October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the lived experiences of individuals with dyslexia, share the latest research, and challenge common myths. This year’s conversations are especially timely, with a new Delphi consensus, released in 2025, offering fresh insights into how dyslexia is understood and defined.
Research Spotlight: New Consensus on Dyslexia – Why Delphi Matters
The Delphi method brings experts together to agree on definitions and guidelines when evidence is complex or contested. Dyslexia has updated consensus definitions thanks to this process, helping reduce confusion in schools, clinics, and policy.
Dyslexia: Fresh Insights (2025 Delphi Consensus)
Reading fluency is central – It’s not just about sounding out words. The new consensus highlights fluency (reading smoothly and quickly) and spelling as key features across ages.
No IQ mismatch required – Dyslexia can affect people with any level of general ability. The outdated “IQ gap” definition has been dropped.
It’s dimensional, not all-or-nothing – Dyslexia sits on a continuum. Some people experience mild challenges, others severe. Supports should be flexible and tailored.
Beyond phonology – While phonological challenges are common, working memory, orthographic skills, and processing speed may also play a role.
Did You Know? Myths vs Facts About Dyslexia
❌ Myth: Dyslexia is just letter reversals and a visual problem, people "see or write letter backwards"
✔️ Fact: It’s about fluent reading and spelling, not simple swaps.
❌ Myth: Dyslexia and DLD/ADHD can’t co-occur.
✔️ Fact: Co-occurrence is common. These conditions are distinct but often overlap.
❌ Myth: Kids will “catch up if they try harder.”
✔️ Fact: Dyslexia is neurodevelopment, not laziness. Intervention is essential.
❌ Myth: Dyslexia only affects reading and spelling.
✔️ Fact: It can also impact reading comprehension, learning new languages, and even maths.
❌ Myth: Dyslexia and intelligence are linked.
✔️ Fact: Dyslexia occurs across all levels of intelligence.