Children with dyslexia often have emotional issues because of the frustration they experience from not being able to read and perform other literacy activities efficiently.
By the time they become adults, some have learned to deal with their dyslexia, while others have not.
The number one determinant of whether they thrive or not as an adult is having someone in their childhood who is supportive and encouraging.
There are several things that you can do to stop your child from developing serious emotional issues, and it doesn’t take much time or effort.
Here Are 5 Simple Things:
- Ensure that they understand what dyslexia is.
- Go through the common myths and facts about this identity.
- Discuss the inconsistencies.
- Help them see themselves as smart, even though they learn differently.
- Listen to your child.
- Help them talk about their feelings and validate them.
- Open communication goes a long way to easing fear and anxiety.
- Reward their effort, regardless of the content presented.
- Stay away from labeling your child or his work negatively.
- Find ways for your child to showcase his strengths and shine.
- Recognize them and make it a “big deal.”
- Teach him to advocate for himself.
- Tell him how to talk to his teachers, friends, and classmates about what he needs to do his best work. For example, ask for more time to complete assignments without negative consequences.
When both you and your child understand how the dyslexic brain functions, it will be easier to address the fluctuation in skill level from one day to the next.
Florence, thank you for these clear recommendations for helping the dyslexic child. I don’t think people realize how many kids/people are dealing with dyslexia.
You’re welcome, Kebba. If one out of five children has dyslexia, that’s at least one in every classroom. You’re right about people not realizing how many children/people are challenged because of dyslexia.
Thanks, Florence. I appreciate your clear and direct action steps. I am sure that they could make all the difference to the children, their families and their teachers.
Yes, Mary Elizabeth, you’re correct. The tips and strategies that work for dyslexics are beneficial to all children.