As a parent of a child with dyslexia, it can be challenging to navigate the complexities of supporting their reading development. Schools may not always provide the tailored assistance needed, but as a parent, you have the power to make a significant difference. With the right tools and strategies at your disposal, you can help your child overcome reading difficulties and foster a love for learning.
Understanding that relaxation is key to effective learning can transform your child’s reading experience
Fazia Jan, a reading recovery teacher, emphasizes the importance of creating a stress-free environment for your child when they are learning to read. She explains that anxiety can reduce access to working memory, which is already a challenge for children with dyslexia. By maintaining a relaxed and positive atmosphere, you can help your child feel more at ease and improve their reading fluency. This involves not only your own demeanor but also ensuring that the learning environment is calm and supportive.
For parents of dyslexic children: Keep sessions relaxed, model fluent reading, and let your child choose books that interest them to make reading enjoyable and stress-free.
Modeling fluent reading can provide your child with a valuable example to follow
One effective strategy is to model fluent reading for your child. Fazia suggests that by reading aloud and demonstrating how to pause at commas and stop at full stops, you can show your child what fluent reading sounds like. This approach helps them understand the rhythm and flow of reading, reducing the pressure they might feel when reading on their own. Shared reading sessions where you take turns can also be beneficial, as it allows your child to practice and build confidence.
It’s really important that when any you anytime you do any reading or supporting any child with the reading it’s as stress-free as possible.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Encouraging interest-led learning can make reading a pleasurable experience for your child
Choosing books that align with your child’s interests can significantly enhance their engagement and enjoyment of reading. Fazia stresses that reading is not just about decoding words but also about understanding and enjoying the content. Allowing your child to select books that captivate their curiosity can make the learning process more enjoyable and less of a chore. It’s also important to recognize that it’s okay not to finish a book if it no longer holds their interest.
Key takeaways
- Create a Relaxed Environment: It's crucial for parents to ensure a stress-free and relaxed atmosphere when helping their child with reading. Anxiety can significantly reduce a child's access to working memory, which is often already challenged in dyslexic children. By maintaining a calm and supportive environment, parents can help their child feel more at ease, thereby enhancing their reading experience and learning process.
- Model Fluent Reading: Parents should demonstrate fluent reading by reading aloud to their child. This modeling helps children understand what fluent reading sounds like, including pausing at commas and stopping at full stops. By hearing fluent reading, children can mimic the pace and intonation, which can improve their own reading fluency and comprehension. If parents struggle with reading themselves, using audio recordings or other fluent readers can be beneficial.
- Encourage Interest-Led Learning: Allow children to choose books that interest them. Reading materials that capture a child's interest can increase motivation and enjoyment, making the learning process more effective. It's important not to force completion of a book if the child loses interest; instead, encourage them to explore different genres and topics that they find engaging. This approach helps maintain a positive attitude towards reading and supports long-term literacy development.
Utilizing technology can provide additional support and flexibility in your child’s reading journey
Fazia highlights the importance of using technology as a tool to aid reading. For children who struggle with Dyslexia, audiobooks and other technological resources can be invaluable. They allow your child to access content without the pressure of decoding every word, which can be particularly helpful for maintaining interest and comprehension. Encouraging the use of technology does not replace traditional reading but complements it, offering a more rounded approach to learning.
If you are relaxed and you are enjoying something okay you are seeing the positive in things your child will enjoy it.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Overcoming the challenge of poor visual memory can lead to a more confident and successful reader
One of the specific challenges associated with dyslexia is poor Visual Memory, which can make it difficult for children to recognize and remember words. As a parent, your role is crucial in helping your child overcome this obstacle. By consistently practicing short, fun activities that reinforce the alphabetical principle, such as using magnetic letters or cards, you can help strengthen their visual memory. This practice, coupled with a supportive and patient approach, can lead to a positive outcome, enabling your child to become a more confident and successful reader.
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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.
