What does hyperlexia refer to?

Hyperlexia is a term used to describe a condition where a child develops reading skills at an unusually early age, often beyond what is expected for their developmental level. This phenomenon is characterized by a fascination with letters and words, which can lead to advanced reading abilities, sometimes before the child has even fully grasped spoken language. While children with hyperlexia may struggle with comprehension and social interactions, their strong ability to read is the hallmark of this condition.

Understanding hyperlexia is important for educators and caregivers because it can occur alongside other developmental disorders, particularly autism. Recognizing this unique reading ability allows for tailored educational strategies that leverage the child's strengths in reading while addressing any accompanying challenges with language comprehension and social communication.