When reading feels harder than it should, there is a reason and a way forward.
You see it in the way they think.
The way they talk.
The way they understand the world.
But when it comes to reading, spelling or writing
Something doesn’t feel right.
They’re trying.
You can see they’re trying.
And yet…
Reading feels slow and effortful.
Spelling doesn’t stick.
Homework ends in frustration.
Confidence is starting to dip.
You’re left wondering:
Why is this so hard for them?
What is a dyslexia assessment for a child?
A dyslexia assessment for a child is a comprehensive evaluation of how they process language and learn to read and write. It assesses skills such as phonological processing, memory and reading ability, and provides a detailed report with tailored recommendations to support learning at school and at home.
Trusted dyslexia assessments for children across the UK.
APC qualified dyslexia assessor
23+ years in education
Detailed reports accepted by schools and professionals
Online and In-person assessments
From confusion to clarity - with expert guidance you can trust.
You can see they’re trying. So why is it still so hard?
You might recognise this:
Falling behind in reading.
Struggling with spelling.
Avoiding schoolwork.
Losing confidence.
This isn’t about effort.
And it isn’t about intelligence.
Dyslexia is a difference in how the brain processes language.
And once you understand that..
Everything starts to make sense.
What are the signs of dyslexia in children?
Every child is different, but common signs include:
-
Difficulty learning letter sounds.
-
Struggling to blend sounds when reading.
-
Poor or inconsistent spelling.
-
Avoiding reading or writing tasks.
-
Difficulty remembering instructions.
-
Slow or hesitant reading.
If you’re noticing several of these, it’s worth exploring further.
Dyslexia is not about intelligence. It's about processing.
Dyslexia is a difference in how the brain processes language and information.
A diagnosis doesn’t label you.
It explains you.
When a child doesn’t understand why learning feels harder.
They often assume it’s them.
Confidence drops.
Anxiety builds.
School becomes something to get through, not enjoy.
When a child struggles without answers, it affects more than learning.
It affects how they see themselves.
Assessment gives them something powerful:
'It’s not that I can’t learn, I just learn differently.'
What happens during a dyslexia assessment for a child?
Step 1: Before your assessment.
You’ll complete a short background questionnaire to help build a clear picture of your child’s history and experiences, ensuring the assessment is fully tailored.
Input from your child’s school or tutor is requested to provide additional insight into how they are learning in different environments.
Your child will need a recent eye test. If glasses have been prescribed, they should be worn during the assessment.
Step 2: Assessment session (approximately 2 - 2.5 hours)
A one-to-one session exploring:
-
memory
-
processing
-
reading and writing
-
language skills
The session is structured but supportive, allowing your child to feel comfortable while we gain an accurate understanding of how they learn.
Step 3: Your diagnostic report.
Following the assessment, you will receive a comprehensive written report within approximately 3 weeks.
This includes:
-
A clear outcome
-
A detailed cognitive profile
-
Practical, personalised recommendations
Insights from school or tutors are reflected in the report to ensure recommendations are joined-up and meaningful across settings.
Assessment investment - £550
What you gain
This is where everything shifts.
After an assessment, parents often say:
'I finally understand my child.'
Because you’ll have:
-
clarity about what’s going on
-
a clear plan for what to do next
-
strategies that actually work
-
evidence to support school conversations
And your child?
They begin to feel understood too.
What's included in your diagnostic report.
Your child’s diagnostic report is far more than a set of scores.
It is a comprehensive document that explains how your child learns, how their brain processes information, and what this means for their progress at school and beyond.
Every report is written with care, clarity and precision, so you leave with a full understanding of your child’s strengths, where the challenges lie, and exactly what to do next.
A clear conclusion
The report confirms whether dyslexia is present and outlines your child’s unique profile of strengths and difficulties.
For many parents, this is the moment everything finally makes sense.
Standardised assessment results
All reading, spelling, writing, memory and processing tasks are presented with standardised scores. These are explained in plain English so you understand what each measure shows about your learning profile.
Strengths and areas of difficulty
The report highlights your child’s strengths alongside the areas that need support.
This balanced profile is key to building confidence and ensuring the right support is put in place.
Detailed interpretation of findings
Each section explains what the results mean in real terms.
For example:
-
how phonological difficulties affect reading
-
how memory impacts following instructions
-
how processing speed influences classroom performance
Impact on learning and school life
The report connects assessment findings to everyday school experiences.
This helps you understand why your child may be finding certain aspects of learning more challenging than expected.
Tailored support strategies
You’ll receive personalised recommendations that can be used straight away, including:
-
Practical strategies for reading and spelling
-
Support for memory and organisation
-
Ways to reduce frustration and build confidence
-
Clear guidance to support learning at home
Guidance for schools and tutors
The report includes clear, practical advice for teachers, SENCOs and tutors.
This ensures your child receives consistent, joined-up support across all environments.
Exam Access Arrangements and Support
Where appropriate, the report outlines eligibility for:
-
Exam Access Arrangements (JCQ)
-
School-based support and interventions
-
Additional learning support
This helps ensure your child receives the support they are entitled to.
The Outcome
Most importantly, your child leaves with something they may not have had before:
Understanding. And from that comes confidence, support and the opportunity to thrive.
If something doesn’t feel right…
Trust that instinct.
You don’t need to wait for school to tell you.
You don’t need to keep guessing.
You can get clear answers and the right support.
Find out more about the assessor and their qualifications.
Why choose This is Dyslexia
-
Specialist in adult dyslexia assessments.
-
Over 23 years of experience in education.
-
Deep understanding of school systems and academic demands.
-
Strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming approach.
-
Clear next steps after diagnosis.
Dyslexia assessments for children in Kent and across the UK.
We provide dyslexia assessments for children:
Face-to-face in Canterbury, Kent.
Online across the UK.
Wherever you are, you receive the same high-quality, in-depth assessment and support.
Dyslexia Assessment for Children UK – FAQs
Q: What is a dyslexia assessment for a child?
A dyslexia assessment for a child is a comprehensive evaluation of how they process language, read and spell. It includes testing of memory, processing and literacy skills, and provides a detailed report with personalised recommendations to support learning at school and at home.
Q: What age should a child be assessed for dyslexia in the UK?
Children are usually assessed from around age 7, once they have had formal reading instruction. However, if your child is struggling and falling behind, it is important not to wait, as early assessment leads to earlier support.
Q: How do I get a dyslexia assessment for my child in the UK?
You can arrange a private dyslexia assessment with a qualified assessor. This includes a one-to-one assessment session, a full diagnostic report and tailored recommendations. Assessments are available both in person and online across the UK.
Q: How long does a dyslexia assessment take for a child?
A dyslexia assessment typically takes between 2 and 3 hours. This includes a structured evaluation of reading, spelling, memory and processing skills.
Will my child’s school accept a private dyslexia assessment?
Yes. Schools accept reports from qualified dyslexia assessors. These reports can be used to support classroom strategies, interventions and exam access arrangements where appropriate.
Q: Are online dyslexia assessments for children accurate?
Yes. Online dyslexia assessments are widely used and provide the same level of detail and accuracy as face-to-face assessments when delivered by a qualified specialist.
Q: How much does a dyslexia assessment cost for a child in the UK?
A private dyslexia assessment for a child in the UK typically costs between £400 and £700. This usually includes the full assessment, a detailed written report and personalised recommendations.
Q: What happens after my child is diagnosed with dyslexia?
After diagnosis, you will receive a detailed report explaining your child’s learning profile along with clear recommendations. This can be used to guide support at home, inform school provision and help your child build confidence.
Q: Do I need to wait for the school to assess my child?
No. You do not need to wait for the school. Many parents choose a private assessment to get answers sooner and ensure their child receives the right support as early as possible.
Q: Where can I get a dyslexia assessment for my child near me?
Dyslexia assessments are available face-to-face in Canterbury, Kent, and online across the UK. Online assessments provide the same level of detail and support, wherever you are based.