Using respectful language about dyslexia and neurodiversity allows for dialogue, which is the first step towards building collaborative relationships.
Please Use:
- Dyslexic or Nondyslexic
- Neurodiverse or Neurotypical
- ADD or ADHD or AuDHD
- Dysgraphic or Dysgraphia
- Autistic or Autism
- Accessible, Accessibility, Access Needs, or Accommodations
- Disabled, Disability, or Nondisabled
- TAB (Temporarily Able Bodied)
- Co-occurrence
- Differences
- Characteristics
- Signs of dyslexia
- Approximately 17% of people are dyslexic
- Approximately 17% of people are on the dyslexic spectrum
IFL or PFL?
Neurodiverse communities tend to be Identify First Language (IFL) communities (example: dyslexic, autistic, etc.). If someone requests you use Person First Language (person with dyslexia), that is also completely fine.
Please Do Not Use:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Comorbidity
- Lifelong
- Overcome dyslexia, conquer dyslexia
- Normal or abnormal
- Reading Disorder
- Red flags, warning signs, symptoms
Avoid negative language or attitudes about dyslexia or neurodiversity.
Nondyslexic?
Please prioritize diversity, equity, inclusion, and lived experience. If you are nondylexic, please do not speak for dyslexics (this includes creating presentations, reports, initiatives, publications, and social media posts). Instead, seek to build partnerships. Make sure dyslexic library workers are leading library work related to dyslexia and literacy.