Dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia—these 'dys' disorders impact countless children in France. Established in 2007, National Dys Day on October 10 raises awareness. Learn what these disorders entail and their profound effects on affected children.
What Are 'Dys' Disorders?
'Dys' disorders refer to cognitive impairments that hinder learning in children. They may affect language, math, motor skills, or attention, but they are not intellectual disabilities. Severity varies widely among individuals.
Key 'dys' disorders include:
'Dys' Disorders in Figures
About 5-7% of schoolchildren are affected. In 1-2% of cases, disorders are severe and highly disabling. 40% of children with 'dys' issues have more than one [1].
Daily Impact on Children
These disorders create diverse challenges, including major learning hurdles since reading, writing, and math form foundational skills. Unmastered basics lead to cascading academic gaps. Socially, children may withdraw, feeling ashamed to engage with peers.
Affected children often require tailored support, specialized instruction, and closer monitoring—sometimes necessitating school changes that disrupt routines. Diagnosis delays can erode confidence, postponing vital help.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Though diagnosis is complex, key indicators include:
If your child lags in school or socially, consult a doctor promptly.
How Are They Diagnosed?
Parents and teachers are frontline observers. Discuss concerns collaboratively. Rule out intellectual or psychiatric issues first, then pursue targeted assessments like speech therapy, psychomotor, or cognitive evaluations.
Treatments and Support Options
These lifelong conditions benefit from psychomotricity, occupational therapy, orthoptics, and speech therapy. With the Esprit Santé offer from Mieux-être mutual fund, medically prescribed procedures are covered, varying by plan and Health Insurance reimbursement.
Psychological support aids emotional coping. Schools should adapt with oral instructions, lesson photocopies, reformulated directions, and extended test time.
Helpful Apps
Apps like Atelecture (reading support), Orthographo (spelling), and Deductimo (comprehension) assist daily management.
Very diverse, 'dys' disorders touch many young children. Vigilant monitoring enables early detection, amplified by National Dys Day awareness efforts.
Sources:
https://www.passeportsante.net/fr/Actualites/Dossiers/DossierComplexe.aspx?doc=etre-une-personne-dys-dyslexie-dysorthographie-dysgraphie-dyscalculie-
https://www.inserm.fr/information-en-sante/dossiers-information/troubles-specifiques-apprentissages
https://www.afped.ca/dynamiques/documents/afped_publications/liste_manifestations_nov-2018-vf.pdf
[1] Inserm
