From the moment a child is born, their brain begins building the neural circuits that shape how they learn, behave, and grow. These connections—most adaptable in the first three years of life—are the foundation for future success. By age eight, the brain becomes less flexible, and the opportunity for easy learning becomes harder to recapture.
This is why the early years are so critical, especially when it comes to reading. Research shows that the brain’s rapid growth and responsiveness during this time makes it the ideal window for literacy development. When kids receive the right support early, they build skills that can last a lifetime.
But when something doesn’t feel right—when your child isn’t picking up letters, struggling with rhyming, or avoids books—it’s easy to hope things will just “click.” The truth is, many families are told to “wait and see.” But waiting can come at a high cost.
Dyslexia and other language-based learning differences are rooted in how the brain processes information. These differences can often be identified before a child even starts kindergarten. And the sooner we act, the easier it is to intervene. In fact, it can take four times longer to address reading challenges in fourth grade than it does in kindergarten. Why? Because as the brain matures, it becomes less malleable—and the academic demands increase dramatically.
The message is clear: early action works. And if your instincts are telling you something is off, listen to them.
At The Highlands School, we specialize in supporting bright students with language-based learning differences like dyslexia, ADHD, and executive functioning challenges. We believe in early identification, targeted intervention, and the power of personalized education.
Don’t wait and see. Trust your gut—and reach out.
We’re here to talk, to listen, and to help.