"The earlier we intervene with reading difficulties, the more dramatic the results. Waiting for a child to 'catch up' on their own often means watching them fall further behind—when what they really need is the right support at the right time."

— Dr. Louisa Moats, Reading Specialist and Author

Introduction:

Deciding when to seek professional help for your child's reading struggles can feel overwhelming. Many Australian parents wonder whether to "wait and see" or take action, especially when schools suggest patience.

This guide helps you understand when professional assessment and intervention can make the most difference for your child's reading development and confidence.

Red Flags That Warrant Professional Assessment

Academic Indicators:

• Reading 6+ months below grade level

• Significant gap between listening comprehension and reading ability

• Avoiding reading activities consistently

• Little progress despite extra help at school

Emotional and Behavioural Signs:

• Saying "I'm dumb" or "I hate reading"

• Homework battles over reading tasks

• Loss of confidence in academic abilities

• Physical complaints before reading activities

Why Earlier Intervention Matters

Research consistently shows that intervention is most effective when implemented early. Children who receive appropriate support by age 8 typically make faster progress than those who wait until later primary school years.

What Professional Assessment Involves

A comprehensive reading assessment examines:

• Phonological awareness and processing

• Reading accuracy and fluency

• Comprehension skills

• Cognitive abilities affecting literacy

• Emotional factors impacting learning

Questions to Ask Before Assessment

• What specific tests will be administered?

• How long will the assessment take?

• What kind of report will I receive?

• Will recommendations include home strategies?

• How do you determine if intervention is needed?

Types of Professional Support Available

Educational Psychologists: Comprehensive testing and diagnosis Literacy Specialists: Targeted reading intervention Speech Pathologists: Language and phonological support Occupational Therapists: Fine motor and visual processing support

Making the Decision

If you're questioning whether your child needs help, that instinct is often worth following. Professional assessment can either provide reassurance that development is on track or identify specific areas needing support.

What to Expect from Quality Intervention

Effective reading intervention should:

• Be based on comprehensive assessment

• Target specific skill gaps

• Include regular progress monitoring

• Address both skills and confidence

• Involve family support strategies

Trust your instincts about your child's reading development. Our preliminary assessment can provide the clarity you need to make informed decisions about support. Book your preliminary assessment today.