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Test Your Knowledge: Can You Tell Dyslexia Facts from Myths?

  • Writer: Heidi Lee
    Heidi Lee
  • Nov 10
  • 4 min read

Dyslexia is one of the most misunderstood learning differences. Many myths can leave parents confused about what dyslexia really is, what it isn’t, and how best to support children who have it. Knowing the facts can help you support your child more effectively and confidently.



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Take this quick “True/False” quiz, then scroll down for research-backed answers and practical tips.


The Quiz: True or False?


  1. People with dyslexia see letters and words backwards.

  2. Dyslexia is a vision problem.

  3. Dyslexia only affects reading.

  4. Children can outgrow dyslexia with enough practice.

  5. Kids with dyslexia are lazy or just need to try harder.

  6. Dyslexia is rare.

  7. Dyslexia only happens in English.

  8. Dyslexia is caused by poor teaching or lack of reading at home.

  9. Dyslexia means low intelligence.

  10. Dyslexia can’t be diagnosed before third grade.



The Truth Behind Each Myth


If you answered “false” to each question above, you’re correct. These are the top 10 most common myths about dyslexia, but do you know why they are false? Now that you’ve tested your knowledge, let’s take a closer look at each myth. Misconceptions about dyslexia are surprisingly common, even among caring parents, teachers, and friends, and understanding the truth can make a real difference for your child.


Understanding the research behind these myths can help you support your child more effectively, spot early signs, and separate fact from fiction.


Let’s explore what the experts say about the top 10 most common dyslexia myths and how they apply in real life.


Myth 1: People with dyslexia see letters and words backwards. (False)


Research: Letter reversals (e.g., b/d, “was”/“saw”) are common in many beginning readers, both with and without dyslexia. The core difficulty in dyslexia is in phonological processing, not visual confusion.

“Reversals of letters and words are common in the early stages of learning to read and write among average and dyslexic children alike.” — University of Michigan Dyslexia Help


Parent Tip: Occasional letter reversals are normal. Watch for persistent difficulties with decoding, fluency, spelling, and comprehension despite quality instruction.




Myth 2: Dyslexia is a vision problem.” (False)


Research: Dyslexia is a language-based, neurobiological difference, not caused by eyesight. Brain imaging shows differences in areas responsible for processing language sounds, not visual pathways.


Parent Tip: Glasses alone won’t fix dyslexia. Support your child with structured, evidence-based reading instruction targeting phonics and decoding.



Myth 3: Dyslexia only affects reading. (False)


Research: According to the 2025 IDA definition, dyslexia affects word reading and spelling, accuracy, and/or speed, and can impact writing, reading comprehension, expressive language, and confidence.


Parent Tip: Effective support covers reading, spelling, writing, and comprehension and is not limited to practicing reading aloud.


Myth 4: Children can outgrow dyslexia. (False)


Research: Dyslexia is a lifelong difference, but with structured support and evidence-based strategies, children can build strong reading skills and thrive academically. Early intervention gives them the best chance to succeed and gain confidence.


Parent Tip: Early screening and structured literacy instruction are crucial. With proper support, children can read accurately and improve fluency, but the underlying difference persists.


Myth 5: Kids with dyslexia are lazy or just need to try harder. (False)


Research: Children with dyslexia often work harder than their peers, but brain-based differences make reading tasks more challenging.


Parent Tip: Instead of telling your child to “try harder,” focus on providing the right support. Use teaching methods and programs created for students with dyslexia, offer scaffolding and accommodations, and pair encouragement with recognition of their effort. This approach helps your child build skills and confidence at the same time.


Myth 6: Dyslexia is rare. (False)


Research: Dyslexia affects 10–20% of the population and accounts for 80–90% of reading disabilities.


Parent Tip: Dyslexia is common. Normalizing it reduces stigma and encourages earlier support.


Myth 7: Dyslexia only happens in English. (False)


Research: Dyslexia occurs across languages and writing systems. The neurological basis is the same, but how difficulties appear can vary.


Parent Tip: If your child is bilingual or multilingual, don’t assume struggles are “just the language.” Dyslexia may still be at play.


Myth 8: Dyslexia is caused by poor teaching or lack of reading at home. (False)


Research: Dyslexia is neurobiological and often inherited. Quality teaching and rich home literacy environments improve outcomes but do not cause dyslexia.


Parent Tip: Focus on effective instruction and accommodations, not blame.


Myth 9: Dyslexia means low intelligence. (False)


Research: There is no correlation between dyslexia and IQ. Bright, creative individuals can have dyslexia.


Parent Tip: A child can be smart and still have dyslexia. Celebrate strengths while supporting challenges.



Myth 10: Dyslexia can’t be diagnosed before third grade. (False)


Research: Early signs (family history, phonological awareness deficits, rapid naming delays) appear in preschool or kindergarten. Early diagnosis enables prompt, effective intervention.


Parent Tip: If you notice early warning signs, don’t wait. Screening and structured support in early grades give the best chance to stay on track.


Take Action Today


 Now that you know the truth behind common dyslexia myths, you can make a real difference for your child. Celebrate their strengths, focus on what they can do, and provide the right support to help them thrive.


If you feel your child needs extra support from a specialist, schedule a free consultation with me today.



About the Author

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Hi, I’m Heidi. I am a licensed Reading Specialist and a Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in education. Since 2022, I have been supporting children with dyslexia and spelling challenges both online and in person through private practice, working with students in grades 2–12 in the United States and with international school students around the world.

My goal is to make this journey less overwhelming and more empowering for families, helping children gain confidence and success in reading and spelling.


Connect with Heidi at Successfuldyslexiatutoring.com or on Linked in.




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