Ways to Help Children With Dyslexia
To individuals with dyslexia, the printed word is a complex code that is excessively difficult to comprehend. Dyslexia is a neurological disorder that inhibits the sufferer's ability to properly comprehend written information. While the specific impact of dyslexia varies from person to person, children and adults who suffer from this affliction commonly struggle with overall comprehension and ability to read simple written text. Parents and teachers can assist students who suffer from dyslexia in overcoming this potentially serious academic problem by making modifications to the student's general education plan and offering accommodations to promote success.
Other People Are Reading
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Reading Often
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Children with dyslexia should engage in reading regularly. These struggling students tend to shy away from reading, as the task is difficult for them, but engaging in frequent reading is the best way for them to improve their overall reading abilities. Parents and other trusted adults can help these students cope with their disability by working with them as they read and helping them as they struggle through the written text.
Extended Time
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Because it takes them longer to decipher written works, dyslexic students commonly need extra time to complete academic assignments. Teachers can allow their dyslexic pupils to turn assignments in late or take classwork home with them to complete it. Parents can help their students complete this work at home and ensure that they return it to school so they receive credit for their efforts.
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Assistive Technology
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Books on tape, videos and other assistive technology tools make learning accessible to dyslexic students. Teachers can help these students by allowing them to listen to a recording of a text book or novel on tape instead of reading it silently. Parents can provide assistance to their students by procuring educational videos on topics that their students are learning about in class and watching them with their students. Not only do these videos make the information more clear to students, but the added exploration and focus will likely entice them to explore the subject in more depth.
Oral Instruction
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Whenever possible, instruction should be presented orally, as well as in writing, to dyslexic students. These students struggle to comprehend written directions or steps. By simply reading the instructions orally, teachers and parents can make it possible for the student to comprehend the presented information and successfully complete the task at hand.
One-on-One Tutoring
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One-on-one tutoring is not always available, but when it is, parents should take advantage of the opportunity. The more individualized attention that a dyslexic student receives, the more successful he will be in school. By working one-on-one with the student, tutors or helpful adults can identify specific areas in which he is struggling and help him improve in those areas. When tutoring is not available at school, parents may want to consider paid tutoring services to ensure their child's success.
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References
- Photo Credit reading with mum image by Renata Osinska from Fotolia.com
