What is the Difference Between Cross-Dominance vs. Dyslexia?

Various learning differences have overlapping symptoms, and when this happens,
misdiagnoses occur more frequently. Cross-dominance and dyslexia are two such
conditions that may share similarities but are extremely different and require unique
plans for every student.

Cross-dominance is also known as mixed laterality or mixed-handedness. This
condition is a motor skill difference diagnosed when children use different hands, feet or
eyes for different tasks. For instance, a child with cross-dominance may write with their
right hand but prefer using their left hand for throwing a baseball. [It’s important to note
that someone may write with their left hand and throw with their right hand and not be
diagnosed with cross-dominance.]

Teachers and parents need to actively observe the child’s behavior during various tasks,
noting inconsistencies in their hand, foot and eye usage if they truly have concerns.
Consulting with an occupational therapist will help confirm the presence of
cross-domination and establish a therapy plan for them.

According to the Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity, “dyslexia is an unexpected
difficulty in learning to read. Dyslexia takes away an individual’s ability to read quickly
and automatically, and to retrieve spoken words easily, but it does not dampen their
creativity and ingenuity.” Dyslexia presents a distinct set of symptoms, including
difficulty with phonological awareness and experiencing challenges in reading
comprehension.

Identifying cross-domination, dyslexia, or any learning difference is essential to provide
the appropriate support. It can be challenging when these preferences are not be
immediately apparent because they require different approaches to intervention.
Misdiagnoses can lead to ineffective strategies and delay any student’s success.
Recognizing the distinctions between cross-domination and dyslexia is crucial for
providing appropriate support to children with these learning differences.

By fostering understanding and awareness, we create an inclusive learning environment
that caters to the unique needs of every student at Dyslexia School of Houston. For
more tips and tools for children with dyslexia, follow us on social media
@dyslexiaschoolhtx.