Preparing for a Dyslexia Assessment in Singapore: A Parent's Checklist

Realising that your child may have a learning difference can be an emotional moment for any parent. However, taking the step to arrange a formal assessment is a positive move toward getting them the support they need to thrive.

In Singapore, the pathway to a diagnosis is rigorous and structured. To help you navigate this process with confidence, we have compiled an actionable "to-do list." This guide covers what to observe, the documents you must prepare, and crucially, why ruling out visual barriers should be your very first step.

What To Look For Before Getting A Dyslexia Assessment

Before booking an assessment, it is important to gather specific observations to share with the psychologist. Start by reviewing school reports or teacher feedback. You should specifically look for comments regarding reading fluency or comprehension, and observe if homework appears "messy" or disorganised compared to peers.

According to the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS), common signs to watch for include [1]:

• Slow or laborious reading.

• Frequently skipping lines or words.

• Active avoidance of reading aloud.

• Persistent challenges with reversing letters (like ‘b’ and ‘d’).

It is critical to note that signs like skipping lines or "words moving" can often be due to functional vision issues. The American Optometric Association (AOA) highlights that these vision-related challenges can mimic learning disabilities. Distinguishing between a visual efficiency issue ("hardware") and a cognitive processing issue ("software") is vital [2].

Understanding The Dyslexia Assessment Process In Singapore

In Singapore, a formal diagnosis must be conducted by a qualified professional. To ensure the assessment is recognised, parents should look for psychologists from the Ministry of Education (MOE), registered psychologists at the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS), or clinical/educational psychologists registered with the Singapore Psychological Society (SPS).

A full psychological assessment is rigorous. It typically takes around four hours to complete and is often split into two sessions to prevent fatigue from affecting the child's performance.

The evaluation generally includes two main components:

1. A Cognitive (IQ) Test: To assess reasoning, memory, and processing speed.

2. Standardised Attainment Tests: To measure reading accuracy, fluency, spelling, and phonological processing skills.

How To Prepare For A Dyslexia Assessment

Preparation is key to a smooth assessment experience. The Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) advises parents to compile a comprehensive portfolio to give the psychologist a complete picture of the child's history [1].

Your Preparation Checklist:

• Documents: Gather copies of national and school exam result slips, examples of the child's work (especially unaided writing), and any completed teacher's questionnaires.

• Developmental History: The psychologist will require a detailed history. Prepare information regarding your child's developmental milestones (such as walking and talking), any family history of learning difficulties (as there is often a genetic component), and a detailed medical history.

• Vision Check: Crucially, the DAS Parental Checklist specifically asks if the child has had a recent eye test to confirm their vision is satisfactory [1]. This highlights the importance of ruling out visual issues before testing cognitive processing.

To prepare the child emotionally, it is best to avoid the word "test." Instead, explain that they will be doing some "puzzles or games" to find out how they learn best. Reassure them that there are no wrong answers and that you are there to support them.

What Happens During & After the Assessment?

During the assessment, the child will engage in various tasks involving blocks, puzzles, reading lists, and listening activities. This takes place in a quiet, one-on-one setting designed to be supportive rather than stressful.

After the assessment, the DAS Assessment Service states that parents will receive a password-protected psychological report [3]. This document outlines the child's unique learning profile and, if applicable, provides a formal diagnosis.

This report is essential for applying for official support. It is the document required to request exam accommodations (such as extra time) via the Ministry of Education (MOE) or to gain entry into specialised intervention programmes.

How Orthovision Fits Into Your Child's Assessment Journey

We strongly recommend a functional vision evaluation before or alongside a dyslexia diagnosis. If a child’s eyes cannot physically track across a page (oculomotor dysfunction), they may fail a reading test for visual reasons, not cognitive ones.

• The Hardware (Orthovision): We ensure the visual system - eye teaming, focusing, and tracking - is working correctly.

• The Software (Dyslexia Intervention): Educational support addresses processing and phonics.

Our founder, Zoran Pejic, is the only licensed INPP practitioner in the region. We include an INPP screening to identify retained primitive reflexes that may be interfering with your child's ability to maintain focus or sit still while reading.

Before proceeding with a formal dyslexia assessment, ensure your child’s visual "hardware" is ready for the challenge. The Comprehensive Visual Cognitive Assessment at Orthovision can identify the root cause of reading barriers that standard checks often miss.

Book a Comprehensive Assessment Today. Take the first step toward removing the barriers to your child’s learning and helping them achieve their full potential.

References

[1] Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS). Assessment Services & Parental Checklist. [2] American Optometric Association (AOA). Vision-related Learning Problems. 

[3] Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS). What happens after the assessment?.