes several hours, often broken into multiple sessions.
The evaluator will assess areas such as:
- Cognitive ability (IQ)
- Oral language skills
- Phonological processing
- Word recognition and decoding
- Reading fluency and comprehension
- Spelling and written expression
The final report will provide a detailed analysis and, if applicable, a formal diagnosis. Most importantly, it will include specific, individualized recommendations for home and school to support your child's learning. This report becomes the blueprint for their success.
Empowering Your Child's Reading Journey: Taking the Next Step with Confidence
Receiving a high-risk dyslexia screening result is the beginning of a new, empowered chapter. You have moved from uncertainty to action. By understanding the report, collaborating with your child's school, and seeking professional guidance, you are building a powerful network of support. This journey will unlock your child's reading potential and reinforce their self-worth.
Your advocacy and support are the keys to their success. If you are just starting this journey or have questions about your child's reading, the first step is to gain clarity. Take a free screening on our website to get the professional insights you need to move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions After a High-Risk Dyslexia Screening
How accurate is an online dyslexia screening test?
A well-designed online dyslexia screening is a highly accurate tool for identifying risk. While it cannot provide a formal diagnosis, it effectively flags the key indicators associated with dyslexia, based on established research. Think of it as a reliable, scientifically-backed first step to determine if a full evaluation is warranted.
Can my child's school provide a formal dyslexia diagnosis?
This varies significantly depending on your location and school district's policies. Some public schools have the staff (like an educational psychologist) to conduct a full evaluation that can lead to a diagnosis. In other cases, the school will provide academic support and interventions but will recommend an outside specialist for the formal diagnosis. The best first step is always to ask the school directly about their process.
What information should I prepare before seeing a specialist?
To make the most of your appointment, bring the folder you prepared for the teacher. This should include your child's online screening results, school report cards, samples of their work, and a list of your specific observations and concerns. Also, include any relevant medical or developmental history. This comprehensive information gives the specialist a rich context for their evaluation.
What is the typical cost of a formal dyslexia assessment?
The cost of a private, formal assessment can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the professional and your location. It's a significant investment. This is why a free, professional tool to assess reading skills is so valuable—it helps you confirm that this is a necessary and worthwhile step before you incur any costs. Always inquire about potential coverage from health insurance or lower-cost options through university clinics.