First Graders question #2

Aidan still writes some letters backwards: p, g and r seem to be the most common. He's figured out b & d by forming the letters with his left and right hands (L = b and R = d) but he has to stop and think about it. Dyslexia runs in my family so I wondered if this is within the realm of normal developmentally.

TIA,
Christy

 

My son formed alot of letters backwards until he was used to writing them, especially the b, d, p, and q. However, if dyslexia runs in the family, it would be something you might want to discuss with his teacher. They would be able to tell you whether to be concerned or not since they deal with that stuff daily. How's his reading? That would be where you should be able to tell if there is a true problem based on his reading skills more so than writing at this point.

 

It is perfectly normal for first and even second graders. Does he notice that it is backwards (even if you are pointing it out)? If he can't recognize it as being backwards, then I would look into it further. But, if he is able to recognize that it isn't "right"--even with prompting from you, then I wouldn't worry about it. One of my boys is still reversing numbers from time to time.

 

Reversing letters is very developmental. At the beginning of the year, students make many reversals. It is often a concern of parents. I always say that it is developmental and they will eventually turn themselves around. As the year goes on, you notice less and less reversals.

As pp said, I would mention to the teacher that dyslexia runs in your family so a close eye can be kept on him.

 

My MIL is an Elementary teacher. She told one of my friends, who also has it in her family, to wait until second, sometimes even third grade to get them tested. A lot of first graders tend to still make their letters backwards.

 

It sounds like there is a consensus here that what you are describing sounds perfectly normal. Nicole also used to write her name forward and backwards when she was learning to write it. When she wrote it backwards it was a "mirror image" with all the letters backwards as well. I thought it was very strange and was concerned, but she rarely reverses her letters now. It sounds like you are right on top of things with Aiden. With that on his side, he'll do great!

 

Yes, he does recognize the letters are backwards when we point it out to him and I'd forgotten he reverses some numbers too. As for reading, he recognizes sight words and can make it through most of the "Bob" books so I think he's processing the information correctly. I will watch his progress but based on your replies I think he's where he should be. Thanks for the responses.

Christy

 

I agree it's "normal"

 

It is very normal for this age

 

Yep, normal. My first grader does it, too. So, I know how hard it is not to wonder and worry! :hug: