Developmental Health

Dyslexia is a common learning difficulty that affects reading, writing, and spelling. Individuals with dyslexia may struggle with decoding words, spelling, and reading fluency, despite normal intelligence. Early diagnosis and tailored teaching methods can help manage these challenges.

Trusted Resources:

• British Dyslexia Association: provides support, information, and resources for individuals with dyslexia, helping them navigate learning challenges.

• Dyslexia Action: offers specialized assessments, training, and support services for people with dyslexia.

• Dyslexic Advantage: offers a range of resources, support, and success stories for individuals with dyslexia.

• The National Center for Learning Disabilities: provides resources for families and educators working with children and adults with dyslexia.

Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), is a motor skills disorder that affects physical coordination. People with dyspraxia may struggle with tasks such as writing, tying shoelaces, or other activities that require fine or gross motor control.

Trusted Resources:

• Dyspraxia Foundation: offers information, resources, and support for individuals and families affected by dyspraxia.

• Dyspraxia Awareness: provides guidance and self-help strategies for individuals with dyspraxia to manage their condition.

• Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) Network: connects parents and professionals to resources and support for individuals with dyspraxia.

• The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS): provides detailed medical information and research on developmental coordination disorders.• 

Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements and sounds called tics. These tics can range from simple motor movements to more complex verbal outbursts and often begin in childhood.

Trusted Resources:

• Tourettes Action: a UK-based charity providing advice, support, and information for those affected by Tourette syndrome.

• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS): offers comprehensive information on Tourette syndrome, including its symptoms, treatments, and ongoing research.

• Mind: provides advice on managing tics and the mental health challenges associated with Tourette’s syndrome.

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition where the brain has trouble processing sensory information, leading to over- or under-sensitivity to stimuli. This can result in challenges in daily activities, including social interactions, motor coordination, and academic performance.

Trusted Resources:

• The SPD Foundation: offers support, education, and resources for families and professionals working with children and adults with SPD.

• The National Autism Association: provides insights into the connection between autism and sensory processing challenges, offering valuable intervention strategies.

• SPD Parent Network: provides a community and resources for parents dealing with sensory processing issues in children.

• Star Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder: focuses on research and therapy programs for individuals with sensory processing challenges.

• Samaritans: Offers confidential 24/7 support for anyone in emotional distress.

• Shout: Free, confidential text support for mental health crises.

• CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Provides mental health crisis support, especially for men.

• Rethink Mental Illness Crisis Support: Offers advice and guidance for individuals and carers during mental health crises.

• Mind Infoline: Confidential advice offering information on mental health support, treatments and local resources available in your area.

• Headspace: A mindfulness and meditation app to reduce stress and improve focus.

• Calm: Offers sleep stories, guided meditation, and breathing exercises.

• Woebot: A mental health chatbot providing CBT-based support.

• SilverCloud Health: An app offering online programs for stress, anxiety, and depression.