Learn about dyslexia as a genetic brain wiring difference. Discover the signs and misconceptions of dyslexia. Hear personal experiences and strategies to support dyslexic children. Reflect on grammar programs and success in English. Explore the connection between dyslexia and math. Challenge myths about dyslexia as a learning disability.
Dyslexia is a genetic brain wiring difference that affects language acquisition skills, not a learning disorder or a sign of low IQ.
Recognizing dyslexia at a young age is essential to provide systematic reading instruction.
Deep dives
Understanding Dyslexia and its Genetic Nature
Dyslexia is a genetic brain wiring difference that affects language acquisition skills. It is not a learning disorder or a sign of low IQ. Dyslexic brains process language differently, and they excel in areas like entrepreneurship and invention. Children with dyslexia often struggle with reading and spelling, have difficulty with phonics, and may exhibit reverse letters or skip words. It is crucial to acknowledge dyslexia and provide support, accommodations, and a reading-rich environment. Remediation is possible at any age, and programs like Orton-Gillingham can be effective. Accommodations such as audio books and assistive technology can also help dyslexic learners.
Importance of Early Diagnosis and Systematic Reading Instruction
Recognizing dyslexia at a young age is essential to provide systematic reading instruction. Programs like All About Reading, Logic of English, Barton, and Reading Horizons are effective for dyslexic learners. Reading aloud and creating a reading-rich environment can foster a love for stories in dyslexic children. Accommodations like audiobooks and graphic novels can also support their engagement with literature. Even for older children, it is never too late to remediate or offer accommodations. Supporting their learning and providing assistance is more important than worrying about enabling them.
Addressing Writing Challenges and Promoting Strengths
Dyslexic children often face difficulties with writing, known as dysgraphia. Using systematic writing programs can help break down the writing process into manageable steps. Graphic organizers and assistive tools can support dyslexic writers. Celebrating dyslexic strengths, such as creativity and entrepreneurship, can boost their confidence and positive self-image. Parents should offer a supportive and understanding environment, acknowledging dyslexia and the unique ways their children learn. Helping them discover their interests and teaching them how to advocate for accommodations can foster their love for learning.
Creating a Supportive Homeschool Environment
Homeschooling can be an ideal option for dyslexic children, allowing flexibility and tailored instruction. Educate yourself about dyslexia through resources like 'Dyslexia 101' by Marianne Sunderland and 'Homeschooling with Dyslexia' website. Acknowledge and discuss dyslexia with your child, emphasizing their strengths and providing accommodations like audiobooks and assistive technology. Use systematic reading and writing programs, steadily releasing responsibility to your child. Prioritize a love for stories and learning, allowing dyslexic children to follow their interests and learn at their own pace. Focus on their growth and lifelong learning.
On today’s Best of Read Aloud Revival episode, I’m replaying one of our most popular episodes.
Without fail, at every homeschool conference, at least one person comes up to me and says, “Dyslexia was not even on my radar until I listened to the episode with Marianne Sunderland.”
And that’s because most of us don’t understand what dyslexia really is and the signals to look for in our kids. And we don’t know what to do when they do show signs of having a dyslexic brain.
It’s important to remember that a dyslexic brain is not a disorder. Nothing needs to be fixed. It’s the way God made your child’s brain. And it’s genetic, so it’s the way God made your brain or your husband’s brain too.
Dyslexia means your child processes language differently, which means we need to teach dyslexic brains in a way that makes sense to dyslexic brains.
If you have any academic frustrations with your kids of any age, listen to this episode. Even if dyslexia is nowhere on your radar, I encourage you to listen. You might be surprised.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
Dispelling myths about dyslexia as a learning disability or sign of low intelligence
Signs and signals to look out for beyond difficulties with reading
How homeschooling can provide better support for dyslexic kids than traditional schools