Reading difficulties explained

Reading challenges are more common than many realize, yet they aren’t always openly discussed. For families with children who may be struggling with reading, it can feel isolating. Some parents may be unsure if their child truly needs help, while others may not realize the extent of the difficulties. At Ravinia Reading Center, we often see that many children are able to mask their struggles through strong compensatory strategies, which can make it difficult for both parents and teachers to identify the need for additional support.

A study conducted in Connecticut found that less than one-third of children reading below their grade level were receiving school services for reading difficulties. This highlights that many reading challenges may go under the radar, leaving families unaware that intervention might be necessary. While teachers are doing their best to manage the diverse needs of a classroom, they may reassure parents that reading skills will develop over time. And while that can sometimes be the case, for many children, targeted instruction is essential to help them achieve reading success.

Research consistently shows that learning to read requires specific teaching strategies. According to experts like Dr. G. Reid Lyon, former Chief of the Child Development and Behavior Branch at the National Institutes of Health, about 60% of students need structured, effective reading instruction to thrive. For a smaller percentage, reading comes more naturally, but for others, reading may be one of the most challenging tasks they encounter.

Dr. Sally Shaywitz, co-director of the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity and author of Overcoming Dyslexia, emphasizes that around one in five children struggle with reading. Fortunately, research has shown that with the right approach, these difficulties can be addressed.

At Ravinia Reading Center, we believe in empowering each child through personalized instruction, because we know that reading is a skill that can be taught.

The good news is that these challenges are not insurmountable. Whether a child is showing early signs of reading difficulty or is falling behind, there are effective, evidence-based methods to help. With the right support, children can not only improve their reading skills but also develop the confidence and joy that come with reading success. Together, we can make reading a rewarding experience for every child.

For additional resources or studies, please see the latest findings on dyslexia and reading challenges in children from the National Center on Improving Literacy.