9 things parents should know about dyslexia

To conclude our October series of articles, here are nine facts about dyslexia that parents of a child with this reading disorder should know.

1. At the end of the school day, the child may feel exhausted.

Dyslexic children's brains have to work harder to process simple letters and sounds. When your child gets home from school, give them a break before they start their homework.

 

2. A child may have easier and harder days for no explainable reason.

Sometimes it may seem that a child has learnt some sounds that he or she has been trying to remember for a long time, but then forgets them again the next day. Don't put pressure on your child - it is only through patient work that they will eventually get the results they want.

 

3. Dyslexia affects everyone in different ways.

Although dyslexia began to be studied nearly a century ago, scientists still cannot agree on a precise definition of the disorder. Reading involves more than one brain function, which is why it is so important to understand a child's strengths and weaknesses and to train them properly.

 

4. Dyslexia is not curable.

With the right help, a dyslexic child will learn to read, write and say words literally, but the dyslexia won't go away. It is a neurological disorder that also causes difficulties in everyday situations such as remembering phone numbers or understanding verbal instructions.

 

5. Children will take longer than their peers to complete reading or writing tasks.

Ask teachers how much time a pupil should spend on a particular homework task and indicate how much time your child spent on it. Teachers are more understanding than you might imagine these days - discuss how you can work together to reduce your child's homework time.

 

6. A high proportion of children with dyslexia lack self-confidence.

These children often do not do well at school, which can seriously damage their self-confidence. Parents should try to notice and praise even the smallest achievements.

 

7. Dyslexia is hereditary.

Try to remember who in your family has had this reading disability - a heart-to-heart talk with a relative who has experienced similar difficulties can give your child the confidence to believe that it is possible to learn with effort.

 

8. People with dyslexic reading disorder are often very creative.

Dyslexics are often full of ideas, musical, great actors, designers, etc.

 

9. Many people in the world have dyslexia - so there's nothing to be ashamed of!

• Dyslexia is the most common cause of reading or writing difficulties;
• Statistically, at least 1 in 10 people have dyslexia;
• More than 40 million Americans suffer from this reading disorder;
• Thanks to stubbornness and patient work, the majority of dyslexics are fully capable of finishing school and pursuing their desired careers!