What To Do If Your Child Is Diagnosed With Dyslexia?

Let’s say you are a working mom and already find it hard to manage both, your job and home. You conclude that though you put a lot of efforts in your kid’s studies, the results are not satisfactory. When you consult your doctor, he runs some tests and gives you the shocking news that your son has been diagnosed with dyslexia. Now, what will be your future course of action?

What is dyslexia?

It is a specific learning disability in education. Children who have dyslexia have trouble reading accurately and fluently. They also experience difficulty in reading comprehension, spelling, and writing. If your kid has a particular difficulty in learning math, it is called dyscalculia. The kids may have trouble understanding number related concepts or using functions or symbols needed for success in mathematics. Some 20%-60% of children with dyslexia can also suffer from dyscalculia.

So what are you going to do?

Here are a few things you can keep in mind that will help you and your child in dealing with dyslexia

Learn all you can, about dyslexia
Find out how the brain works in kids with dyslexia. Understanding your child’s challenges is the key to help him with his struggles.

Enquire about dyslexia treatments
Talk to your doctor about therapy and treatment options. You may need a reading specialist or a speech-language pathologist.

Talk with your child’s teacher
Schedule a meeting with your kid’s teacher and ask about any support programs that might be helpful such as the assistive technology like the text-to-speech software.

Talk to your child about dyslexia
Talk gently to your child about dyslexia and help him understand how dyslexia might affect him in certain areas, including social life.

Understand the emotional impact
Kids with learning and attention issues may have a higher risk of anxiety and depression. Talk to your child’s doctor if you have any concerns.

Learn what you can do at home
Learn ways to build his self-esteem and help him stay motivated. Look for fun ways to encourage reading and writing outside of school. Create a homework space that works best for your child. Tap into his interests and use his strengths.

Find support
Find support centers near you and connect with other parents and children with dyslexia in your community.

Keep in touch with teachers
Stay in touch with your ward’s teachers. It can keep you on the same page whether his support and services are working. Learn about multisensory instruction which helps struggling readers.

Tell your child that dyslexia doesn’t define him
Watch movies that feature dyslexia along with your child. Know more about dyslexia success stories. Let your kid know that his reading issues don’t define who he is or what he can do.

If you suspect your child may have dyslexia, then take this free online test.

Swarnam John is an experienced health and wellness writer. She writes the blog healthyhomosapien. She is also a contributor to a couple of prestigious online magazines.