Coming to terms with your child’s dysorthographia diagnosis

Hearing a diagnosis of dysorthographia can bring mixed emotions: relief at finally having a name for the difficulties, worry about the future, guilt at not having noticed sooner. All of these reactions are normal. Here are some pointers for receiving this diagnosis and moving forward. Accepting the diagnosis takes time, and every family moves at its own pace.

A mix of emotions

Many parents first feel relief: their child’s difficulties now have an explanation, and it is neither laziness nor a lack of intelligence. The diagnosis brings an end to years of doubt and confusion.

Others feel sadness, worry or even denial. Some wonder whether the diagnosis is really accurate. These doubts are understandable, and you can discuss them with the speech and language therapist.

There is no right or wrong reaction. Take the time you need to acknowledge them. Both parents may also experience the news in different ways.

Guilt

Many parents feel guilty: “I should have spotted it sooner”, “I told him off for his spelling mistakes”. This feeling is common, but it is not justified. Teachers themselves do not always identify this disorder.

Dysorthographia is often hard to spot, and parents act on what they know at the time they know it. What matters is what you do for your child now.

The disorder is not caused by upbringing. It is largely of neurodevelopmental origin. See the causes.

Understanding the disorder

Finding out about dysorthographia helps you come to terms with it. Understanding what the disorder is, how it shows up and how it is managed is reassuring. The more you understand the disorder, the better you will be able to help your child.

Don’t hesitate to ask the speech and language therapist who carried out the assessment any questions you have. They can explain the assessment report and the next steps.

See what is dysorthographia. Be wary of unreliable sources that promise miracle solutions.

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What the diagnosis changes

The diagnosis opens doors: speech and language therapy, school adjustments, PAP or PPS plans, and better understanding from teachers. These supports help your child make progress in better conditions.

It also allows your child to understand their difficulties and stop thinking they are stupid. This is often a great relief for them too.

See what to do after the diagnosis. The diagnosis is the starting point for appropriate support.

What it does not change

Your child is still the same person. The diagnosis does not define who they are, or what they will be able to do later on. They have the same qualities, the same talents and the same dreams as before.

Dysorthographia does not affect intelligence. Many adults with dysorthographia have rich and fulfilling lives. The disorder does not prevent academic success or professional fulfilment.

See dysorthographia and careers. With good support, many doors remain open.

Talking to your child about it

Explaining the diagnosis to your child is important. Use simple words, stress that it is not their fault and that solutions exist. A child who understands their disorder often feels relieved.

Adapt what you say to their age, and let them ask their questions. Their questions may come back over time, at different ages.

See explaining dysorthographia to your child. Your attitude towards the diagnosis greatly influences theirs.

Not going it alone

Talking with other parents who are going through the same situation helps a great deal. Associations and parent groups are good sources of support. These exchanges also help you find practical advice.

If the news is hard to deal with, don’t hesitate to speak to a professional. Looking after yourself allows you to better support your child.

See associations and parents’ testimonies. Sharing experiences is reassuring and gives ideas.

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Questions that keep coming up

Is it normal to feel guilty after the diagnosis ?

Yes, it is common, but dysorthographia is not caused by upbringing and it is often hard to spot. The disorder is often difficult to identify, even for professionals.