Developing effective social skills is critical for all children.

While everyone is concerned about the academic difficulties of children with dyslexia, very few parents or teachers are aware that it can also affect their social skills.

Since each child is unique and dyslexia manifests differently in everyone, the degree of social incompetence will also be diverse.

Social competence is an important aspect of interpersonal skills.

Here are 5 ways your child may be socially challenged:

1. Difficulty understanding social cues.
   • They have a hard time decoding body language, social cues, and facial expressions.
2. Inability to understand jokes.
   • They may have a rough time comprehending idioms and metaphoric language.
3. Trouble finding the right words.
   • This makes it difficult for them to express themselves and respond to others, as well as keep up with the conversation in a group.
4. Trouble communicating with friends and peers.
   • They have difficulty understanding abbreviations and peer-related messaging communication.
5. Not remembering things correctly.
   • They may not remember the specific words or details given, thus leading to confusion.

Not all children with dyslexia manifest poor social skills.

However, when they are emotionally and socially immature, this can affect the quality of their relationships.

Over time, this can cause lack of confidence, which can spiral to low self-esteem, increased anxiety, fear of failure, and embarrassment.

It is important that you understand the root of your child’s problem. Do not wait for the school to provide the solution.

You know your child best.

Take the initiative.

Be proactive.