Search
Close this search box.
Search
Close this search box.
Take a Course

Hyperlexia in Children: Signs, Diagnosis & Treatment

  • Hyperlexia is when children recognize or hyperfocus on letters and even read early but struggle with comprehension and social skills; it’s often linked to autism, and Type III can be hard to diagnose due to diminishing autistic-like traits.
  • the 4-step proven Barbera Method™ can help young children who hyperfocus on letters or read early with or without a diagnosis of autism or hyperlexia.
  • Knowing what causes hyperlexia, its common strengths, and and support, especially given its relationship with autism.

What is Hyperlexia? 

Hyperlexia is when children display advanced recognition of letters, words or advanced reading skills and abilities that surpass their expected age and intellectual norms. It involves hyper-fixation and focus on letters, words, and sometimes early reading. Hyperlexia is often linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and affects roughly 6% to 20% of all children with autism. 

In my book, Turn Autism Around, I focus on helping parents identify and address early signs of autism. In my autism podcast, Turn Autism Around, I discuss hyperlexia in children extensively. 

In this article, I’m going to dive deeper into the topic of hyperlexia. You’ll gain a better understanding of what it is, what causes it, how it can affect your child, and the most effective interventions. I’ll define hyperlexia, discuss the different types, share interesting facts and statistics, and outline common signs to look out for when evaluating your child. 

Lastly, I’ll share personal stories and resources that can help you on your journey to learn more about hyperlexia and autism—and to better help you turn autism around for your child. I’ll also share my podcast episode, Turn Autism Around episode 141, which delves deeper into hyperlexia and ways you can help your child. 

A young girl wearing glasses with hyperlexia reading a book in her room
A young girl wearing glasses with hyperlexia reading a book in her room

Free Workshop

Increase Talking &
Decrease Tantrums

in Young Children with

Autism &/or Speech Delays

Register for Free Training

Defining Hyperlexia in Simple Terms

In simple terms, hyperlexia is when a young child hyperfocuses on letters and words and shows reading skills that are significantly advanced for their age or reading comprehension level. A hyperlexic child will be fascinated with letters, numbers, and words, which can result in early reading and spelling abilities.

While some may confuse hyperlexia with a learning disability, it’s a trait that can coexist with other learning-related issues.

What Causes Hyperlexia?

The exact cause of hyperlexia is not fully understood. It is considered a neurodevelopmental difference that may be linked to the way a child’s brain processes language and symbols. Some researchers believe that hyperlexia results from an innate ability to decode written language, which may be connected to the same cognitive processes involved in autism. Genetic factors might also play a role, but more research is needed to determine the specific causes.

How Common is Hyperlexia Really?

Hyperlexia most commonly affects children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While it’s challenging to find exact statistics, it is believed that hyperlexia affects roughly 6% to 20% of children with autism, according to McGill University.

In a recent study conducted by McGill on helping children with autism and hyperlexia to understand what they read, Dianne Macdonald covers some of the challenges that exist with measuring statistics and accuracy as they relate to hyperlexia.

According to WebMD, approximately 1 out of 36 children are expected to show some signs of autism spectrum disorder. It’s also important to note that a child with hyperlexia is more likely to get a diagnosis of autism, not less.

So, it’s clear that while it may not be very common, it’s a trait you should be aware of. To make matters even more interesting, there are different types of hyperlexia, which I’ll cover next.

A chart showing the different types of hyperlexia that exist.
A chart showing the different types of hyperlexia that exist.

Types of Hyperlexia

What are the different types of hyperlexia that exist? There are three different types of hyperlexia that can occur in children based on specific factors. You’ll gain a better understanding of the differences and similarities that each type includes:

Hyperlexia Type I

Hyperlexia Type I occurs in neurotypical children who learn to read above their expected reading comprehension level without displaying signs or symptoms of disabilities like autism. These children have an intense interest in letters and numbers but develop social and language skills typically. This form of hyperlexia often resolves on its own and is thus considered temporary.

Hyperlexia Type II

Hyperlexia Type II happens in children on the autism spectrum. This type of hyperlexia is often linked to a child’s obsession with numbers and letters. Children with Hyperlexia Type II have a remarkable ability to recall numbers and dates. Typical signs of autism are present in these children, including sensitivity to sensory stimuli, eye contact avoidance, speech delay, and difficulties with social skills.

Hyperlexia Type III

Hyperlexia Type III is similar to Type II, with one major difference: a child’s symptoms decrease and disappear over time. Children with Hyperlexia Type III are often early readers but may not excel in other areas like verbal language development initially. However, they are known to be more sociable and outgoing, showing signs of affection and making eye contact. Hyperlexia Type III can be difficult to diagnose because, in addition to early reading, children often show “autistic-like” traits and behaviors that may diminish as they grow older.

Free Workshop

Increase Talking &
Decrease Tantrums

in Young Children with

Autism &/or Speech Delays

Register for Free Training

Signs and Symptoms of Hyperlexia in Children

Now that you have a better understanding of the distinct types of hyperlexia, I’d like to share some of the most common signs:

  1. Advanced Reading Ability: A child may develop reading skills faster than most other children in their age group. This may include signs like repetition of words that a child hears or sees and even result in a child learning to read on their own (reading early).
  2. Developmental Issues: Developmental disorders are common in children who are hyperlexic. Such issues can include lower communication skills, speech delays, and behavioral problems.
  3. Lower Comprehension: While hyperlexic kids excel at decoding words, they often display lower than average ability to understand and comprehend what they read. Figuring out puzzles and games can be challenging and frustrating. Written language comprehension can also be a challenge.
  4. Affection for Books: Children with hyperlexia love books and reading. This special ability and affection can lead to better spelling skills and a fascination with words, letters, and numbers. They may enjoy reading more than playing with toys and games.

Common Hyperlexia Strengths

Children with hyperlexia often display remarkable strengths, including:

  • Exceptional Memory Skills: They can recall facts, figures, and even complex sequences with ease.
  • Strong Visual Learning Abilities: Visual aids and written instructions are highly effective for them.
  • Attention to Detail: They often notice details that others might overlook.
  • Early Reading Skills: Their ability to decode words at an early age is a significant strength.

These strengths can be harnessed to support their learning and development in other areas.

Hyperlexia vs. Dyslexia: Key Differences

While hyperlexia and dyslexia both involve reading, they are fundamentally different:

  • Hyperlexia: Characterized by advanced decoding abilities but difficulties with comprehension and social communication.
  • Dyslexia: Involves challenges with decoding words and reading fluently but does not necessarily affect comprehension once words are decoded.

Understanding these differences is crucial for providing proper support.

Relationship Between Hyperlexia and Autism

Hyperlexia is often associated with autism. Many children with hyperlexia also have ASD, but not all. The relationship between the two is complex:

  • Shared Traits: Both may show difficulties with social skills, communication, and may have repetitive behaviors.
  • Diagnostic Overlaps: Hyperlexia can sometimes be an early indicator of autism, but it can also exist independently.
  • Importance of Evaluation: A thorough assessment by professionals is essential to determine whether hyperlexia is part of a broader diagnosis of ASD or another developmental issue.

Free Workshop

Increase Talking &
Decrease Tantrums

in Young Children with

Autism &/or Speech Delays

Register for Free Training

How Is Hyperlexia Diagnosed?

Diagnosing hyperlexia involves a comprehensive evaluation by professionals such as pediatricians, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and occupational therapists. Here’s how the process typically works:

  • Assessment of Reading Skills: Evaluating the child’s ability to decode words and read aloud.
  • Language Comprehension Tests: Measuring understanding of spoken and written language.
  • Developmental Evaluation: Assessing social skills, communication abilities, and behavioral patterns.
  • Differentiating from Giftedness: Ensuring that advanced reading is not simply a sign of giftedness but is accompanied by other characteristic traits of hyperlexia.

Hyperlexia Type III can be particularly difficult to diagnose because children often show “autistic-like” traits that may diminish over time. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for implementing appropriate interventions.

Hyperlexia, Reading Comprehension, and Giftedness

While a child with hyperlexia may be able to read or decode words faster than most children their age, this can often be confused with giftedness. However, key differences include:

  • Communication Skills: Gifted children typically demonstrate high levels of communication and speaking skills, while children with hyperlexia may struggle in these areas.
  • Comprehension: Gifted readers usually understand what they read, while hyperlexic children may not understand the material despite reading it fluently.
  • Social Interaction: Gifted children generally develop typical social skills, unlike some children with hyperlexia who may have social difficulties.
A mother is reading a book with her hyperlexic child, as a strategy to help with hyperlexia treatment.
A mother is reading a book with her hyperlexic child, as a strategy to help with hyperlexia treatment.

Appropriate Interventions and Strategies for Hyperlexia

There are several effective interventions to help a child with hyperlexia:

  1. Language Comprehension Exercises:
    • Visualizing and Verbalizing Kits: These tools help develop concept imagery and improve comprehension skills.
    • Story Grammar and Story Mapping Exercises: These techniques help children in understanding the structure of stories and improve recall.
    • Scaffolding and the Scaffolding Interrogatives Method (SIM): This method uses guided questioning to enhance understanding and language use.
  2. Speech and Language Therapy:
    • Focusing on improving expressive and receptive language skills.
    • Addressing pragmatic language to enhance social communication.
  3. Occupational Therapy:
    • Helps improve fine motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living skills.
    • Can support handwriting and other school-related tasks.
  4. Social Skills Training:
    • Teaching proper social interactions.
    • Using role-playing and social stories to model behaviors.
  5. Customized Educational Plans:
    • Working with educators to create an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that addresses specific needs.
    • Incorporating visual supports and structured learning environments.

Hyperlexia Treatment and Strategies

If you notice your child being hyper-fixated on letters or words in an obsessive way, and they aren’t functionally talking, it’s important to adjust your approach:

  • Balance Exposure: While acknowledging their interest in letters and numbers, also introduce a variety of activities to broaden their experiences.
  • Focus on Comprehension: Emphasize understanding over rote reading. Ask questions about the material to enhance comprehension.
  • Language Development: Prioritize language skills by engaging in conversations, storytelling, and interactive play.
  • Professional Support: Seek guidance from speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists who can tailor interventions to your child’s needs.
  • Parental Involvement: Be actively involved in therapy sessions to reinforce strategies at home.

Stories of Hyperlexia with Mary Barbera and Lucas

My first experience with hyperlexia was with my son Lucas. He was very hyper-focused on letters but did not have the language skills to match.

I worked with an older child, Nick, who was in 6th grade at the time. During my first meeting with him, I saw him reading a passage with precision. However, he crucially lacked understanding and comprehension of the words he was reading. His reading skill was good, but his comprehension was limited.

Even though he could read very well, his VB-MAPP score was still at level two or three, meaning his language was at the skill level of a three or four-year-old.

This increased skill with words and letters led to being able to read, but his receptive language was way below where it should be for a child his age.

Another great example from my past experiences with hyperlexia was when I worked with a two-year-old who only ate gluten-free crackers and almond milk out of a bottle all day.

We used seeing the letter and holding letter puzzle pieces as reinforcers for bites of different foods and were able to change this behavior.

This strategy can be used with many different behaviors you want to change, like aversion to getting ears checked or refusal of haircuts. However, you don’t want to only expose children to letter puzzles. Exposure to animal puzzles and the shoebox program are staples of development with children.

So, You Think Your Child May Have Hyperlexia?

Know that you’re not alone, and help is available.

Your next steps for helping a child with hyperlexia include:

  • Consulting Professionals: Reach out to a pediatrician, psychologist, or speech-language pathologist who can provide a thorough evaluation.
  • Educational Resources: My book Turn Autism Around outlines how we can use hyperlexia to increase articulation and improve behaviors like eating.
  • Workshops and Courses: Attend a free workshop and enroll in my toddler/preschooler course for in-depth strategies.
  • Support Networks: Connect with other parents and professionals through forums and support groups.

In my podcast, Turn Autism Around, I share actionable strategies and delve deeper into hyperlexia and autism. I also cover related topics on my blog at marybarbera.com/blog.

Hyperlexia Frequently Asked Questions

Hyperlexia is when children display a hyperfocus on letters and advanced reading skills that exceed their age but struggle with comprehension and social skills. It is often linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affecting about 6% to 20% of children with autism.

There are three types:

  • Type I: Advanced readers who are neurotypical with no developmental delays.
  • Type II: Hyperlexia occurs in children with autism, often with a focus on letters and numbers but accompanied by social and communication challenges.
  • Type III: Initially shows signs of autism but these diminish over time, making it harder to diagnose.

Children with hyperlexia often show:

  • Advanced reading skills at a young age.
  • Difficulty with comprehension and social interaction.
  • A strong interest in letters and numbers, sometimes at the expense of other activities.

Many children with hyperlexia also have autism, though hyperlexia can exist independently. Both share traits like social and communication difficulties, and hyperlexia can sometimes be an early indicator of autism.

Interventions include:

  • The 4-step Barbera Method and use of the early learner materials and ABA/Verbal Behavior programming can be very effective for toddlers and preschoolers showing signs of hyperlexia with or without a diagnosis of autism or speech delays
  • Speech and language therapy to improve communication.
  • Occupational therapy and social skills training to address developmental challenges.
Early Signs of Hyperlexia

Hyperlexia Resources & Related Articles

Free Workshop

Increase Talking &
Decrease Tantrums

in Young Children with

Autism &/or Speech Delays

Register for Free Training