1in6 Support spoke with Carole Samango‑Sprouse, a clinical professor, researcher, and science director at The Focus Foundation about one of the most common yet misunderstood learning differences: dyslexia.
Dr. Samango‑Sprouse brings decades of clinical experience to the conversation, offering clarity, compassion, and practical guidance for families navigating reading challenges. Her insights help parents understand what dyslexia is, how to recognize it early, and what steps can make a meaningful difference in a child’s learning journey.
What Is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a reading‑based learning difference that affects how the brain processes written language. According to Dr. Samango‑Sprouse, it often shows up as difficulty with:
- Recognizing letters
- Connecting letters to sounds
- Rhyming
- Remembering words
- Reading fluency
Importantly, dyslexia has nothing to do with intelligence. Many children with dyslexia are bright, curious, and highly capable — they simply learn differently.
Early Signs Parents Can Look For
Dr. Samango‑Sprouse highlights several early indicators that may appear as young as age four or five:
- Difficulty rhyming
- Trouble remembering letter sounds
- Reversing letters
- Avoiding being read to
- Struggling to recall words or follow verbal instructions
Some children may also show mild delays in speech or fine motor skills, though many do not.
Dyslexia and Related Challenges
The episode also explores how dyslexia often overlaps with:
- Dysgraphia — difficulty with handwriting and written expression
- Dyspraxia — challenges with motor coordination
- Attention difficulties — sometimes mistaken for ADHD
Dr. Samango‑Sprouse explains that when reading is hard, children may appear inattentive or restless, but the root cause is often the frustration and stress of trying to keep up.
Why Early Identification Matters
Early assessment can be life‑changing. A proper evaluation typically includes:
- IQ testing
- Oral and silent reading assessments
- Writing samples
- Phonological processing measures
Understanding the cause of dyslexia is equally important. For some children, genetic factors — including X and Y chromosomal variations — may play a role, and identifying these can guide more tailored support.
How Families Can Support Their Child
Dr. Samango‑Sprouse offers several practical strategies:
- Seek early reading support through school‑based programs
- Use audiobooks to reduce frustration and support comprehension
- Pair reading aloud — the child reads a line, the parent reads two
- Celebrate strengths in creativity, problem‑solving, and curiosity
- Listen closely to what children say about their school experience
Above all, she emphasizes that children with dyslexia are smart, capable, and resilient, and with the right support, they thrive.
Dyslexia is highly responsive to intervention. The brain continues to grow and adapt throughout childhood and even into adulthood. With understanding, patience, and the right tools, children can build confidence and succeed academically and emotionally.
Watch the Full Podcast Episode
This article is based on a 2 Moms No Fluff podcast episode which is part of our ongoing podcast series offering an uncensored, often irreverent look at raising children with disabilities and proudly sponsored by 1in6 Support. You can watch the full conversation with Dr. Carole Samango‑Sprouse here.