Students in Dubai at ‘high risk’ of dyslexia

Dubai: More than half of the 475 primary and secondary pupils screened by Lexicon Reading Centre in schools across Dubai were diagnosed as being at ‘high risk’ of dyslexia.

The results were released following Lexicon’s recent campaign offering free screening sessions in 15 schools in Dubai.

The results showed that more than 65 per centper cent of those screened were at ‘high risk’ of dyslexia, 17 per cent were at mild-to-moderate risk, whilst 18 per cent did not show signs of Dyslexia. People with dyslexia, a genetic condition, have problems with writing, speech, concentration and organisation.

The diagnosis of ‘high risk’ suggests that students generally struggle with spelling, reading and comprehending tasks given to them at school.

Dr Steve Chinn, a specialist from the UK who was present at the screenings in Dubai, discussed the importance of detecting early signs of dyslexia and identifying suitable help that is needed.

“Identification of dyslexia is usually via a psychologist,” said Dr Chinn. “It will rarely be medical, though a doctor may well refer the child to a psychologist. There are some classic warning signs such as slow development of reading skills and letter recognition, poor and often unusual spelling, or difficulty in remembering too many instructions at one time.”

Malcolm Litten, also a specialist from the UK, added that children who have been diagnosed as being at ‘high risk’ of dyslexia are often vulnerable to other issues ranging from depression to bad behaviour. He further highlighted how emotional support from parents and teachers plays a vital role.

He said: “Parents often have to tread carefully, being advocates for their children through diplomatic skills. In the process of doing so, sometimes parents are dismissed as ‘fussy’ or ‘over-protective’. Support at home and finding activities where the child can shine and enjoy are very helpful.”

Rudolf Stockling, the Head of the assessment unit for Lexicon Reading Centre, said the screenings were an important step in identifying and detecting the signs of dyslexia.

He said: “The groups we screened were very receptive and responded well. The screenings have helped raise awareness of dyslexia and dysgraphia, and the results have further proved how crucial intervention is for children with learning difficulties.”

Professor Nancy Cushen-White, the Centre’s Literacy Intervention Consultant and Case Manager, also emphasised the importance of trained teachers to help manage students showing signs of learning difficulties.

“In a survey I carried out, I asked what methods would be most helpful to identify cases amongst students at high risk of dyslexia. The respondents unanimously agreed that schools need trained teachers. Our Centre works towards holding vital workshops for teachers and parents to educate them and help in supporting the students’ needs.”