SEN Consultancy Services

Getting an accurate dyslexia and/or dyscalculia diagnosis will allow the child to receive the appropriate support and information they need to excel in and out of the classroom. This is massively beneficial for removing the stress that may be associated with learning as well as showing a child that they are intelligent, they just don’t learn in the same way as others. This can dramatically increase their confidence in all areas of their life.

Assessments must take place in a quiet and private location that is free from distractions. Assessments usually take approximately 3 hours to complete and are carried out by a qualified assessor. During an assessment, the assessor will carry out multiple tests, such as reading writing and spelling ability, handwriting and fine motor skills, speech and language processing and exploration of number sense and attainment in maths. The specific tests vary depending on the individual and the concerns that have been raised.

A dyslexia assessment is used to confirm whether an individual has dyslexia and/or dyscalculia, provide information on their individual cognitive profile, and decide what support they need. It is carried out by a qualified assessor who will then produce a report with a diagnosis.

Dyscalculia symptoms can look different depending on the age and developmental stage of an individual. Common symptoms of dyscalculia include:

• Difficulties understanding some mathematical concepts
• Difficulties with sequencing and pattern spotting
• Struggling with short term, working and long term memory
• Problems understanding mathematical language and word problems
• Difficulties with automatic retrieval of information such as times tables
• Needing to use strategies such as finger counting
• Slow processing and information retrieval
• Unable to explain what they are doing
• Maths anxiety

Though dyslexia can occasionally be diagnosed at an early age, it usually becomes more obvious when a child starts school and begins focusing on how to read and write.

Symptoms of dyslexia in children aged 5 to 12 years include:

• Problems learning the names and sounds of letters
• Inconsistent spelling
• Confusing letters that look similar and putting letters the wrong way round (such as writing “p” instead of “d”)
• Confusing the order of letters in words
• Answering questions well orally, but struggling to write an answer down
• Struggling to carry out directions or learn sequences such as days of the week
• Slow writing speed
• Poor handwriting
• Poor phonological awareness

Dyscalculia is a learning difficulty that makes it difficult to understand and learn mathematic concepts. People who have dyscalculia may need to learn maths in a different way, for example, learning concepts more slowly or reviewing their learning more often.

Dyslexia is a common learning difficulty that normally affects reading and writing skills. It can also impact information processing, meaning some individuals may struggle with understanding and remembering information.