Assessment of Reading and Writing Learning Disorders (Dyslexia and Dysorthography): Understanding to Better Help Your Child
Does your child sound out each word syllable by syllable, study vocabulary words every night, and still make a lot of mistakes on Friday’s dictation? Are you wondering if this might be a learning disability, such as dyslexia or dysorthography? At CERC, our dyslexia and dysorthography assessment helps identify the underlying issues and determine how best to support your child. Since 2003, our neuropsychologists have been supporting families with professionalism and without judgment.
Dyslexia and Dysorthography: What Are We Talking About?
Dyslexia is a reading disorder, and dysorthography is a writing disorder. The two often occur together, hence the term “dyslexia-dysorthography.” Today, the official terminology refers to specific learning disorders involving a reading deficit or a written expression deficit. For more information, visit our page “Understanding Dyslexia and Dysorthography.”
A neurodevelopmental disorder, not a lack of effort
This neurodevelopmental disorder occurs despite average intelligence and adequate education. Specific learning disorders affect 5 to 15 percent of school-age children, and dyslexia is by far the most common, as noted by the Quebec Association of Neuropsychologists. And no, it’s not just about confusing “b” and “d”—it affects decoding, reading fluency, and the ability to remember how words are spelled.
Warning Signs to Watch For
People seek help when difficulties with reading or writing persist despite the support they receive at school and at home. Certain signs often appear:
- A slow, halting reading that ignores punctuation;
- Errors in decoding words while reading;
- Irregular words read "as they are written" ("fè-me" for "femme");
- Sound errors in writing;
- Words written phonetically; unfamiliarity with the spelling of words;
- They understand it much better when the text is read aloud to them;
- Slow progress despite the help received in class and at home;
- A lack of interest in—or even an aversion to—reading;
- A sense of fatigue—or even a loss of motivation—when faced with French homework.
These signs usually appear in the early years of elementary school, when children are learning to read. But a teenager or an adult may also be looking for answers to difficulties that have never been identified. Dyslexia is just one of the disorders we assess: our page onthe assessment of learning disabilities also covers dyscalculia.
Our Assessment Process for Reading and Writing Learning Disorders (Dyslexia and Dysorthography)
The neuropsychological evaluation combines standardized tests, a detailed analysis of errors, and a follow-up meeting to explain the results. The neuropsychologist does not simply measure a delay; he or she seeks to understand why the child is not learning to read like other children.
Initial Medical History and School Observations
During a one-hour session—often conducted remotely—the neuropsychologist reviews the child’s development, academic history, and the observations provided by the school.
Reading, Writing, and Cognitive Function Tests
The tests take place over the course of a full day or two half-days, for a total of 5 to 6 hours. Among other things, the neuropsychologist assesses:
- Reading: decoding, fluency, and comprehension;
- Spelling and Written Expression;
- Phonological awareness;
- Memory and Attention;
- Intellectual potential.
Differential Diagnosis and Dyslexia Profile
The assessment distinguishes between a specific disorder and a difficulty related to ADHD or anxiety. The analysis of errors also clarifies the dyslexia profile:
- Phonological: The child has difficulty associating letters with sounds and struggles with new words;
- Superficial: he does not recognize words at a glance and reads everything syllable by syllable;
- Mixed: Both reading paths are affected.
Review meeting and concrete recommendations
About three to four weeks after the evaluation, we’ll schedule a meeting to explain each finding and provide you with a detailed report. The diagnosis isn’t a label—it’s the starting point for intervention: rehabilitation involves specialized educational support that addresses the difficulties identified during the evaluation.
The neuropsychologist also makes recommendations for the school: a computer, writing-assistance software, and extra time on exams. Whether these recommendations are implemented is at the discretion of the school, which may incorporate them into the student’s intervention plan. Schools usually welcome our reports with an open mind.
Why should you trust the CERC team?
Since 2003, the CERC has established itself as a leading authority in neuropsychology for children, adolescents, and adults in Quebec.
More than 23 years of expertise in learning disabilities
Every year, our neuropsychologists evaluate many children with reading and writing difficulties. They work closely with our special education teachers, ensuring continuity between diagnosis and rehabilitation.
Institutional partnerships and rigorous evaluation
For the review of case studies and continuing education, we collaborate with the Ordre des psychologues du Québec and the Association québécoise des neuropsychologues. Every test we use is standardized and recognized.
Three clinics and an online option
Our clinics welcome you in Ville Mont-Royal (1100 Beaumont Avenue, Suite 410), Laval (3333 Souvenir Boulevard, Suite 203), and Brossard (6400 Auteuil Avenue, Suite 450). We serve families from the Island of Montreal, the North Shore as far as Mont-Tremblant, and the Montérégie region. Do you live farther away? A remote neuropsychological evaluation is available to residents of five remote regions in Quebec.
A caring, family-centered approach
We place respect, empathy, and active listening at the heart of our practice. Our goal: to empower parents—without judgment—as they navigate academic challenges.
Ready to gain a better understanding of your child's reading and writing skills? Contact the CERC team to schedule your dyslexia and dysorthographia evaluation.
To schedule an appointment or for any questions regarding dyslexia and dysorthography
Our neuropsychologists
Assessments are conducted by neuropsychologists who are members of the Ordre des psychologues du Québec. Rehabilitation follow-ups are provided by our special education teachers.
