As a parent, discovering that your child has dyslexia can feel overwhelming. Yet, it’s important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. Schools may not always provide the support your child needs, but with the right tools and understanding, you can make a significant difference. This article aims to equip you with the knowledge and resources to help your child thrive, emphasizing the crucial role you play in their educational journey.
Understanding dyslexia is the first step in helping your child overcome reading challenges.
Dyslexia is defined as an unexpected difficulty in learning to read, affecting a child’s ability to read quickly and automatically, as well as retrieve spoken words easily. It is not a reflection of your child’s intelligence or creativity; rather, it is a specific challenge with language processing. By understanding this, you can begin to advocate for the appropriate interventions that will support your child’s unique learning needs.
Dyslexia is a brain-based learning difference, not a reflection of intelligence; early identification and tailored, multisensory instruction can unlock your child's potential.
Dyslexia is hereditary, so recognizing family history can aid in early identification and intervention.
If you or another family member struggled with reading, spelling, or writing, there is a significant chance that your child may have inherited dyslexia. Early identification is key to providing timely support. Knowing the hereditary nature of dyslexia allows you to be proactive in seeking assessments and interventions, which can prevent the development of low self-esteem and other challenges that often accompany undiagnosed dyslexia.
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 one’s creativity or ingenuity.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Common myths about dyslexia can lead to misconceptions and inadequate support, but you can dispel them.
One prevalent myth is that dyslexics see words backwards. In reality, dyslexia is an auditory processing problem, not a visual one. Another myth is that dyslexia is rare, yet it affects about 20% of the population. As a parent, you can educate those around your child, including teachers and family members, about the true nature of dyslexia to ensure they receive the understanding and support they need.
Key takeaways
- Understanding Dyslexia: Dyslexia is an unexpected difficulty in learning to read, characterized by challenges in reading fluency and retrieving spoken words. It is a hereditary condition influenced by specific genes, and early identification and intervention are crucial. Parents should be aware that dyslexia is not a vision problem but a language processing issue, affecting areas such as directionality and memory.
- Common Myths and Signs: It's important for parents to recognize common myths about dyslexia, such as the belief that dyslexics see words backward, which is incorrect. Instead, dyslexia involves auditory processing difficulties. Signs to look for include struggles with sequencing (like the alphabet or multiplication facts), spelling, pronouncing words, and tasks involving directionality (like tying shoes). Early signs can be observed as early as preschool, and understanding these can help parents advocate for their child's needs.
- Advocacy and Support: Parents should become informed advocates for their children by learning about dyslexia and related conditions, often referred to as "dyslexic sisters" (like ADHD, anxiety, and dysgraphia). They need to seek early identification and appropriate interventions, such as Orton-Gillingham-based instruction. Additionally, nurturing their child's strengths and finding a supportive community are vital for maintaining the child's self-esteem and overall well-being.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of dyslexia early can guide you in seeking the right support for your child.
Common signs include difficulty with the sequence of the alphabet, memorizing multiplication facts, and spelling. Your child might also struggle with pronouncing words, tying shoes, or learning to ride a bike. By being aware of these red flags, you can advocate for early screening and intervention, which is crucial for their academic success. Resources like the book “Overcoming Dyslexia” by Dr. Sally Shaywitz can provide valuable insights and guidance.
The earlier you know, the earlier they can get intervention, and then we can cut off some of the low self-esteem and the other pieces that may develop because of the lack of the interventions.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Overcoming challenges like dyslexia and directionality can lead to a better life for your child, with your active involvement.
Dyslexia impacts not only reading but also Directionality, which can affect your child’s ability to understand concepts like before and after, or left and right. These challenges can persist into adulthood, but with your support, your child can develop strategies to navigate them. By engaging in open conversations about dyslexia, nurturing their strengths, and seeking out specialized tutoring, you can empower your child to overcome these hurdles and thrive in their unique way.
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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.
