Dyslexia Support

Supporting Students With Dyslexia

If your child has been diagnosed with dyslexia, it is important for you to be involved school supports for your child. Every child has a right to a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).

What Does Dyslexia Support Look Like?

Inclusive education is all about providing equal opportunities for every student to thrive, regardless of their unique learning needs. Students diagnosed with Dyslexia may require additional supports, accommodations or modification to access the same educational opportunities as their peers.

Dyslexia is a learning disorder that affects a person’s ability to read effectively. To ensure academic success and foster a positive learning environment, it is crucial for schools to implement appropriate supports for  students. In this blog entry, we will explore some common accommodations that a parent may want to consider for their student when working with their school team in creating a support system, 504 plan or IEP. 

Assistive Technology

Assistive technology can play a vital role in helping students with dyslexia overcome reading challenges. Text-to-speech software, color overlay, or highlighting strips are some examples of assistive technology tools that can be used.

These tools enable students to access information more efficiently, improving their reading fluency and comprehension.

Extended Time

One of the most essential accommodations for students with dyslexia is providing extended time for assignments, exams, or class activities.

Dyslexic students may require extra time to process information, decode words, or organize their thoughts. By allowing them ample time, schools can give these students a fair chance to demonstrate their knowledge and skills without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Alternative Formats

Offering alternative formats of instructional materials can significantly aid students with dyslexia.

Providing digital copies of textbooks, handouts, and other materials allows students to utilize text-to-speech software or enlarge text size for easier reading.

Similarly, auditory recordings of classroom lectures or audio notes can be helpful in reinforcing learning.

Multi-Sensory Instruction

Implementing multi-sensory teaching strategies is beneficial for students with dyslexia as they often learn best through a combination of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic approaches.

Teachers can incorporate techniques like utilizing visual aids, incorporating music or rhythm into lessons, and encouraging hands-on activities to reinforce learning and improve memory retention.

Preferential Seating

Strategic seating arrangements can make a significant difference for students with dyslexia. Placing these students near the front of the classroom, away from distractions, can help them focus and minimize potential visual or auditory disturbances that could hinder their learning experience.

Additionally, allowing flexibility in seating arrangements to accommodate individual preferences can enhance student engagement and comfort.

Explicit Instruction

Providing explicit instruction that focuses on decoding, phonics, and vocabulary skills is essential for students with dyslexia.

Offering structured and systematic teaching methods can help these students grasp language patterns more effectively.

Breaking down complex concepts into smaller, manageable steps and providing ample practice opportunities fosters meaningful learning experiences.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating appropriate accommodations for students with dyslexia is crucial for their academic success and overall well-being.

By implementing assistive technology, granting extended time, offering alternative formats, incorporating multi-sensory instruction, providing preferential seating, and delivering explicit instruction, schools can create an inclusive educational environment where students with dyslexia can thrive.

Remember, every child is unique, and it is crucial to tailor accommodations based on individual needs.

Through collaboration, empathy, and support, educators should ensure that every student, including those with dyslexia, receives equitable educational opportunities.

If you want some support in making sure your child with Dyslexia receives all the supports they need to succeed, please call me to discuss their situation.