Parents often ask: Is documenting “Specific Learning Disability (SLD)” on the IEP the right “Code” (type of disability) when my child has Dyslexia? The short answer is yes—for IEP purposes, students who are found eligible for an IEP whose primary disability is dyslexia should be “coded” as having a Specific Learning Disability. These terms often overlap. Understanding the overlaps can make you a stronger advocate for your child.
Why Do Schools Use the Term SLD in Reading?
A Specific Learning Disability (SLD) is one of the 13 categories under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), one or more of which must be chosen as the “primary” disability on the IEP. When a student has dyslexia, “SLD” is the correct code to choose. The Federal definition of SLD includes dyslexia explicitly. When schools identify a student with an SLD in reading, they may be describing challenges such as:
- Decoding and sounding out words
- Reading fluency and accuracy
- Reading comprehension difficulties
However, many parents know only that their child has been diagnosed with dyslexia by a private evaluator and are confused when the “coding” chosen is not “dyslexia.” Because dyslexia is included within the definition of SLD, and dyslexia is not a separate category under IDEA, it is appropriate for a child who has dyslexia to be coded “SLD.” While schools use the broader category of SLD for the purposes of the IEP category (remember, there are only 13 options), they can also identify dyslexia specifically, and the U.S. Department of Education encourages them to do so when appropriate.
So, What Is Dyslexia Then?
“Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.” International Dyslexia Association.
Why It Matters to Use the Right Term
If your child is struggling with reading, having the IEP team note what exactly the SLD your child is dealing with can be more informative than just using the term SLD. Naming Dyslexia as the specific SLD (there are many other kinds) can impact the services they receive. Naming dyslexia specifically helps parents request the right interventions, accommodations, and supports in an IEP. It also helps school staff better understand your child’s unique learning needs.
What Parents Can Do
If your child has dyslexia, you can:
- Ask the school to identify in the IEP that your child shows dyslexia characteristics or has been diagnosed with dyslexia.
- Request an evidence-based for dyslexia reading intervention program (Not just evidence based– you need to know if evidence shows the program works for dyslexic children).
- Track progress carefully and consider outside evaluation if you want independent progress monitoring.
- Know your rights under IDEA and Section 504 to challenge school decisions.
Whether schools call it dyslexia specifically in addition to the SLD coding, or use the term “SLD in reading,” what matters most is ensuring your child receives the right support. You have the right to ask for specific, evidence-based interventions that match your child’s needs. In this case, evidence-based structured literacy intervention that is proven for dyslexic students.
Struggling with Reading Services? Speak with Our Special Education Lawyers in Maryland.
If you’re wondering “Why are they coding my child SLD instead of dyslexic on the IEP,” or “Is an SLD in Reading the same as Dyslexia?” and feel your school isn’t providing the right services, we can help. At The Law Offices of Joseph & Rabb, our experienced Special Education Lawyers in Maryland fight to ensure children with dyslexia or SLDs receive the evaluations, IEP services, and literacy interventions they deserve.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step in securing your child’s educational rights.