Turn Awareness into Action: Why Dyslexia & ADHD Awareness Month Matters

With the school year now in full swing, what are you noticing?    

October is often when behavior and academic patterns begin to emerge that may not have been obvious when school first started.    

Now, the excitement of the new academic year has worn off, routines are more established, and classroom expectations have increased. As a result, any struggles with reading, attention, organization, or executive functioning can become more noticeable.   

That’s what makes Dyslexia Awareness and ADHD Awareness Month so timely. Behaviors that might have been chalked up to carelessness, low motivation, forgetfulness, or a reluctance to read may actually be signs of learning or attention differences.

What signs might suggest that a child needs additional support?

Signs of dyslexia can include difficulty…

• Reading accurately and fluently.
• Spelling words correctly.
• Decoding unfamiliar words.
• Recognizing common sight words.

Signs of ADHD can include difficulty…

• Sustaining attention.
• Following multistep directions.
• Staying organized.
• Managing time.
• Controlling impulses.

Sometimes these signs overlap. For example, a child who struggles to complete assignments, stay focused during reading, or follow instructions may be experiencing issues related to dyslexia, ADHD, or both.

Recognizing these signs does not mean jumping to conclusions or assigning labels. Instead, awareness provides an opportunity to take a closer look, ask questions, and seek additional support when needed. Paying attention to persistent patterns can be the first step toward understanding a child’s unique learning needs and helping them access the tools and support they deserve.

Let Awareness Spark Action

Awareness becomes most powerful when it sparks action. This October, take time to deepen your understanding of dyslexia and ADHD, celebrate the strengths of diverse learners, and find ways to support children who may be navigating these challenges today. Here are a few ways you can start:  

Read and learn together.

Use books to explore what it means to have dyslexia or ADHD. A wonderful resource for families and educators is the Different Thinkers picture book series. Specific titles on dyslexia and ADHD offer reassurance and insight on what a diagnosis means and how neurodivergent children can thrive.  

Collaborate.

When parents, teachers, counselors, and support staff communicate regularly, you can share observations, celebrate progress, and provide consistent strategies that help children succeed at home and in the classroom.

Know what accommodations are available.

Have conversations about available accommodations and supports or, if a child has an IEP or a 504 Plan, whether adjustments could strengthen existing services. The special education system can feel complex and daunting at times. To better understand your options and a school’s obligations, the book Navigating Your Child’s Unique Mental & Physical Needs is an excellent source for guidance and reassurance.

Focus on strengths.

Acknowledge and spend time talking with children about the things they are good at, and discuss how some of those strengths may be connected to how their brain works. For example, many children with dyslexia are highly creative, curious, and strong problem-solvers who often find unique ways to approach challenges. Children with ADHD are frequently energetic, enthusiastic, and willing to try new things, qualities that can foster innovation, leadership, and perseverance.

Lead with compassion and understanding, not judgment.

When a child struggles with reading, organization, focus, or behavior, try asking, “What’s making this difficult?” rather than, “Why don’t you try harder?” This small shift in tone and perspective can strengthen your relationship and lead to more effective support.

Dyslexia and ADHD are not a reflection of intelligence, nor should they define who a child is or what success they can achieve. Use Dyslexia Awareness Month and ADHD Awareness Month as an opportunity to ensure every child feels understood, supported, and valued.

When parents and educators work together, every child can develop the confidence and skills they need to succeed.