Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Dyslexia and How Your Child Can Succeed in School.

This article was found in the UT San Diego on October 7, 2014.  Written by Erinn Hutkin.

Dyslexia is a very common learning problem affecting  about 1 in 5 children at school.  Dyslexia really means there is a problem with reading.  Usually students have poor reading abilities and poor decoding skills.  Children in the classroom know something is wrong and become frustrated with school.  There is no cure but there are work arounds.

Dyslexia has a genetic connection so if parents had a hard time reading, or grandparents had  a hard time learning to read, have your child tested.  Dyslexia is not just reversing letters.  Usually students just have a hard time learning sounds.  Sometimes that can tell you the sound a letter makes but can't blend it together to make a word.

The best way to help is a multi-sensory approach for reading.  Small groups or one to one learning is best.  Certain extras at school are helpful such as "preferential seating, extra time on tests, audio books, spell checkers or note takers".  Your child might need extra help with emotional support and also support in an area where they can succeed and feel great about themselves.