As a parent, discovering that your child has dyslexia can be both challenging and overwhelming. Schools may not always provide the necessary support, but with the right tools and resources, you can make a significant difference in your child’s educational journey. The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) offers valuable services and guidance that can help you navigate this path, ensuring your child reaches their full potential.
Schools may not always recognize or address dyslexia, but parents can take proactive steps to help their child succeed
The reality is that many schools may not fully understand or address the needs of students with dyslexia. Research from the BDA indicates that 80% of pupils with dyslexia leave school without a formal diagnosis. This lack of recognition can leave children without the support they need to thrive. However, as a parent, you have the power to step in and ensure your child gets the necessary assistance. By seeking out assessments and utilizing resources from organizations like the BDA, you can advocate for your child’s educational needs.
Embrace your child's unique learning style; with the right support and understanding, their dyslexia can become a powerful tool for success.
Parents can access free helplines and resources from the British Dyslexia Association to better support their children
The BDA offers a national free helpline that provides confidential, impartial advice and information for individuals with dyslexia and their supporters. This service is invaluable for parents who may be unsure about how to help their child. Whether it’s understanding the need for an assessment or seeking guidance on specific challenges, the helpline can offer the support you need. Additionally, the BDA’s website and free webinars provide a wealth of knowledge and understanding about dyslexia, empowering you to make informed decisions for your child.
80 percent of pupils with dyslexia will leave school without a formal diagnosis and part of the reason for that is that assessments are not automatically done at schools.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Parents can advocate for their child by ensuring they receive a formal assessment and the support they need in school
One of the most critical steps a parent can take is ensuring their child receives a formal assessment for dyslexia. These assessments are essential for identifying specific strengths and challenges and are the only way to formally diagnose dyslexia. The BDA provides diagnostic assessments and can help guide parents through the process. By advocating for these assessments, you can ensure your child gets the tailored support they need within the school system.
Key takeaways
- Understanding Dyslexia Positively: Recognize that dyslexia comes with many positive attributes. It's important to focus on the strengths and unique talents that children with dyslexia possess, rather than viewing it solely as a challenge. Encouraging a positive perspective can help children feel more confident and supported in their abilities.
- Accessing Support and Assessments: Ensure your child receives a formal assessment for dyslexia, which is crucial for understanding their specific needs and accessing appropriate support. Schools and local associations, such as those affiliated with the British Dyslexia Association (BDA), offer resources and can provide free assessments in some cases. Early intervention and continuous support throughout their education are vital for their success.
- Advocating for Inclusive Education: Advocate for inclusive educational practices and teacher training on dyslexia and other neurodiverse conditions. Schools should be equipped to support children with dyslexia without requiring a formal diagnosis, as good educational practice involves helping all students who need it. Encourage your school to implement dyslexia-friendly teaching methods and accommodations to ensure your child receives the education they deserve.
Parents can utilize available training and courses to better understand and assist their child with dyslexia
The BDA offers a wide range of training and courses for parents and educators. From e-learning courses to two-year programs for becoming a Dyslexia assessor or teacher, these resources can help you gain a deeper understanding of dyslexia and how to support your child effectively. By investing in your own education, you can become a more effective advocate and provide the best possible support for your child’s unique needs.
The more you are helping them for when they are older… it seems completely wrong that you can go through school and leave school and not have had that formal assessment.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Parents can overcome the challenge of dyslexia by using available tools and resources to improve their child’s life
One of the specific challenges mentioned in the transcript is Dyslexia. This condition can make reading and writing difficult, but as a parent, you have the power to overcome this challenge. By using tools like the BDA’s helpline, assessments, and training resources, you can help your child navigate their dyslexia. For instance, if your child also struggles with Dysgraphia, understanding these co-occurring differences can guide you in seeking the right support. Your proactive involvement can lead to a better life for your child, filled with success and confidence.
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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.
Your answers stay yours. We do not sell your personal information, and we do not hand identifiable assessment data to outside AI companies to train their models.
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.
