learn. “Early intervention or additional direct instruction should begin as early as kindergarten or first grade for struggling readers when the gap is small and students benefit from brain plasticity advantages for learning language-based information,” the IDA recommends. When you first notice your child’s struggles, be proactive in advocating for them to get the resources they need. DYSLEXIA REFRAMED Although there are certainly challenges that your child will face because of dyslexia, there are also advantages. “When I was little, I just wanted it to go away,” Casadaban remembers. “But now, even on the days I’m more aware of my dyslexia, I wouldn’t change that about myself.” Casadaban’s parents would tell her growing up that it would both hurt and help her brain to have dyslexia—and now she finally understands what they meant. “It’s made me smarter. Academically, I can solve problems faster, I can make decisions based on less information, and I’m more creative, coming up with new ways to do things. I can teach others really well and explain how to do things better because I had to teach
myself my entire life.” Other benefits to dyslexia include developing more patience for others and yourself, as well as increased compassion, sympathy, and awareness toward others. “It makes me more aware of others in friendships because I know what it’s like to have something invisible that’s wrong with me,” Casadaban says. “There are days I wish I didn’t have dyslexia, but some days when I problem-solve, I know it’s because I grew up doing that.” Encourage your child to see the ways their dyslexia will grow them into a better person over time. DYSLEXIA TECH TIP Technology is a person with dyslexia’s best friend. For example, “Textbooks read to me, which can be really helpful,” Casadaban states. “Spellcheck is awesome, especially because it would take a lot of time when I was young.” You can also set reminders and to-do lists on your phone to help with their short-term memory struggles. Programs like Grammarly can also read everything your child types and highlight potential mistakes, which can help them to better process information. Speech-to-text typing and texting can also be a helpful tool. Plus, many e-readers like Kindles have a dyslexic
font that is easier to read.
DYSLEXIA RESOURCES There is a world of dyslexia-related resources available to you and your child at the click of a button, both locally and nationally. To learn more about what dyslexia is, check out International Dyslexia Association (IDA), Understood.org, Decoding Dyslexia, and Dr. Sally Shaywitz’s book Overcoming Dyslexia. Consider enrolling your child in a dyslexia school, tutoring, programs focused on structured literacy like Orton-Gillingham, or a curriculum like Barton or Wilson for targeted intervention. Remember, dyslexia may pose some difficulties, but it will grow your child in unique ways; with the right support and understanding, your child will thrive! And to your child with dyslexia,
Casadaban says, “I’m so sorry school is so different for you, but even if you don’t realize it, this is turning you into a more understanding person. One day you’ll find out something you’re great at and it will be so much better.” PARENTS DID YOU KNOW? Colorado is one of the few states with a program that allows a parent or family member to get paid to take care of their special needs child. If your child is on Medicaid, then you may qualify to get paid to take care of your child. All for Kids Home Health can help you find out if you qualify for this program. Our company was started by a parent walking in your shoes — so we understand your journey and care deeply about supporting you. We can help you find out if you qualify for this life-changing program. Benefits we offer include: Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) retirement plan Hospital pay and other support programs Contact us today to see if you qualify — and let’s walk this path together.
ALL FOR KIDS HOME HEALTH 4155 E. Jewell Ave, Ste 900, Denver, CO 80222 720-456-0854 | terri@allforkidshealth.com
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