Parenting is a rewarding journey filled with various challenges, and for parents with dyslexia, helping their child with reading difficulties can present unique obstacles. In my role as a specialist assessor, I have encountered numerous parents who may not have identified their own dyslexia until their child underwent assessment. The struggles they faced in school may resurface as they try to support their child’s education, but with the right guidance and resources, parents with dyslexia can play a crucial role in their child’s learning journey.
Key Takeaways
Parents with dyslexia can support their child’s reading and writing with clear guidance, simple tools, and school collaboration.
Many adults discover their own dyslexia after a child’s assessment; a formal assessment helps identify strengths and support needs.
Dyslexic educators and parents model success, and can become strong advocates within schools and communities.
Support exists at every age, including the Disabled Students Allowance for higher education.
Connect with charities, peer groups, and your child’s school to build a strong support network.
Identification and Understanding
Late Discovery of Dyslexia
Many parents with dyslexia may not realise their condition until their child is assessed. The pre-assessment questionnaire often serves as a revelation, prompting them to reflect on their own challenges at school, including cognitive differences in processing information. Some may have chosen career paths where writing is not a predominant requirement, allowing their dyslexia to remain unnoticed until faced with new challenges that demand more extensive reading or writing skills, highlighting learning differences.
Avoidance of Parents’ Evenings
The negative school experiences of parents with dyslexia might lead them to avoid parents’ evenings, due to the emotional impact of past trauma. The identification of children with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) was historically inadequate, leaving many undiagnosed. This reluctance to engage with the education system underscores the need for understanding and support for parents with dyslexia.
Lockdown and Positive Outcomes
The lockdown, despite its challenges, brought about some positive stories. Parents with dyslexia found themselves actively engaging in their children’s education, using the time to teach and learn alongside them. Some adults even taught themselves phonics during this period, highlighting the potential for self-directed learning and growth.
Celebrating Dyslexia Advocates
Dyslexia Charities and Pioneers
The 50th anniversaries of major dyslexia charities, such as the British Dyslexia Association, Helen Arkell, and Dyslexia Action, were celebrated at the House of Lords. These organisations were established by mothers who were determined to help their dyslexic children navigate an education system that often failed them. The stories of these pioneers emphasise the significant impact parents can have in championing dyslexia awareness and support.
Parent Advocacy and Specialist Training
Many educators, including teachers and support staff, discover their dyslexia when their child is diagnosed. This revelation often becomes a catalyst for further teacher training as specialist teachers and assessors. Parents, equipped with the knowledge gained from working with their own dyslexic child, extend their skills to support other dyslexic individuals, emphasising the influential role parents can play in the learning process.
Dyslexia in the Education System
Dyslexic Educators as Role Models
Dyslexic educators, constituting about 10% of the staff, can serve as valuable role models for dyslexic pupils. Their firsthand understanding of the challenges and unique learning needs of dyslexic individuals positions them to provide targeted support and inspiration. Teachers with dyslexia bring practical insights that benefit the whole classroom.
The Struggle of Disclosure
Despite the progress in dyslexia awareness, disclosing dyslexia can still be a challenging decision for some members of the education system, including teachers. While for some, it is an opportunity to be a role model, for others, the fear of judgment and the stigma associated with dyslexia can hinder disclosure.
Age, Learning, and Support
Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)
Age should never be a barrier to learning, and the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) stands as a crucial resource. This allowance can provide support for individuals, regardless of age, enabling them to access degree courses fully despite academic challenges and exam pressure. It emphasises the principle that it is never too late to undergo assessment, discover one’s potential, and enhance support for the younger generation.
Advice and Support for Parents with Dyslexia
1. Seeking Assessment
Parents who suspect they may have dyslexia should consider seeking formal assessment. This process can provide valuable insights into their strengths, revealing both cognitive strengths and potential for creative thinking, as well as weaknesses and learning styles, enabling them to better understand and navigate their own challenges.
2. Building a Support Network
Connecting with other parents who have dyslexia or joining dyslexia support groups can offer a sense of community and shared experiences. Learning from others who have faced similar challenges can provide practical tips and emotional support.
3. Exploring Online Resources
The internet is a valuable source of information and resources for parents with dyslexia. Websites, forums, and online courses dedicated to dyslexia awareness and support can provide practical strategies and advice.
4. Engaging with School
Open communication with teachers and school staff is crucial. Informing them about one’s dyslexia, working with schools to discuss specific challenges, and collaborating on effective support strategies can contribute to a more inclusive learning environment and a supportive home environment.
5. Encouraging Self-Advocacy
Parents can empower their child to become a self-advocate by teaching them about dyslexia, building their confidence, and helping them understand their learning needs. This proactive approach fosters independence, resilience, and strong self-advocacy skills.
Frequently Asked Questions About Supporting Your Child When You Have Dyslexia
How can a parent with dyslexia help a child with reading and writing?
Start with simple routines, short sessions, and clear steps. Use phonics-based resources for reading and writing, multisensory approaches for spelling, audiobooks alongside print, and visual supports. Keep open contact with teachers and the IEP team, agree practical classroom adjustments for reading and writing, and review progress together. Encourage your child’s confidence and self-advocacy.
Should a parent get assessed for dyslexia too?
Yes. A formal assessment gives a clear picture of strengths and challenges. It guides tailored learning strategies at home and work, and can open access to support. Many parents only recognise their dyslexia during their child’s assessment process.
What support is available for older students or adults returning to study?
The Disabled Students Allowance can fund study support on degree courses. Age is not a barrier. Assessment and the right tools make further study more accessible.
Are dyslexic teachers and support staff helpful role models?
Yes. Dyslexic educators, around 10% of staff in some settings, understand practical challenges and can model effective strategies. Some may choose not to disclose, so create a supportive culture that respects privacy and encourages openness.
Where can parents find trusted dyslexia resources and community support?
Start with established charities such as the British Dyslexia Association, Helen Arkell, and Dyslexia Action. Join parent groups, use reputable online resources, and speak with your school. For assessments, you can contact Dyslexia UK for remote options via Zoom: https://www.dyslexiauk.co.uk/contact-us/
A Collective Effort for Inclusivity
Supporting a child’s education when you have dyslexia may present challenges, but it also offers unique opportunities for growth, understanding, and shared achievements. By acknowledging the struggles, celebrating successes, and actively seeking support, parents with dyslexia can navigate this journey with resilience and contribute to a more inclusive educational landscape for all.
Empowering Parents with Dyslexia in Parenting a Dyslexic Child with Reading and Writing
Parenting is a rewarding journey filled with various challenges, and for parents with dyslexia, helping their child with reading difficulties can present unique obstacles. In my role as a specialist assessor, I have encountered numerous parents who may not have identified their own dyslexia until their child underwent assessment. The struggles they faced in school may resurface as they try to support their child’s education, but with the right guidance and resources, parents with dyslexia can play a crucial role in their child’s learning journey.
Key Takeaways
Identification and Understanding
Late Discovery of Dyslexia
Many parents with dyslexia may not realise their condition until their child is assessed. The pre-assessment questionnaire often serves as a revelation, prompting them to reflect on their own challenges at school, including cognitive differences in processing information. Some may have chosen career paths where writing is not a predominant requirement, allowing their dyslexia to remain unnoticed until faced with new challenges that demand more extensive reading or writing skills, highlighting learning differences.
Avoidance of Parents’ Evenings
The negative school experiences of parents with dyslexia might lead them to avoid parents’ evenings, due to the emotional impact of past trauma. The identification of children with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) was historically inadequate, leaving many undiagnosed. This reluctance to engage with the education system underscores the need for understanding and support for parents with dyslexia.
Lockdown and Positive Outcomes
The lockdown, despite its challenges, brought about some positive stories. Parents with dyslexia found themselves actively engaging in their children’s education, using the time to teach and learn alongside them. Some adults even taught themselves phonics during this period, highlighting the potential for self-directed learning and growth.
Celebrating Dyslexia Advocates
Dyslexia Charities and Pioneers
The 50th anniversaries of major dyslexia charities, such as the British Dyslexia Association, Helen Arkell, and Dyslexia Action, were celebrated at the House of Lords. These organisations were established by mothers who were determined to help their dyslexic children navigate an education system that often failed them. The stories of these pioneers emphasise the significant impact parents can have in championing dyslexia awareness and support.
Parent Advocacy and Specialist Training
Many educators, including teachers and support staff, discover their dyslexia when their child is diagnosed. This revelation often becomes a catalyst for further teacher training as specialist teachers and assessors. Parents, equipped with the knowledge gained from working with their own dyslexic child, extend their skills to support other dyslexic individuals, emphasising the influential role parents can play in the learning process.
Dyslexia in the Education System
Dyslexic Educators as Role Models
Dyslexic educators, constituting about 10% of the staff, can serve as valuable role models for dyslexic pupils. Their firsthand understanding of the challenges and unique learning needs of dyslexic individuals positions them to provide targeted support and inspiration. Teachers with dyslexia bring practical insights that benefit the whole classroom.
The Struggle of Disclosure
Despite the progress in dyslexia awareness, disclosing dyslexia can still be a challenging decision for some members of the education system, including teachers. While for some, it is an opportunity to be a role model, for others, the fear of judgment and the stigma associated with dyslexia can hinder disclosure.
Age, Learning, and Support
Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)
Age should never be a barrier to learning, and the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) stands as a crucial resource. This allowance can provide support for individuals, regardless of age, enabling them to access degree courses fully despite academic challenges and exam pressure. It emphasises the principle that it is never too late to undergo assessment, discover one’s potential, and enhance support for the younger generation.
Advice and Support for Parents with Dyslexia
1. Seeking Assessment
Parents who suspect they may have dyslexia should consider seeking formal assessment. This process can provide valuable insights into their strengths, revealing both cognitive strengths and potential for creative thinking, as well as weaknesses and learning styles, enabling them to better understand and navigate their own challenges.
2. Building a Support Network
Connecting with other parents who have dyslexia or joining dyslexia support groups can offer a sense of community and shared experiences. Learning from others who have faced similar challenges can provide practical tips and emotional support.
3. Exploring Online Resources
The internet is a valuable source of information and resources for parents with dyslexia. Websites, forums, and online courses dedicated to dyslexia awareness and support can provide practical strategies and advice.
4. Engaging with School
Open communication with teachers and school staff is crucial. Informing them about one’s dyslexia, working with schools to discuss specific challenges, and collaborating on effective support strategies can contribute to a more inclusive learning environment and a supportive home environment.
5. Encouraging Self-Advocacy
Parents can empower their child to become a self-advocate by teaching them about dyslexia, building their confidence, and helping them understand their learning needs. This proactive approach fosters independence, resilience, and strong self-advocacy skills.
Frequently Asked Questions About Supporting Your Child When You Have Dyslexia
How can a parent with dyslexia help a child with reading and writing?
Start with simple routines, short sessions, and clear steps. Use phonics-based resources for reading and writing, multisensory approaches for spelling, audiobooks alongside print, and visual supports. Keep open contact with teachers and the IEP team, agree practical classroom adjustments for reading and writing, and review progress together. Encourage your child’s confidence and self-advocacy.
Should a parent get assessed for dyslexia too?
Yes. A formal assessment gives a clear picture of strengths and challenges. It guides tailored learning strategies at home and work, and can open access to support. Many parents only recognise their dyslexia during their child’s assessment process.
What support is available for older students or adults returning to study?
The Disabled Students Allowance can fund study support on degree courses. Age is not a barrier. Assessment and the right tools make further study more accessible.
Are dyslexic teachers and support staff helpful role models?
Yes. Dyslexic educators, around 10% of staff in some settings, understand practical challenges and can model effective strategies. Some may choose not to disclose, so create a supportive culture that respects privacy and encourages openness.
Where can parents find trusted dyslexia resources and community support?
Start with established charities such as the British Dyslexia Association, Helen Arkell, and Dyslexia Action. Join parent groups, use reputable online resources, and speak with your school. For assessments, you can contact Dyslexia UK for remote options via Zoom: https://www.dyslexiauk.co.uk/contact-us/
A Collective Effort for Inclusivity
Supporting a child’s education when you have dyslexia may present challenges, but it also offers unique opportunities for growth, understanding, and shared achievements. By acknowledging the struggles, celebrating successes, and actively seeking support, parents with dyslexia can navigate this journey with resilience and contribute to a more inclusive educational landscape for all.
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