Understanding the Least Dangerous Assumption The least dangerous assumption, also known as the presumption of competence, is a powerful mindset that can transform how we teach, plan, and interact with our students. This philosophy, coined in 1984, suggests that when we’re unsure about a student’s abilities, we should assume competence rather than limitations. By doing […]
Understanding the Mental and Social-Emotional Changes in Children As children grow and develop, they undergo significant mental and social-emotional changes that can be both fascinating and challenging to navigate. These changes are a natural part of their development, and it’s essential to understand what’s happening in their brains to provide the necessary support and guidance. […]
Empowering Autistic Women: Building Self-Advocacy Skills As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s essential to recognize the importance of self-advocacy skills for autistic women. Stephanie Moser, a therapist with extensive experience working with neurodivergent individuals, emphasizes the need for parents to support their daughters in developing these skills. By doing so, parents can empower their […]
Reading is Not a Natural Process Reading is an engineered process that requires intentional design and instruction. Unlike speaking, the brain is not pre-wired to decode print, and this skill must be explicitly taught. When we say reading is engineered, we mean it requires a systematic approach to instruction, rewiring the pathways connecting visual symbols […]
Understanding Interleaved Learning and Its Impact on Metacognitive Unawareness Professor David Shanks’ work on interleaved learning and its effects on metacognitive unawareness is a fascinating topic that sheds light on how we learn and remember. Interleaved learning involves presenting materials in an intermixed fashion, rather than in a blocked or sequential manner. This approach can […]
Understanding the Importance of DSA Awards for Students with Dyslexia As a student with dyslexia, it’s essential to understand the significance of DSA (Disabled Students’ Allowance) awards. These awards provide vital support and resources to help students with dyslexia and other learning differences succeed in their studies. In this episode of Dyslexia Explored, Carrie Pace […]
Understanding the Struggle: A Parent’s Journey with Their Child’s Reading Challenges As a parent, it can be heartbreaking to see your child struggle with reading, especially when their siblings or peers seem to pick it up with ease. Kelly, a homeschooling parent, shares her story of trying to help her daughter, Rey, overcome her reading […]
Understanding Dyslexia and Learning Barriers Dr. Sarah Mosley and Louise, a dyslexia specialist, share their expertise on supporting children with dyslexia and other learning barriers. They emphasize the importance of bridging theory into practice and making research accessible to parents and educators. Dr. Mosley highlights her work in reducing barriers to learning, particularly in literacy, […]
Understanding the Impact of Socioeconomic Background on Language Development Research has consistently shown that children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are exposed to fewer words and less language stimulation than their peers from higher socioeconomic backgrounds. This disparity can have a profound impact on language development and can lead to a significant gap in language skills […]
Understanding Reinforcement and Motivation in Special Education Reinforcement is a crucial aspect of special education, helping students stay motivated and build positive habits. However, it can be tricky to navigate, as it can sometimes feel like bribery or manipulation. The key is to understand that reinforcement is not about control, but about teaching cause and […]
