First, give yourself grace: you have not “failed” your child. Many of these challenges can be hereditary. Importantly, these challenges are not an indicator of intelligence or lack-thereof. The awesome news is that with the right educational environment and intervention, your child can absolutely unleash their full potential.  

Second, you are not alone. According to the International Dyslexia Association, “perhaps as many as 15% -20% of the population as a whole—have some of the symptoms of dyslexia”, the most common of learning differences.   (https://dyslexiaida.org/fact-sheets/)

So, what can you do?

Advocate: While you may not be an educator or reading expert, you know the most about your child.  Thus, you have permission to advocate. Stay strong and seek community as you may encounter pushback from the educational system, and even family and friends. While the prevalence of dyslexia is high, the misperceptions and fear surrounding it can be even higher.

Look for early indications

·       Before school age indicators: late talking, problems remembering letters, numbers, or colors, or difficulty learning nursery rhymes or playing rhyming games.

·       School-age indicators: difficulty spelling, avoiding reading, challenges processing what is heard, and struggles to remember the sequencing of events. Note: this goes well beyond just “letter reversals” (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dyslexia/symptoms-causes/syc-20353552)

Assess and intervene early:  Professionals can identify signs of dyslexia as early as pre-school. Research demonstrates that appropriate intervention, from kindergarten through third grade, can close the gap for those struggling to read. Know also that it is never too late to seek help! 

Brandie D’Orazio, BSN, RN

Co-founder, Head of School

The Promise School

www.promise-school.com