Mark it REaD for Dyslexia (CNW Group/Dyslexia Canada)

Dyslexia is the most common reason Canadian children struggle to learn to read, write and spell.

The Mark it REaD campaign helps to raise awareness.

“Dyslexia is the most common cause of reading difficulties. When children at risk for dyslexia are identified in kindergarten and intervention is provided right away, they can learn to read well and avoid the social and emotional impacts of falling behind. Unfortunately in Canada, most children with dyslexia are not being identified or properly supported at school, these kids are suffering needlessly and we are working to change that.” said Alicia Smith, Executive Director of Dyslexia Canada.

According to Dyslexia Canada, for 10 to 20 percent of children who are challenged with this reading difficulty, the teacher’s red pen is a constant reminder of the need for early identification and intervention.

Buildings and signs across the country will recognize Dyslexia Awareness Month by lighting up in red on different days throughout the month.

That includes the New Brunswick Legislature and Halifax City Hall which will both be illuminated by red lights on Sunday,  October 16th.

For more information about Dyslexia and the Mark it REaD campaign,  visit www.markitread.org.

“This year our Mark it REaD Campaign is a true celebration of progress. Over the past year, we have seen major steps toward recognizing dyslexia in Canada. Provinces such as Alberta and New Brunswick have also started making much-needed changes to early reading instruction. However we still do not have universal early screening for dyslexia, and as a result, far too many children are needlessly slipping through the cracks,” Dyslexia Canada reports.