Understanding Dyslexia and How to Support your Child

Dyslexia, a word that carries a significant weight in the world of education, is far more than just a term; it's a specific learning difficulty that can shape a child's educational journey in profound ways. Recognising dyslexia, understanding what it entails, and knowing how to provide support are critical steps that can make a world of difference for children and their families. In this editorial, we explore what dyslexia is, its indicators, and effective strategies that parents and educators can employ to help these students thrive.

Unravelling Dyslexia

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, one word stands as both a challenge and an opportunity: dyslexia. Dyslexia, at its core, is a neurodivergence that primarily affects a child or young person's ability to develop reading and writing skills. Many people will be familiar with the term and be aware of some typical traits such as forming letters the wrong way round or struggling to grasp spellings. However, its reach extends far beyond the written word. To truly grasp the implications of dyslexia, it's essential to recognise that it is far more than an isolated word on a diagnostic report. It's a profound experience that touches every aspect of a child's life, from their early steps in literacy to their aspirations for the future.

Understanding dyslexia, comprehending its multifaceted nature, and discovering how to offer unwavering support are not just significant steps; they are transformative acts of empowerment for both the children facing this journey and their families.

Embracing Neurodiversity

Dyslexia is often embraced within the framework of neurodiversity, which recognises the wide range of differences in individual brain function and behavioural traits. Importantly, neurodiversity regards these differences as a natural and vital part of the human population. Dyslexia is not a deficiency or disadvantage; it's simply a unique way of processing information and engaging with the world. So often children become embarrassed or self conscious when they are diagnosed with Dyslexia, and for those without a diagnosis, this inability to learn in the same way as their peers in the classroom can be a big blow to their confidence and self-esteem; resulting in further disengagement.

Detecting the Signs

Many people are never diagnosed, and the indicators of dyslexia can vary depending on a child's age and stage of development. Early signs in preschool-aged children may include delayed speech development, difficulties constructing sentences, and a limited understanding of rhyme. As they progress into primary school, difficulties may emerge in learning letter names and sounds, spelling, distinguishing between similar-looking letters ('b' and 'd'), and organising sequences such as the alphabet, days of the week, or months of the year. Handwriting struggles, working memory issues, and poor phonological awareness (understanding the sounds within words) may also surface.

For teenagers and adults, dyslexia can manifest as poorly expressed written work, challenges in planning and writing essays or letters, difficulties in exam preparation, spelling issues, and the need for support in remembering information and meeting deadlines.

Empowering Dyslexic Learners

Parents and educators play a pivotal role in supporting children with dyslexia. Here are strategies that can make a substantial difference in the classroom:

1. Multisensory Learning Techniques: Engage students with methods that stimulate multiple senses, including touch, sight, and hearing. Often children benefit from using coloured overlays or reading rulers to help focus. Repetition is a powerful tool for reinforcing word recognition and comprehension.

2. Harnessing Assistive Technology: Leverage technology, such as word processing programs equipped with spell checkers and autocorrect functions, to aid in writing and spelling. You can also utilise reading pens for help with tests and exams.

3. Task Breakdown and Visual Supports: Divide assignments or tasks into smaller, more manageable steps (Chunking) and implement task plans and visual timetables to support organisational skills.

4. Nurturing a Growth Mindset: Cultivate a growth mindset by emphasising that intelligence can be developed through effort and practice. Focus on their strengths and unique talents, help students recognise their areas of strength and help them develop skills and strategies to utilise this to maximise learning and development.

5. Providing Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate their successes and their determination to overcome challenges. Offer encouragement and praise for their efforts, regardless of the scale or outcome.

6. Professional Guidance: If dyslexia is suspected, seek guidance from educational professionals or specialists who can offer tailored assessments and support plans.

Understanding dyslexia and implementing effective strategies can unlock the potential of children with dyslexia, allowing them to flourish both academically and personally. If these difficulties are not identified and addressed at an early stage, children can become demotivated and their self-esteem and confidence can be damaged. With early identification we can support children in reaching their full potential and dealing with the inevitable frustration when they compare themselves with their peers. It's crucial to recognise that dyslexia is but one facet of a child's unique neurodiversity. By embracing their differences and providing the necessary support, we empower them to embark on their journey toward success and self-discovery.

If you would like to explore support for your child get in touch and one of our Education Consultants will be happy to discuss your child's unique learning styles and goals.