Tips for Supporting a Child with Dyslexia at Home

Over the past few years, we have learned a lot of tips for supporting a child with dyslexia at home. Through various therapies, technology supports, and IEP meetings, I wanted to share more information that we have learned and what has made the difference for our daughter who has dyslexia who is now thriving in school.

Our story with Dyslexia

When I was in the second grade, I was evaluated and diagnosed with “borderline dyslexia.” I don’t think it was really understood much in the 1990s. I know that I wrote a few letters and numbers backwards for years and was never a very strong reader. I think I received reading help once or twice a week for a year, but that’s really all I remember.

Thankfully, I made okay grades and graduated with a master’s degree in Speech Pathology. The school that I went to didn’t really put a lot of emphasis on dyslexia and really just focused on teaching reading through reading more books and exposure.

Then I had a daughter who really struggled learning to read.

We hired tutors, bought extra reading apps and games – everything was just so much harder when it came to reading. Our speech therapist recommended that we should probably go through the process to get her evaluated for dyslexia. A lot of her story was dragged on because this happened over 2020-2022 as you can remember it was a crazy time and there were endless wait-lists. However, we did finally get our diagnosis and she qualified for more therapy and support after that.

Signs and Symptoms of Dyslexia: How to Recognize Them in Your Child

As parents, we’re always on the lookout for signs that our children might need a little extra support, especially when it comes to their learning and development. Let’s chat about dyslexia and how to recognize the signs and symptoms in your child.

Dyslexia is more common than you might think, affecting around 1 in 10 people worldwide. It’s a learning difference that primarily impacts reading, spelling, and writing skills. While dyslexia manifests differently in each child, there are some common signs and symptoms to keep an eye out for:

1. Difficulty with Phonemic Awareness: Does your child struggle to recognize and manipulate sounds in words? Difficulty with phonemic awareness, such as rhyming and segmenting sounds, is a hallmark sign of dyslexia.
2. Reading Challenges: Is reading a struggle for your child, despite their best efforts? Dyslexic children often have difficulty with decoding words, recognizing sight words, and reading fluently. They may read slowly, stumble over words, or have trouble comprehending what they’ve read.
3. Spelling Difficulties: Does your child have trouble spelling words correctly, even simple ones? Dyslexia can make it challenging to understand the relationship between sounds and letters, leading to frequent spelling errors.
4. Writing Challenges: Does your child avoid writing tasks or express frustration when asked to write? Dyslexia can affect writing skills, making it difficult to organize thoughts, spell words correctly, and express ideas coherently on paper.
5. Memory and Sequencing Issues: Does your child struggle to remember information, follow directions, or recall sequences of events? Dyslexia can impact working memory and sequencing skills, making it challenging to retain and process information.

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms in your child, it’s essential to seek further evaluation from a qualified professional, such as a pediatrician, psychologist, or educational specialist. Early identification and intervention are key to providing the support and resources your child needs to succeed.

Remember, every child is unique, and dyslexia is just one aspect of who they are. With love, patience, and the right support, your child can overcome any challenges they may face and thrive in their own time and way.

Dispelling Dyslexia Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction

I want to take a moment to shine a light on some common myths and misconceptions surrounding dyslexia. If you don’t know much about dyslexia, it’s time to separate fact from fiction and set the record straight!

Myth #1: Dyslexia is a sign of low intelligence.

Fact: This couldn’t be further from the truth! Dyslexia has nothing to do with intelligence. In fact, many dyslexic individuals are incredibly intelligent and talented in various areas, such as creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

Myth #2: Dyslexia only affects reading.

Fact: While dyslexia is primarily associated with reading difficulties, it can also impact other areas, such as spelling, writing, math, and organization skills. Dyslexia is a complex learning difference that affects individuals differently and can manifest in various ways.

Myth #3: Dyslexia can be outgrown with time.

Fact: Dyslexia is a lifelong condition that doesn’t go away with age. However, with proper support, intervention, and accommodations, individuals with dyslexia can learn to manage their challenges and achieve academic and professional success.

Myth #4: Dyslexia is caused by laziness or lack of effort.

Fact: Dyslexia is a neurobiological condition with roots in brain differences that affect how individuals process language. It has nothing to do with laziness or lack of effort. Dyslexic individuals often work harder than their peers to overcome reading challenges.

Myth #5: Dyslexia is rare.

Fact: Dyslexia is actually quite common, affecting around 1 in 10 people worldwide. Chances are, you know someone with dyslexia, whether it’s a family member, friend, or colleague.

By dispelling these myths and educating ourselves and others about dyslexia, we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for dyslexic individuals. Remember, knowledge is power, and together, we can break down barriers and celebrate the strengths and talents of all children, regardless of their learning differences.

The Importance of Early Intervention for Dyslexia: What Moms Should Know

Early intervention is so crucial when it comes to supporting children with dyslexia. As parents, we play a vital role in recognizing the signs and symptoms of dyslexia and advocating for our children’s needs.

1. Identifying Dyslexia Early: The earlier dyslexia is identified, the sooner children can receive the support and resources they need to succeed. By recognizing the signs and symptoms of dyslexia in our children, we can take proactive steps to address their challenges and provide targeted interventions.

2. Building a Strong Foundation: Early intervention lays the groundwork for future academic success. By addressing reading difficulties early on, we can help children develop essential literacy skills, such as phonemic awareness, phonics, and decoding, which are critical for reading proficiency.

3. Boosting Confidence and Self-Esteem: Early intervention can help prevent feelings of frustration, anxiety, and low self-esteem that often accompany untreated dyslexia. By providing support and encouragement, we can empower our children to overcome challenges, build confidence in their abilities, and develop a positive attitude toward learning.

4. Accessing Resources and Support: Early intervention opens doors to a wide range of resources and support services for children with dyslexia and their families. From specialized reading programs and assistive technology to educational accommodations and therapy services, there are many tools available to help children with dyslexia thrive.

5. Advocating for Your Child: As moms, we are our children’s biggest advocates. By understanding the importance of early intervention for dyslexia and advocating for our children’s needs, we can ensure they receive the support, resources, and accommodations necessary to succeed academically and beyond.

By recognizing the importance of early intervention for dyslexia and taking proactive steps to support our children, we can set them on the path to success and empower them to reach their full potential.

Navigating the School System: Advocating for Your Child with Dyslexia

I want to dive into a topic that’s close to my heart: advocating for our children with dyslexia within the school system. As parents, we play a crucial role in ensuring that our children receive the support and accommodations they need to succeed academically and thrive. I was really nervous if my child would get the support she needed in school, and honestly I was so surprised at the support she has and is receiving through her team.

1. Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations that protect the rights of children with dyslexia, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. These laws guarantee that children with dyslexia are entitled to a free and appropriate education that meets their individual needs.

2. Communicate with Teachers and School Staff: Establish open and ongoing communication with your child’s teachers, school administrators, and support staff. Share information about your child’s strengths, challenges, and any accommodations or interventions that have been helpful in the past. Collaboration and teamwork are key to ensuring that your child receives the support they need to succeed.

3. Request an Evaluation: If you suspect that your child may have dyslexia or other learning differences, don’t hesitate to request an evaluation from the school. This comprehensive assessment will help identify your child’s strengths and weaknesses and determine the appropriate supports and services they need to thrive.

4. Develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan: Work with your child’s school team to develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan that outlines specific accommodations, modifications, and goals to support your child’s learning needs. Be proactive in advocating for the accommodations and services that will best support your child’s success.

5. Stay Informed and Empowered: Stay informed about your child’s progress, rights, and available resources. Attend school meetings, workshops, and support groups for parents of children with dyslexia. By staying informed and empowered, you can effectively advocate for your child and ensure they receive the support they need to thrive.

Remember, moms, you are your child’s biggest advocate. By partnering with your child’s school team, staying informed, and advocating for their needs, you can help ensure that your child receives the support, resources, and accommodations necessary to succeed academically and beyond.

Building Confidence in Your Child with Dyslexia: Strategies for Success

One thing that is often overlooked is how to build confidence in our children with dyslexia. As parents, we play a crucial role in helping our children embrace their strengths, overcome challenges, and develop a positive attitude toward learning.

1. Focus on Strengths: Celebrate your child’s unique strengths and talents, whether it’s creativity, problem-solving, or thinking outside the box. Help them recognize that dyslexia is just one aspect of who they are and that they have many valuable qualities to offer.

2. Set Realistic Goals: Encourage your child to set realistic and achievable goals for themselves. Break tasks down into manageable steps and celebrate each small victory along the way. By setting and achieving goals, your child will build confidence in their abilities and develop a growth mindset.

3. Provide Positive Reinforcement: Offer plenty of praise and encouragement to your child, especially when they demonstrate effort, persistence, and resilience. Focus on their efforts and progress, rather than solely on outcomes. Let them know that you believe in them and that you’re proud of their hard work.

4. Foster a Growth Mindset: Teach your child that mistakes are a natural part of learning and that failure is not a reflection of their intelligence or worth. Encourage them to view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Help them develop resilience and a positive attitude toward overcoming obstacles.

5. Advocate for Support: Advocate for your child’s needs and ensure they have access to the support, resources, and accommodations they need to succeed academically and beyond. Whether it’s specialized reading programs, assistive technology, or educational accommodations, make sure your child has the tools they need to thrive.

6. Lead by Example: Model confidence, perseverance, and a positive attitude toward challenges in your own life. Show your child that setbacks are temporary and that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. By leading by example, you’ll inspire your child to believe in themselves and their abilities.

Remember, moms, you are your child’s biggest cheerleader. By nurturing their strengths, setting realistic goals, providing positive reinforcement, advocating for support, and leading by example, you can help build confidence in your child with dyslexia and empower them to reach their full potential.

Celebrating Strengths: How Dyslexia Can Be a Gift

Something that commonly goes unnoticed is the unique strengths and talents of our dyslexic children. While dyslexia presents its own set of challenges, it also brings with it a host of strengths and gifts that deserve to be celebrated.

1. Creativity: Many dyslexic individuals possess exceptional creativity and imagination. Their ability to think outside the box, connect ideas in novel ways, and approach problems from different angles can lead to innovative thinking and groundbreaking discoveries.

2. Problem-Solving Skills: Dyslexic individuals often excel at problem-solving and thinking critically. They have a knack for finding creative solutions to complex problems and thinking on their feet. Their ability to think divergently and see the big picture can be a valuable asset in many areas of life.

3. Resilience: Living with dyslexia requires resilience and perseverance. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, dyslexic individuals often demonstrate remarkable resilience and determination. They learn to overcome obstacles, adapt to new situations, and bounce back from failure with grace and resilience.

4. Empathy: Many dyslexic individuals are highly empathetic and compassionate. They have a deep understanding of what it’s like to struggle and face adversity, which makes them sensitive to the needs and feelings of others. Their empathy and compassion can make them wonderful friends, caregivers, and advocates for change.

5. Unique Perspective: Dyslexic individuals often have a unique perspective on the world. Their ability to see things differently, question the status quo, and challenge conventional thinking can lead to new insights and breakthroughs in various fields. Their fresh perspective can inspire others and drive positive change.

As moms, it’s important for us to recognize and celebrate the strengths and gifts of our dyslexic children. By nurturing their creativity, encouraging their problem-solving skills, fostering their resilience, and embracing their unique perspective, we can help them thrive and reach their full potential. So let’s celebrate the amazing gifts that dyslexia brings and empower our children to shine bright!

More Resources

The Best Apps for Dyslexia

Speechify – Text to Speech Reader

Virtual Milestone Academy (Megan and I went to graduate school together!)

More Sight Word Help:

Sight Word Game:

Sight Word Practice