Tips From the Hawaii International Dyslexia Association

Today I wanted to share with you this valuable booklet on dyslexia, printed by the Hawai’i Branch of the International Dyslexia Association (HIDA). HIDA is the branch that’s part of the International Dyslexia Association, promoting literacy through research, education and advocacy. I’m a huge fan of what they do and encourage you to take a look at their website: www.dyslexia-hawaii.org. You can find published works by local professionals as well.

This specific booklet is a useful compilation of practical tips given by HIDA members. It’s easy to read through, and worth taking a look, especially if you’ve just found out that your child might have dyslexia. Remember, you don’t have to take all of these tips to heart – each child is different, with a unique personality and learning styles.

There are more than 30 tips on the booklet, which can be found here: http://www.dyslexia-hawaii.org/images/uploads/HIDA_TipsBooklet_Small_rev6.compressed.pdf

For today’s blog, I just rounded up my personal top 6:

1.      Encourage all kinds of reading, which means including a variety of difficulty levels and topics. Help the child build confidence by reading books that are below his or her reading or age level, but also include higher grade levels as well. Tip: Dr. Seuss is a good source for children with dyslexia, because they have problems with rhyming words.

2.      Encourage your child to listen to audio books and have him or her read along. Again, choose from a variety of reading levels. Check out www.booksshouldbefree.com or www.librophile.com for free audio books.

3.      Teach your child to keep track of homework assignments and due dates through colored post its and folders, or use Google Apps if he or she has a phone. Google calendars can be adjusted to send email reminders. Organization is key!

4.      Communicate with your child’s teachers at the beginning of each school year. Let them know specific examples of how your child’s dyslexia may affect him or her in the classroom. Don’t assume that the teachers may know everything about dyslexia already – educate them by sending them informative links that might help them understand your child’s situation better.

5.      Consider attending conferences to listen to experts who might share new ideas or cutting edge techniques. (I often share some of these new research articles on this blog, so be sure to subscribe to my e-newsletter!)

Remember…trust your instincts! Make sure your child does not lose confidence, and that he or she accepts him or herself. You’re the parent. You know your child the best, so don’t give up and keep an open mind on solutions that could help your child succeed