Beyond Dyslexia: Recognizing Developmental Language Disorder in the Classroom

About the Event

Oct. 15, 2026, 8 p.m.

Most educators can describe dyslexia, but far fewer recognize Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), even though it is more common and plays a significant role in reading comprehension. Students with DLD are frequently overlooked because they may decode adequately and appear quiet or shy, while their language and comprehension skills quietly fall behind.

In recognition of International DLD Awareness Day on October 16, join MaryKate DeSantis, literacy researcher and clinician, for a timely session exploring what DLD is, how it overlaps with and differs from dyslexia, and what it may look like in the classroom. Educators will learn to recognize observable signs across speaking, listening, reading, and writing to better understand when a student’s difficulties may extend beyond dyslexia.

Topic: Parents, Reading, Writing
Grade: Pre-K, K-2, 3-5