Most people learn to read without much trouble, but some have a tough time. These problems usually start when you are learning to read, but they can continue as you grow older. You might find it hard to recognise sounds in language, break words into sounds, or even recognise letters or words. These difficulties do not mean you are not smart or not trying hard in school. It is common to experience difficulties with reading. These difficulties also do not happen because of any physical disabilities or emotional problems. These things can make reading harder, but they are not the cause. They can be a result of learning disabilities, language processing issues and environmental influences.
What is typical?
Learning to read doesn’t happen all at once. You build your reading skills little by little over the years. Each new thing you learn helps you get ready to learn more.
Typical reading skills include:
- Reciting the alphabet
- Recognising letters
- Matching letters to sounds
- Recognising familiar words
- Reading more complex stories
When should I be concerned?
Many people have trouble reading at some point but there are signs in young children that might show a bigger problem. These signs can be different based on your age. If you are not sure what to look for, ask a trusted adult or teacher for help.
When you were first learning to read:
- Talking later than other children: You might have started speaking later than your peers.
- Trouble with rhymes: You may have found it hard to play rhyming games or remember nursery rhymes.
- Following directions: You often had trouble following simple instructions from adults.
- Reading short words: You struggled with reading short words and sometimes repeated or missed them.
- Left-right confusion: You had difficulty telling left from right.
When you are in school:
- Reading words: You have a hard time reading new words and sounding them out .
- Spelling and writing: You struggle with spelling common words, taking notes or copying from the board.
- Reading comprehension: You find it difficult to understand the main idea or details of a story.
- Slow reading: You read slowly compared to your classmates.
- Avoiding reading aloud: You avoid reading out loud in class because you feel embarrassed.
- Feeling tired from reading: You get tired easily when reading and put in a lot of effort.
When you are outside school:
- Understanding signs: You have trouble understanding advertisements and signs.
- Learning game rules: You find it hard to learn and remember rules for games.
- Following multi-step directions: You struggle to remember and follow directions which include multiple steps.
- Reading clocks: You have difficulty reading clocks or telling time.
- Learning new languages: You find it very hard to learn a new language.
- Frustration with reading: You get upset when you cannot read something and may have emotional outbursts.
- Sequencing events: You have trouble putting events in order or retelling stories.
What can I do if I struggle?
Dealing with reading difficulties can be hard and frustrating. Here are some things you might try to make it easier, with the help of a trusted adult and a teacher:
- Ask for help from a trusted adult. Let a parent, caregiver, teacher, or another responsible adult know about your reading difficulties. They can assist you and help get more support.
- Practice decoding words. Regular practice breaking down words into more manageable parts with flashcards or reading easy texts out loud can improve your ability.
- Use other tools. Audiobooks, typing on a computer, or using apps can assist with reading and decoding.
- Break tasks into smaller parts. This makes big assignments less overwhelming.
- Give yourself enough time and take breaks. Tasks that involve reading may take longer, so plan for extra time and take small breaks.
- Remove distractions. Turn off TVs, games, and phones to focus better.
- Engage in activities you are good at. Join a sports team, play music, or try any activity you enjoy. Doing things you are good at can boost your confidence.
What kind of professional support can I seek out?
It is normal to feel bad about reading difficulties, as many people struggle with them, but help is available. If you struggle with reading for weeks, ask a trusted adult or teacher for help. They can guide you to get an evaluation from a professional.
There are several types of professionals in schools that may be able to help, including special education teachers, educational specialists, and speech-language therapists. These professionals, especially those who have experience with learners who learn differently, can provide effective support.
Public services are also available at your local clinic.
When looking for affordable services, it may also be helpful to explore local non-governmental organisations which offer services to families.
Local universities may offer services to the public as part of professional training programmes.
Where to find more information
If you need additional help or information, talk to a trusted adult (like a caregiver, teacher or mentor), a counsellor, or a health professional.
Reach out, stay connected, and ask for help.
Remember that effective treatments for all mental health problems are available, and you may need to talk to a number of different people before you get the help that you need.