Experiences of a mum of a dyslexic child
“Dyslexia” – It’s not a word that most people have heard. And those who have, only possess a vague (and an often incorrect) understanding of it. Yet, dyslexia is a condition that affects 10% of the world population, or roughly 800 million people! With figures like these, it’s highly likely that each one of us knows at least one person who has dyslexia, irrespective of whether their condition has been diagnosed or not.
Because of such large-scale ignorance of dyslexia, when someone close to us is diagnosed with the condition, our reaction is usually in the extremes – Either we dismiss the condition, or we go straight into panic mode. Neither is helpful. Instead, what would be useful would be a well-calibrated response which can effectively tackle the situation.
And so, through this blog, I have tried to share my experiences in raising a child with dyslexia, with the hope that you can benefit from the insights that I have gained along the way and therefore help your child more effectively in dealing with her/her dyslexia.
Disclaimer: I am not a trained teacher, psychologist, or special educator. I am simply a mother of a dyslexic child who wishes to share her experiences with other parents of dyslexic children. My words should not be taken as medical advice. You are requested to seek the opinion of professionals before making any decisions pertaining to those suffering from dyslexia.
Hi everyone!
I am a mother of a dyslexic child sharing my experiences and insights for the benefit of other parents of dyslexic children. Especially those who have just discovered that their child may be dyslexic.
Love & Luck
The Basics
What is dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a condition where the affected person primarily has difficulty in reading.
Is dyslexia a Learning Disability?
Yes. In a typical academic environment, the ability to read is critical for learning. Therefore, difficulty in reading diminishes one’s ability to learn. Hence, Dyslexia is termed as a Learning Disability.
Why does dyslexia happen?
Dyslexia occurs because information in the brain of an affected person is processed differently than in a non-affected person. More specifically, when dyslexic people read, they use different parts of the brain than those without dyslexia.
Does a dyslexic person have any other difficulties besides reading?
Yes. Dyslexics can also suffer from speech issues whilst also exhibiting poor memory, organizational, and multi-tasking skills.
However, reading is the most common difficulty faced by dyslexics.
Is dyslexia genetic?
Yes. Research has established that a child having a dyslexic parent has a 40% risk of being dyslexic themselves. This risk is increased when other members of the family are also dyslexic.
Can dyslexia be cured?
No. Dyslexia is a life-long condition and so there is no “cure” for dyslexia. However, dyslexia can be sufficiently managed so as to allow the child to lead a perfectly normal life.
Read the entire blog to learn about how dyslexia can be managed.
Can dyslexics lead a normal life?
Absolutely. If the condition is detected early and the child is provided with adequate remedies, they can lead a perfectly normal life.
Read the entire blog to learn more about this.
What kind of remedies does a dyslexic child need?
The primary remedy for a dyslexic child is Special Education that employs teaching methods tailored to their understanding, thus enabling them to learn how to read.
Who can provide Special Education?
Instructors who provide Special Education are called Special Educators. They are different from regular teachers.
How long would a dyslexic child need special education before he can read and write without difficulty?
Depending on the severity of the condition and the frequency of special education classes, it can take a dyslexic child between 2-4 years before he/she can manage their reading and writing with minimum difficulty.
Resources
Alongside seeking professional help, I read up extensively about Dyslexia online.
Have listed some sites that I referred to try understand and help my child better.
They addresses the full scope of dyslexia and related difficulties and facilitate remedial assistance for dyslexics to lead productive lives.
International Dyslexia Association
They have self assessment test, a digital library all about dyslexia and many comprehensive articles.
Teen Health & Understanding Dyslexia
This teen health site has an entire section dedicated to understanding dyslexia.
They provide resources and support so people who learn and think differently can thrive in all aspects of life.
Contact
Have a question or just want to say hi, I would love to hear from you!
hello@a2zdyslexia.com
Address: Ideal Niketan, 3 Chinghrighata Lane, Kolkata 700015, India.