Understanding Dyslexia-Related Learning Difficulties
Many parents tell us a similar story. Their child is bright and curious, enjoys conversations, and seems to understand lessons when explained verbally. Yet when it comes to reading, spelling, or writing, the struggle becomes obvious. Homework takes longer than it should. Written answers do not reflect what the child knows.
Over time, some children begin to avoid reading altogether, while others give up quickly when asked to read or write. These challenges may reflect traits commonly associated with dyslexia, which affect how written language—including reading, writing, and spelling—is processed and expressed in academic settings. Such traits can be present even when a child is intelligent, motivated, and putting in significant effort.
Strengths Often Observed
- Fluent conversation
- Good listening comprehension
Difficulties Often Observed
- Reading struggle
- Writing struggle
- Spelling struggle
IN THE CLASSROOM
What Dyslexia-Related Learning Difficulties Look Like in School
Reading Challenges
Reading may be slow or inconsistent, with children losing their place or forgetting words previously learned
Writing Difficulties
Writing may appear untidy, with spacing issues, inconsistent capital letters, and difficulty organising ideas.
Spelling Struggles
Spelling can be hard to retain, even after repeated practice and effort.
These difficulties can also affect Mathematics word problems or Science questions due to the heavy reliance on written language. Over time, repeated struggles may lead to frustration, reduced confidence, and avoidance of schoolwork.
Not About Intelligence or Effort
Children with dyslexia-related learning difficulties often put in significant effort yet continue to struggle. Many understand concepts verbally and show strong reasoning skills, but face challenges in processing written language
When effort does not lead to improvement, children may feel discouraged despite tryingtheir best. These challenges are not a reflection of intelligence or motivation. With appropriate learning-focused support, many children can cope more effectively with school demands.
IMPORTANT INSIGHT
Why Tuition or Phonics Alone May Not Be Enough
Traditional Tuition
Focuses on content repetition
Phonics Programs
Teaches sound-letter relationships
The Gap
May not address how written language is processed
Tuition and phonics programmes can help some children, but may not address how written language is processed and applied. Children with dyslexia-related traits may struggle to retain or transfer skills across contexts, even with repeated practice.
In such cases, additional drilling can increase frustration without resolving underlying difficulties.
How Learning Intervention Supports Children
At Cognitive, we support children who show dyslexia-related learning difficulties through learning intervention, focusing on how language-based information is processed and applied in school, rather than relying solely on repetition or content drilling.
Strengthening Literacy Skills
We focus on building foundational reading, writing, and spelling abilities through targeted strategies that address how children process written language.
Teaching Learning Strategies
Children learn practical techniques to approach academic tasks more effectively, helping them become more independent learners.
Supporting Academic Demands
At upper primary levels, academic intervention continues alongside literacy support to help children cope with key milestones such as PSLE.
PARENT PARTNERSHIP
The Role of Parents and Home Support
Why Parent Involvement Matters
Parents play an important role in reinforcing learning strategies. The techniques and approaches introduced during intervention sessions are most effective when they extend beyond the classroom into daily life.
At Cognitive, we guide parents on how strategies introduced during sessions can be applied at home and in school, without completing homework for the child.
How We Support Parents
- Feedback provided after each session
- Practical guidance on home application
- Strategies for school collaboration
- Ongoing communication and support
This continuity helps children transfer skills across different contexts and reinforces their progress.
Who This Support Is Suitable For
Struggling with Reading, Writing, or Spelling
Children who find these foundational skills challenging despite regular practice and effort.
Poor Exam Performance Despite Tuition
Students who continue to perform poorly in exams even with additional tutoring support.
Guided by Learning Needs
Support is determined by individual learning needs and readiness rather than labels or formal diagnosis.
Learning intervention may be suitable for children showing these signs. Our approach focuses on understanding each child’s unique learning profile and providing targeted support that addresses their specific challenges
What Learning Intervention Does Not Replace
Clinical Diagnosis
Learning intervention does not provide formal diagnostic assessments or replace professional clinical evaluation.
Therapy Services
Our support complements but does not substitute for occupational therapy, speech therapy, or other clinical interventions.
Formal Schooling
Learning intervention works alongside regular school education, not as a replacement for classroom instruction.
Important: Learning intervention may work alongside other supports, depending on individual needs. We encourage a collaborative approach that includes parents, schools, and other professionals when appropriate.
Take the Next Step
Ready to Support Your Child?
If you are concerned about dyslexia-related learning difficulties, an initial consultation can help clarify your child’s needs and determine appropriate support.
During the consultation, we will:
- Discuss your child’s specific challenges
- Review their learning history and current performance
- Explain our intervention approach
- Determine if our support is suitable
- Answer your questions about the process
Supporting Children with Dyslexia
A Typical Support Journey
At Cognitive, we believe that with the right support, children with dyslexia-related learning difficulties can thrive academically. Our learning intervention approach focuses on how children learn, not just what they learn, helping them develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed.
Every child’s journey is unique, and we are committed to providing personalized support that addresses individual needs and builds lasting confidence in learning.
