Using Alphabet Blocks for Dyslexia Learning
A parent shared their experience using wooden alphabet blocks to help their child with dyslexia learn letter recognition and sounds. They timed their child arranging the blocks into a rainbow pattern, completing the task within a 10-minute limit, though a few letters were incorrect. Following this, they discussed the errors and focused on vowels, exploring the sounds of ‘a’ and ‘i’ and why they are classified as vowels. This hour-long session demonstrated the effectiveness of engaging multiple senses through physical objects to reinforce learning. For parents of children with dyslexia, incorporating multi-sensory techniques like using alphabet blocks can be a valuable tool in supporting their child’s educational journey.
Michael Shanahan’s Multi-Sensory Boost for Dyslexic Kids
As a parent of a child with dyslexia, you know the unique challenges and triumphs that come with this journey. You have the power to make a significant difference in your child’s education by incorporating multi-sensory techniques, continuously learning and adapting your approach, and celebrating even the smallest victories. These insights will empower you to support your child’s learning in meaningful ways, fostering their confidence and motivation every step of the way.
“Evolving Teaching Methods for Dyslexia”
An educator reflected on the necessity of continuous learning and adaptation when working with children who have dyslexia. The educator mentioned, “I’ve had great teachers in the past, some of them not so good; they’ve all had their character traits that needed to be refined and developed.” This statement highlights the importance of evolving teaching methods based on new insights. Following a recent training session, the educator realized, “my Approach has to change when I’m working with kids who have dyslexia because of my new knowledge.” This underscores the ongoing need to adjust strategies in response to fresh information. For parents, this means actively seeking out and integrating new knowledge about dyslexia to better support their child’s educational journey.
I’m already thinking my approach has to change when I’m working with kids who have dyslexia because of my new knowledge right so it’s… I’m just trying to touch on that to on that idea of we are going to constantly have to change and grow to move with the times to cater for what is in front of us.
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Celebrating Small Learning Victories
A parent shared an uplifting moment when they saw their child at the end of the school day and asked about what he had learned. The child responded with enthusiasm, mentioning that he had learned about the vowels “a” and “i.” The parent celebrated this small achievement, responding with, “That’s brilliant, mate!” This specific instance highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating even the smallest victories in a child’s learning journey. For parents of children with dyslexia, such celebrations can significantly boost the child’s confidence and motivation, reinforcing their efforts and progress.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding and Recognizing Dyslexia: Parents should be aware that dyslexia might not be extensively covered in standard university teacher education programs. It's important for them to advocate for their child by ensuring that teachers are equipped with additional training, such as the TSD course mentioned, which focuses on structured multisensory approaches to literacy. This can help teachers better support children with dyslexia by understanding and applying evidence-based teaching methods tailored to their needs.
Importance of Evidence-Based Teaching Methods: Parents should seek out schools and educators who use evidence-based teaching practices, particularly in literacy instruction. The transcript highlights the need for teachers to be trained in explicit, structured literacy approaches that are supported by scientific research. Understanding the difference between effective and less effective teaching methods can empower parents to make informed decisions about their child's education and support.
Advocating for Comprehensive Teacher Training: Parents can play a crucial role in advocating for comprehensive teacher training that includes practical experience and a deep understanding of the English orthography. The discussion points out the variability in teacher preparedness depending on their placement and training, suggesting that parents should engage with schools to ensure that teachers have access to ongoing professional development and are supported in using the latest educational research and methodologies.
I was amazed to see that it was a 10-minute time limit that you know in that time he he completed the the rainbow for me and there were a few letters Incorrect and and we had a discussion about it… saw him at the end of the day as he was exiting the gate and I asked him what do we learn about today and he said a and I and and there some of our vows and I went that’s brilliant mate yeah like the small win.
"Taking Action
You are more capable than you realize in supporting your child with dyslexia. Start today by incorporating a multi-sensory technique, like using alphabet blocks, into your child’s learning routine. The journey ahead may have its challenges, but remember, every small win is a step toward greater confidence and success for your child. You’ve got this, and together, you and your child can achieve remarkable progress with the help of a Dyslexia Tutor.
Empower your child’s learning journey with multi-sensory techniques and continuous adaptation. Discover how the Brain Bloom System can support your child’s educational success today.
