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4.29.19
While students with both AD/HD and Dyslexia frequently experience reading/writing challenges, it is important for teachers to understand the root of each student's difficulty so that he or she can provide appropriate accommodations.
Thanks to The International Dyslexia Association for putting together the article "Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) and Dyslexia". The writing does a wonderful job outlining differences and similarities of challenges faced by students with dyslexia and AD/HD. Below is my stab at summary.
AD/HD & Dyslexia are distinct conditions that frequently overlap.
AD/HD , or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, affects 3-5% of the school population and is characterized by inattention, distractibility, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Approx. 30% of students with dyslexia also have AD/HD.
“After puberty, about 40-50% of children with AD/HD will improve & develop enough coping skills so that their symptoms no longer have a negative impact on their quality of life...” (p. 3)
Dyslexia is a languaged-based learning disability. Its prominent characterizations include difficulties w/word recognition, spelling, decoding, and phonemic discrimination.
Diagnosing AD/HD & Dyslexia
“There are currently no biologic tests routinely available that allow an objective diagnosis of dyslexia or AD/HD.” (p.2)
An AD/HD evaluation can be performed by a physician or psychologist. The evaluation may include medical/family history, a physical exam, interviews w/parent & child, behavior ratings by parents/teachers, observations of child, and psychological tests (for intellect potential, social/emotional adjustment, learning disabilities).
- There are three subtypes of AD/HD: predominately inattentive, predominately hyperactive, and a combination of inattentive/hyperactive
- AD/HD is often under-diagnosed in girls & gifted children
Dyslexia can be diagnosed by a psychoeducational evaluation.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) and Dyslexia, The International Dyslexia Association. (2008).
IDA Fact Sheet: http://www.ortonacademy.org/cms/uploads/adhd-and-dyslexia-ida-fact-sheet-2008.pdf
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