As a parent of a child with dyslexia, you may feel overwhelmed by the challenges your child faces in school and everyday life. It’s important to understand that while schools may not always provide the support your child needs, you have the power to make a significant difference. With the right tools and strategies, you can help your child overcome the hurdles of dyslexia and thrive.
Understanding that dyslexia can be a tool for success, not just a challenge, is crucial for parents
Dyslexia, often seen as a barrier, can actually be a powerful tool for success. Gerard Blan, a dyslexic individual who has achieved remarkable feats, including running seven marathons on seven continents in seven days, exemplifies this. He found that dyslexia allowed him to connect things in unique ways, a skill that proved invaluable in his professional life as the chief of staff for football at the University of Texas. As a parent, understanding this perspective can help you reframe dyslexia as an opportunity for your child to develop unique strengths.
For parents of dyslexic children: Embrace their interests as learning tools; what they love can unlock their potential and make education more engaging.
Encouraging physical activity can help manage the frustrations of dyslexia
Physical activity can be a vital tool for managing the frustrations associated with dyslexia. Gerard Blan shared how running helped him escape the stresses of school and even solve math problems he struggled with. Encouraging your child to engage in sports or other physical activities can provide them with a healthy outlet for their energy and a way to clear their mind, potentially enhancing their focus and academic performance.
I think there’s some science behind it… like it’s going for walks or movement or kind of that meditation flow can allow ourselves that opportunity to kind of reconnect and then recalibrate and then come back in from maybe doing something that I didn’t feel was kind of in my wheelhouse to being then able to to do it.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Providing personalized support through tutoring and accommodations is essential for academic success
Gerard Blan emphasized the importance of personalized support in his educational journey. He benefited greatly from tutoring, extra time on tests, and having a note-taker in college. As a parent, you can advocate for similar accommodations for your child and seek out Dyslexia Tutor services to provide tailored support. These resources can help your child navigate their academic challenges more effectively.
Key takeaways
- Utilize Interests as Learning Tools: Encourage children to engage with their passions, such as sports or video games, to facilitate learning. For instance, if a child enjoys video games, parents can help them read about new games or related topics, turning their interest into an educational opportunity. This approach can make learning more enjoyable and less stressful for children with dyslexia.
- Incorporate Movement and Breaks: Physical activity, like running or walking, can be a powerful tool for children with dyslexia. It can help them clear their minds and improve focus when returning to academic tasks. Parents should encourage regular breaks and movement, such as setting a timer to take a short walk or switch tasks, to enhance concentration and problem-solving abilities.
- Leverage Assistive Technology and Accommodations: It's crucial for parents to explore and utilize assistive technologies and accommodations that can help their child succeed. Tools like audiobooks, reader pens, and dyslexia-specific fonts can make a significant difference. Additionally, accommodations such as extra time on tests or having a note-taker in class can support their learning without compromising their output. Encouraging the use of these resources can help children with dyslexia perform at their best.
Leveraging technology and other tools can enhance learning and independence for children with dyslexia
Technology and other assistive tools can be game-changers for children with dyslexia. Gerard Blan found success with audiobooks, reader pens, and the dyslexia font. Encouraging your child to explore different technologies, such as those offered by a Dyslexia Tutor , can help them find what works best for them. As a parent, you can play a crucial role in helping your child discover and utilize these resources to enhance their learning experience.
There is there’s truly an advantage when you find what it is you enjoy doing because let’s say reading is a challenge… build the reading around the video game teach you know like make the video game the thing and then okay I want you to read about the newest game coming out.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Overcoming the challenge of dyslexia involves finding and nurturing your child’s passions
One of the most significant challenges of dyslexia is the potential impact on a child’s self-esteem and motivation. Gerard Blan highlighted the importance of finding what your child loves and building learning around those interests. As a parent, you can play a pivotal role in helping your child discover their passions, whether it’s video games, sports, or art, and use these as a foundation for learning. It’s also crucial to be aware of other learning difficulties such as Dyscalculia that might coexist with dyslexia. By doing so, you can help your child overcome the challenges of dyslexia and pave the way for a fulfilling and successful life.
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Your school district must evaluate your child free of charge if you ask in writing, whatever your income and whatever the outcome (US, 34 CFR 300.111 and 300.301(b)). That route takes time and answers a different question than you do. This one starts today, from what you already know.
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A screener is a starting point, not a diagnosis. If your child might need formal accommodations (an IEP or 504 plan), or you suspect a vision, hearing or medical cause, pursue a professional evaluation too. That is the only route to those supports.
