When children are young, Dyslexia and attention deficits or hyperactivity can look similar. A child who is struggling with learning may have trouble paying attention, avoid work, be restless, and even be defiant when asked to do a task that is difficult for them. For some kids, these challenging behaviors go away when they get help with reading, but for others, it indicates a dual diagnosis of Dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD.

ADHD and Dyslexia can occur together, but they do not cause each other. Dyslexia is a language-based learning difference, while ADHD changes the ability to focus, sometimes coupled with hyperactivity. The NIH estimates that 20% of the population has Dyslexia. The rates of ADHD have been increasing, in 2011, 11% of children had been diagnosed with ADHD. Given how common each of these conditions is, it makes sense that a portion of students will have both Dyslexia and ADHD.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a condition that impacts how people behave. It influences attention and concentration. A person with ADHD has a pattern of inattention or the ability to maintain focus on a task, being hyperactive or overly restless, and impulsivity. These behaviors change the person’s functioning and development. It’s easy to see how ADHD traits would impact a child in a school setting where they are expected to sit still, focus on a task for an extended period, and wait until they participate.

Diagnosing Dyslexia and ADHD

Dyslexia and ADHD may be diagnosed together.

Most children with ADHD are diagnosed around age 6. Moreover, kids struggling to learn to read will start the evaluation process for Dyslexia in first or second grade.

If a child is demonstrating behaviors that are consistent with ADHD, as well as reading deficits consistent with Dyslexia, it’s essential to assess the child for both conditions. Basically, the child will receive an educational-psychological evaluation, as well as a screener for ADHD. The results can determine the present conditions and how to support the child best.

What if my Child has Dyslexia and ADHD?

Dyslexia and ADHD are two diagnoses that help you understand why your child is struggling. They are also conditions your child will have to manage throughout their life, but they do not limit your child’s ultimate potential. Here are five ways to address a dual diagnosis.

💡 Focus on strengths

As you review the information, look for your child’s strengths. What do they do well? How do they process information? How do they engage with the world in unique ways? Use these strengths to help your child define their successes and address challenges.

🚫 But don’t ignore challenges

Identify the areas that your child needs support in and focus on those. If you can, seek out tutoring to address dyslexia. If your child’s doctor recommends medication for ADHD, you can consider that. And, with your child’s school, create a plan to support them as they learn how to learn.

🙂 Recognize the challenges that come with both Dyslexia and ADHD

Both Dyslexia and ADHD present challenges with processing information. Your child may have issues with working memory, naming speed, and motor skills. This will impact how your child engages with, learns, and responds to information. Make sure your child’s IEP or 504 plan provides accommodations to address your child’s unique challenges.

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🗣️ Engage with your child

Be mindful of how you talk to your child. Your child probably already feels different from their peers, so ignoring Dyslexia or ADHD isn’t helpful. Talk to your child in terms they can understand, help them name what frustrates them, and help them identify their strengths.

🧠 Keep the end in mind

When Dyslexia and ADHD are diagnosed early, children are more likely to learn strategies to help them address challenges while maintaining a positive self-image. A dual diagnosis is not the only factor in your child’s life. Their education, support from family and friends, and the skills they learn all impact their lives and what it means to be them.

Connect with families who have children with Dyslexia and ADHD at #LexicMinds.

Key Takeaways

• It is essential to understand the distinct characteristics of Dyslexia and ADHD and how they can manifest together in children.
• A recommendation is to explore a balanced approach that acknowledges and builds on your child’s strengths while addressing challenges posed by both conditions.

Points of Action

1. Explore mindfulness techniques with your child to enhance focus and self-awareness, complementing traditional ADHD management strategies.
2. Incorporate cutting-edge assistive technologies, such as AI-reading apps or virtual reality learning tools, to support reading comprehension and engagement.
3. Encourage your child to explore creative venues like art, music, or storytelling, which can nurture strengths and provide alternative ways to express thoughts and ideas.
4. Try structured routines and interactive games that promote organization, time management, and decision-making skills crucial for academic and personal success.

My Child was Diagnosed with Dyslexia… Now What?

Written by: Samantha Cleaver

Samantha Cleaver, PhD, has more than 15 years of expertise in reading disabilities, including Dyslexia. She has taught students with Dyslexia in elementary and middle school and has worked as a school-level director of special education.