Struggling Readers & Dyslexia: Why Early Intervention Matters and How Parents Can Help
- WizTherapy
- May 26
- 3 min read
Updated: May 26
Guest post by Elizabeth McGaughran, M.Ed., LDT, CALT, C-SLDS
Director, Lightworks Learning Center
Schedule a FREE consultation here.
Reading Challenges Often Begin Early - So Should Support
Every parent hopes their child will become an enthusiastic reader. But reading is not something our brains are naturally wired to do - it’s a skill that must be explicitly taught.
When a child shows signs of difficulty - avoiding books, stumbling over words, or becoming frustrated with reading tasks - it could be more than just a phase. For many, it’s an early indication of a reading difference such as dyslexia. And the earlier we intervene, the better the outcome. Early intervention for Dyslexia and other learning differences is key.
What Does Early Reading Intervention Involve?
Early intervention means identifying potential reading struggles as soon as they appear - often in preschool or early elementary school - and taking action right away.
Support may include:
Working with a reading specialist or certified dyslexia therapist
Using a structured literacy approach (e.g., Orton-Gillingham)
Requesting assessments to determine if a learning difference like dyslexia is present
When support is timely and targeted, children can build the skills they need before gaps widen.
Understanding Dyslexia: A Common but Misunderstood Challenge
Dyslexia is a neurological difference that affects reading, spelling, and sometimes writing. It has nothing to do with intelligence or effort.
Children with dyslexia may:
Struggle to match letters with sounds
Have difficulty decoding unfamiliar words
Spell inconsistently
Avoid reading aloud
With the right, evidence-based instruction, children with dyslexia can learn to read and thrive academically.
Why Timing Matters
1. Young Brains Are Especially Adaptable
Early childhood is a critical time for language development. The brain is more flexible, making it easier to create the neural pathways needed for reading.
2. Waiting Can Widen the Gap
Delaying support in hopes that a child will “catch up” can allow small struggles to grow into larger ones. Research shows that first graders who don’t receive support often continue to fall behind in later grades.
3. Avoiding the Downward Spiral
Left unaddressed, reading difficulties can erode self-esteem. Children may begin to avoid books entirely, leading to anxiety and frustration. The right intervention can interrupt that cycle and build confidence.
4. Confidence Unlocks Motivation
The moment a struggling reader starts to experience success can be transformational. Motivation improves, and with it, progress accelerates - especially when instruction is personalized and evidence-based.
Signs of a Reading Difficulty or Dyslexia
If you notice any of these, consider seeking support:
Difficulty learning or recalling letter names and sounds
Challenges blending sounds to form words
Guessing at words instead of decoding
Avoiding reading aloud or reading unusually slowly
Inconsistent or mostly phonetic spelling
Family history of reading struggles or dyslexia
What Parents Can Do
🗣 Talk to Your Child’s Teacher
Share your concerns and ask about a reading evaluation.
📝 Seek a Formal Assessment
You can request testing through your school or privately through a licensed evaluator.
📚 Choose Evidence-Based Instruction
Look for programs based on structured literacy, including Orton-Gillingham and multisensory approaches.
📖 Keep Reading at Home
Read aloud together regularly. This builds vocabulary and nurtures a love of language - even if your child isn’t reading on their own yet.
💛 Encourage Effort, Not Perfection
A child’s mindset about reading can shape their long-term success. Celebrate small wins and steady effort.
Final Thoughts
Reading struggles can feel overwhelming, but with early, targeted support, children can build essential skills - and rediscover the joy of reading.
At WizTherapy, we help families connect with experienced specialists like Elizabeth, who use evidence-based strategies to support reading development and dyslexia.
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