How Does Reading Development Start?

In this episode, Susan Lambert joins Dr. Nadine Gaab to discuss dyslexia and the developmental progression of the brain and behavior of students as they learn to read. Dr. Gaab, an Associate Professor of Education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, focuses on both typical and atypical learning trajectories from infancy to adulthood, with a special emphasis on language and reading development and the role of the environment in shaping these trajectories. In this episode, Dr. Gaab provides further insight into these developmental trajectories as they relate to early intervention for at-risk students. She differentiates between early diagnosis of dyslexia versus early identification of at-risk students. Adding nuance and complexity to the discussion of dyslexia, Dr. Gaab emphasizes the ways educators can ensure that all students experience the joy of learning to read.

Quote:
“We want to make sure that we find everyone who is struggling with learning to read and make sure that everyone gets to experience the joy of learning to read.“ —Dr. Nadine Gaab

Show Notes:

Gaab Lab website 

Gaab Lab - myths about dyslexia , by Nadine Gaab 

National Center for Improving Literacy

Video - How the brain learns to read by Nadine Gaab 

Tracing the Roots of Language and Literacy

Reading to Rewire