Children with dyslexia can have difficulty in learning and building concepts, mostly due to the challenge posed by reading with dyslexia. When helping a dyslexic child build their reading skills, and in turn be better learners, it is important to have a clear understanding of the condition and work with empathy as well as patience. Working with a dyslexic student helps them know that they are cared for, and that help is available, which builds a strong foundation for better learning. This becomes important considering the stigma associated with the condition, and mental trauma that these children have to undergo when trying to learn in a formal classroom.

The following strategies can help you understand some effective ways to help children with dyslexia:

• Start by providing a concise lesson plan of what will be taught in class, and finish with a recapitulation of the lesson. This reiteration and pre-planning can help to compartmentalize different parts of the lesson in the child’s mind, making it easy for them to keep up with what is being taught. It also helps in better retention and memory.
• Dyslexic children might get confused with a large number of options of textbooks and workbooks. It helps to limit the amount of books that are worked with. If that is not possible, then take out some time to go over the work assigned to the child with them, and ensure that they have the correct material to work with.
• Check-lists and planners are a dyslexic child’s best friend, as they can help them have a clear view of what is expected from them and work on items one thing at a time. Color-coded planners are a great idea, as they help to create a visual map in the child’s mind, minimizing the effort that they would have to put to read blocks of text.
• Multisensory learning is a highly effective strategy to help dyslexic children to improve their learning abilities. This could include the use of music, felt boards, bottle tops, marbles etc. to develop key skills in children. The goal is to keep the child engaged, while also ensuring that the purpose of learning is being achieved.
• Since reading is a major part of learning, this is one skill that requires special emphasis when helping a dyslexic child. The use of specific reading tools designed for dyslexic children can go a long way in assisting the child to tackle this challenge. It is also a good idea to start with books that have larger print and colorful illustrations, and work one-on-one with the child to ensure that they are not struggling with reading.

We, at See-N-Read Reading Tools offer a variety of reading tools. For more information, call at (630) 236 – 5592.