Hyperlexia is a condition where children exhibit advanced reading skills at an unusually early age, typically well before formal schooling begins. The age at which hyperlexia becomes noticeable can vary, but here’s a breakdown of how it often presents itself across different age groups:
#### **Typical Age of Onset**
- **Around 18 months to 2 years**: Many children with hyperlexia start to show signs of advanced reading skills as early as 18 months old. They may begin identifying letters, numbers, and words far earlier than their peers. Parents often notice that their child can read words they’ve never been taught, a clear indication of hyperlexia.
- **By 3 to 4 years**: By this age, most hyperlexic children can read fluently, often displaying reading abilities well beyond what’s expected for their age group. At this point, they may be able to read entire sentences or even books.
#### **Developmental Stages of Hyperlexia**
- **Early Years (18 months to 4 years)**: Children with hyperlexia may be able to read words but might not fully understand their meaning. Their reading skills are typically much more advanced than their ability to comprehend what they're reading.
- **Preschool and Kindergarten Age (4 to 6 years)**: As they approach kindergarten, hyperlexic children continue to excel in reading but may lag in other areas, such as verbal communication, social skills, or comprehension.
#### **Comparison to Peers**
Hyperlexic children’s reading abilities often stand out because they are reading at levels typical for children several years older. For example, a 3-year-old hyperlexic child might read at a first or second-grade level.
#### **When to Seek Support**
If your child is showing advanced reading skills at an early age, it’s essential to monitor other developmental aspects, such as language comprehension, social skills, and communication. Engaging with a specialist, such as a speech therapist or developmental pediatrician, can help assess whether your child's early reading is a sign of hyperlexia and if they need additional support in other areas.
### Conclusion
Hyperlexia can manifest as early as 18 months and is most commonly identified between ages 2 to 4. Understanding the developmental stages of hyperlexia can help parents and educators provide the appropriate support needed for these early readers to thrive.
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