What is dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a learning difference that can affect reading, spelling, writing, sequencing and the ability to work accurately with words. People with dyslexia are often bright, creative and capable, but they may need a different way of learning.

What are the common signs of dyslexia?

Common signs include slow or inaccurate reading, letter recognition, guessing at words, inconsistent spelling, difficulty remembering written words, losing one’s place and avoiding reading. A person does not need to show every sign.

Can a bright child have dyslexia?

Yes. Dyslexia is not connected to intelligence. Many children with dyslexia understand complex ideas and solve problems well even though reading and spelling are difficult.

Does dyslexia affect more than reading?

Yes. Dyslexia may also affect spelling, writing, organization, sequencing, time, direction, attention and confidence. Every person experiences it differently.

Is dyslexia a learning disability?

Dyslexia is commonly recognized as a specific learning disability or learning difference. The language used can vary, but dyslexia does not mean that a person lacks intelligence. potential, or the ability to learn.

Is dyslexia hereditary?

Dyslexia often runs in families. A child may be more likely to have dyslexia when a parent or close relative has experienced similar difficulties with reading, spelling or written language.

Can adults have dyslexia?

Yes. Dyslexia is lifelong, although adults often develop ways to work around their difficulties. Adults can still learn new strategies and improve reading, writing, organization and confidence. 

Can dyslexia affect self-esteem?

Yes. Repeated struggles at school or work can make capable people believe they are not intelligent. Understanding the reason for the difficulty and finding an approach that fits can help rebuild confidence.

Why does my child guess at words?

A child may guess when the printed word is not recognized quickly or when reading feels confusing. They may use the first letter, the picture or the meaning of the sentence instead of reading the complete word.

Why does my child confuse small words?

Small words such as the, of, was, and from can be hard because they do not always create a clear mental picture. A learner may recognize them sometimes and miss them at other times.

Recognizing Learning Difficulties

How do I know if my child has dyslexia?

Possible signs include persistent difficulty with reading, spelling, sound-symbol relationships, remembering words and reading fluently. A formal assessment can identify dyslexia, while a consultation can help you explore suitable learning support. The Davis Method recognizes dyslexia as a thinking and learning difference— a diagnosis is not necessary to do a Davis Program. 

Why does my child avoid reading?

Avoidance is often a response to frustration, confusion, fatigue or fear of making mistakes. It may be a sign that reading takes much more effort than other people realize.

Why can my child read a word once but not recognize it later?

Recognizing a word once does not always mean it has become stable and automatic. Stress, confusion, attention and the way the word was learned can all affect later recognition.

Why does my child lose their place while reading?

Losing one’s place can be connected to visual tracking, attention, disorientation or difficulty keeping a steady point of focus. It can interrupt comprehension and make reading exhausting.

Why does my child understand stories but struggle to read them?

Listening comprehension and reading ability are different skills. A child may understand advanced ideas when listening but struggle to decode, recognize or follow printed words.

Why is spelling so difficult for my child?

Spelling requires a learner to remember the order and form of letters, connect sounds with symbols and recall word patterns. Dyslexia can make those processes inconsistent even when the person understands the word.

Why does my child reverse letters and numbers?

Reversals can occur while children are learning, but persistent reversals may reflect difficulty with orientation, direction or symbol recognition. Reversals alone do not prove that a child has dyslexia.

Why does homework take my child so long?

Reading instructions, organizing materials, maintaining attention and writing answers may each require extra effort. The combined load can make a short assignment take much longer than expected.

Why does my child struggle to follow instructions?

The child may have difficulty holding several steps in mind, understanding sequence, maintaining attention or processing language quickly. Short instructions with one step at a time may be easier to follow.

Should I wait to see if my child catches up in school?

If difficulties are persistent or affecting confidence, it is worth seeking help early. You do not need to wait for a child to fail before asking questions and exploring support.

Getting Help

What kind of help is available for dyslexia?

Support may include school accommodations, structured reading instruction, tutoring, assistive technology, assessment and specialized programs such as the Davis Method. The best choice depends on the learner’s needs, age and goals.

How can I find dyslexia help near me?

Look for a qualified professional who works specifically with dyslexia and can clearly explain the approach, time commitment, cost and follow-up. Lynn Chigounis is a Licensed Davis Facilitator providing individualized, one-to-one support for children and adults in Montclair, New Jersey.

How is dyslexia support different from regular tutoring?

Tutoring usually helps a student practice school subjects or catch up on lessons. Specialized dyslexia support addresses the underlying learning difficulties and teaches tools the learner can continue using independently.

Can dyslexia be corrected?

Dyslexia is a lifelong learning difference, but its difficulties can be reduced significantly. With effective tools and practice, many people become more accurate, independent and confident readers.

Is it ever too late to get help for dyslexia?

No. Children, teenagers and adults can all learn new ways to manage dyslexia. The goals and program may differ by age, but meaningful progress is possible at any stage.

How can I help my child become a confident reader?

Begin by recognizing effort and protecting the child’s confidence. Use material at a comfortable level, read together without pressure and choose support that addresses the reason reading is difficult.

How quickly can someone improve their reading?

Progress varies with the person, the nature of the difficulty, the program and the practice completed afterward. An intensive program can introduce tools quickly, but lasting improvement requires continued use and follow-up.

Can adults improve their reading and spelling?

Yes. Adults can build stronger reading and spelling skills by learning strategies that fit the way they think and by practising them with meaningful material.

What should I look for in a dyslexia program?

Look for appropriate training, an individualized plan, clear goals, realistic expectations, follow-up support and an approach that respects the learner’s strengths. Ask how progress will be supported after the program ends.

Davis Programs

What is the Davis Mastery  for Dyslexia Program?

The Davis Mastery for Dyslexia Program is an individualized approach for people with dyslexia. It teaches tools for focus and self-regulation and uses meaning-based, hands-on learning to strengthen reading and language skills.

How is the Davis Method different from tutoring?

The Davis Method is not traditional subject tutoring. It helps the learner understand and manage the experiences that interfere with learning, then builds mastery through active, meaning-based work.

Who can benefit from a Davis program?

Davis programs may help children, teens and adults who experience difficulties with reading, spelling, attention, math or everyday concepts. A consultation is used to decide whether the approach is a suitable match.

What happens during a Davis program?

The facilitator works one-to-one with the learner to establish goals, teach focus and self-regulation tools and build mastery in the areas causing difficulty. Activities are adapted to the learner rather than delivered as a standard classroom lesson. All programs include hands-on, experiential learning.

How long does a Davis Program take?

The exact timed schedule can vary depending on the specific needs of the individual and the specific Davis program. The typical Davis Dyslexia program is commonly delivered as an intensive week of about 30 hours. 

Does the Davis Method use phonics?

The Davis Method is meaning-based and is not a traditional phonics program. Work with letters, sounds and words may be included, but the approach emphasizes mastery, understanding and the learner’s way of thinking.

What tools will the student learn?

Tools vary by program and may support focus, calm, accurate perception, reading, word mastery and independent problem-solving. The learner practises how and when to use the tools in everyday situations.

What happens after the intensive program?

The learner continues practising the new tools at home with agreed support. Follow-up sessions help review progress, solve difficulties and strengthen independent use.

Can Davis programs help with attention and focus?

Yes, Davis programs include tools intended to support awareness, focus and self-regulation. Results vary, and the program does not replace medical care or an ADHD assessment when those are needed. There is a Davis Mastery for Attention Program that addresses issues related to ADHD and Executive Functioning skills.

Other Learning Challenges

Can dyslexia affect mathematics?

Yes. Dyslexia may affect remembering symbols, reading word problems, sequencing steps, recalling facts or understanding time, sequence, and order. Some people are strong mathematical thinkers but still struggle with written calculations.

What is Davis Math Mastery?

Davis Math Mastery is an individualized, hands-on program that develops understanding of the concepts beneath mathematics. It helps learners connect mathematical symbols and procedures with real meaning.

Can you help with ADHD and attention difficulties?

Programs can teach practical tools for awareness, attention, self-regulation and understanding everyday concepts; such as cause/effect, time, sequence, and order. They are educational programs and do not diagnose ADHD or replace advice from a regulated healthcare professional.

Can the Davis Method help with handwriting?

The Davis approach may support handwriting by helping a learner develop clearer letter formation, orientation, sequencing and control. Suitability depends on the person’s needs and goals.

Can you help with organization and time management?

Yes. Concepts such as time, sequence, order, change and responsibility can be explored in a concrete way. The aim is to help the person understand these ideas and use them more independently in daily life.

Practical Questions

How much does a Davis program cost?

The cost depends on the program, the learner’s needs, the schedule and the follow-up required. Contact Lynn for current details and an individualized recommendation.

Do you work with both children and adults?

Lynn works with both children and adults. The program and schedule are selected around the learner’s age, needs, goals and readiness.

Do you offer a free consultation?

Yes. Lynn offers a free 15-minute discovery call to discuss the learner’s difficulties, strengths and goals. Call (973) 746-5037 or email Lynn@DyslexiaNJ.com to arrange a conversation.

How do I know which program is right for my child or me?

The right program depends on the person’s main difficulties, goals, age and readiness. A consultation helps us understand the situation, answer your questions and recommend an appropriate next step.

Still wondering which kind of support would be the best fit? Contact Lynn Chigounis to discuss the individual’s strengths, challenges, and goals.  Call (973) 746-5037, or email Lynn@DyslexiaNJ.com to request a free 15-minute discovery call.