The Link Between a Language and Reading Disorder
                     The Link Between a Language and Reading 
Disorder
The challenges of a language and reading disorder can profoundly affect both the child and 
their family. When these struggles become apparent, it’s natural for parents to feel concerned 
and seek answers. Understanding the difference between the two and how they are linked is 
the first step toward getting the proper support, and a formal evaluation is often the most 
critical part of that process.
What Is a Reading Disorder?
Dyslexia is a type of learning disability that impairs a person's ability to read, primarily 
affecting reading accuracy, speed, and spelling. However, this disorder can also involve 
comprehension issues, even if a person can decode words accurately. These difficulties are 
not tied to a person's intelligence but rather to a specific difference in how their brain is 
wired for language. Early identification is crucial for providing targeted interventions and 
preventing the development of a lifelong academic gap.
What Is a Language Disorder?
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a complex condition that impacts a child's ability 
to communicate. These language difficulties can profoundly affect their academic journey, 
from classroom learning to social interactions.
For a parent, a deep understanding of their child's DLD diagnosis is the first step toward 
finding solutions. Knowing the specifics of their unique needs allows you to implement 
targeted strategies at home and, most importantly, equips you to be their voice in the 
educational system. With this knowledge, you can confidently work with teachers and school 
staff to secure the right support and accommodations for your child's success.
The Link Between the Two
DLD is often a co-occurring condition with dyslexia. Many of the foundational skills for
reading, such as phonological awareness (recognizing and manipulating sounds), are 
developed through spoken language. If a child has difficulty with spoken language, they may 
also struggle with the written form of language. For example, a child who has trouble 
recalling specific words or forming sentences may also struggle to understand the vocabulary 
and syntax of a written story. This is why a comprehensive evaluation must look at more than 
just a child's reading skills; it should also assess their overall language abilities to get a 
complete picture of their unique profile.
What Does Dyslexia Testing Involve?
Dyslexia testing is a comprehensive process designed to pinpoint the specific challenges a 
child faces with reading and language. This is not a simple, one-size-fits-all test but rather an 
integrated approach that evaluates various skills and areas.
Educational Inspiration provides personalized, comprehensive dyslexia evaluations, 
combining expert assessment with family collaboration to support each child's learning 
journey. Our process includes a 2-day comprehensive assessment integrating family and 
academic history, standardized tests, and clinical analysis. The evaluation sessions last 2 to 
2.5 hours each and are held on separate days; families may stay during sessions. After the 
assessment, a family meeting is scheduled to discuss results and next steps.
This process helps to provide accurate diagnoses, if indicated, and personalized 
recommendations for academic success and ongoing support.
Finding the Right Professional for 
Dyslexia Testing
Partnering with the proper professional makes all the difference along the way. While 
school-based professionals can be a good starting point, they may have limitations in the 
depth and breadth of their assessments. A private specialist, such as a certified
speech-language pathologist and reading specialist like Nicole Power, can offer a more 
detailed and individualized evaluation.
When considering a specialist for testing dyslexia or Developmental Language Disorder, look 
for someone who has specific training and experience in this area. They should use
evidence-based tools and be able to provide clear, actionable recommendations based on 
the evaluation results. The goal is to find a partner who will help you understand your 
child’s unique needs and guide you toward a successful path.
Take the Next Step With Confidence
If you have concerns about your child's reading or language development, now is the time to 
take proactive action. At Educational Inspiration, we specialize in providing comprehensive, 
individualized evaluations that go beyond a simple diagnosis. Led by our certified
speech-language pathologist and reading specialist, we offer extensive educational 
assessments that identify the underlying causes of learning challenges. We take the time to 
understand your child as an individual, not just a set of test scores, and provide a clear, 
personalized plan for success.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your child's unique needs and
help guide them on their academic journey.