"Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge." 

Adopted by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) Board of Directors, Nov. 12, 2002. This definition is also used by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD).

Click here for the common signs of dyslexia.

Is Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)/Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) related to dyslexia?

While dyslexia is a developmental learning disability, ADD/ADHD is a behavioral disorder. Dyslexia and ADD/ADHD are often comorbid, with up to 50% of those diagnosed with dyslexia having been diagnosed with ADHD as well. It is important to recognize that although both diagnoses may exist, one is not the cause of the other. It is especially important to seek evaluation to identify the primary problem as dyslexia and ADHD are often confused.

Who is qualified to test for the presence of dyslexia?

A professional with training in psychology, reading, language and education may be qualified to assess dyslexia. Most individuals qualified to perform this type of assessment hold a doctoral degree in their respective field.

Is there one single test that can determine the presence of dyslexia?

Unfortunately, there is no single test that can determine the presence of dyslexia. It is necessary to employ a battery of tests measuring expressive oral language, expressive written language, receptive oral language, receptive written language, intellectual functioning, cognitive processing and educational achievement.

What is a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT)?

Certified Academic Language Therapists are qualified to treat children and adults diagnosed with written-language learning disabilities. They hold baccalaureate degrees or higher and have completed extensive post-graduate education in the theories and methods of remedial written-language treatment as well as the use of multisensory, structured, phonetic, language-based curricula. In addition, they have successfully completed the Academic Language Therapy Association (ALTA) qualifying exam, are members in good standing of the Association and adhere to its Bylaws, Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. For more information, please visit the ALTA website.

Can you license individuals to become reading teachers in Colorado? 

No, we do not license teachers. Currently, the only states to offer licensure to CALT's are Mississippi and Texas. Licensure for CALT's is pending in several states, but currently not Colorado.

Do you require a license in teaching to enroll in your trainings? 

No, we do not require a teaching license to enroll in our programs. However, an undergraduate degree is required to enter programs leading to certification from the Academic Language Therapy Association at both the Teaching and Therapy levels. Summer training offered at Colorado College is restricted to teachers who have current licensure in the state of Colorado.

Are you a part of the Colorado Department of Education? 

No, we are not associated with the Colorado Department of Education. We are an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization under the guidance of our Board of Directors.