When letters dance around you, how would you react in the moment? - how dyslexia in children is often mistaken for misbehaviour and often undiagnosed
NEURODIVERSITY
Medha Chadalavada
7/31/20261 min read
Dyslexia is an 8-letter word: D-Y-S-L-E-X-I-A. For many people, these letters come together effortlessly to create a familiar word. However, for children with dyslexia, those same eight letters can represent a much greater challenge. Not because the word itself is necessarily harder to spell, but because behind those letters lies a struggle that goes far beyond what meets the eye.
Why does dyslexia happen?
Dyslexia is influenced by two main factors: genetics and differences in brain development. It is a complex, polygenic condition, meaning that many genes work together to influence how the brain develops and processes language. Scientists have identified over 40 genes that may play a role in dyslexia, along with environmental factors that can also affect development. This is why dyslexia is not as simple as inheriting a single “dyslexia gene” — it develops through a combination of different influences.
Why is it harder for children to be diagnosed with dyslexia?
Parents and teachers frequently mistake children’s bad behaviour such as defying orders when the real cause may be an undiagnosed learning difference such as dyslexia. The emotional and mental challenges of dyslexia can often appear as frustration, avoidance, or difficulty focusing when it comes to learning content, leading to misunderstanding.
In the film Taare Zameen Par, where the protagonist Ishaan struggles with reading, writing, and schoolwork are initially seen as laziness and poor behaviour rather than signs of dyslexia.
His experience reflects the reality for many children, as around 5–10% of the population is estimated to have dyslexia, yet many cases remain undiagnosed or are identified only after years of difficulty.
With the right support, children with dyslexia can learn just as well as their peers if not better. By recognising the signs of dyslexia (Is my child dyslexic? - British Dyslexia Association) parents can replace this misunderstanding with the right support the child needs.