How Is Dyslexia Managed?
Fortunately, with the proper assistance and help, most kids with dyslexia are able
to learn to read and develop strategies that allow them to stay in the regular classroom.
They usually work with a specially trained teacher, tutor, or reading specialist
to learn how to read, spell, and manage the condition. Your child's teacher, psychologist,
or pediatrician may recommend an academic therapist — also called an education
therapist or an academic language therapist — who is trained to work with kids
with dyslexia.
In the United States, federal laws entitle kids with reading and other language-based
learning differences — collectively known as "specific learning disabilities"
— to special help in public schools, such as specialized instruction,
extra time for tests or homework, or help with taking notes. States vary in how these
laws are implemented. Parents should discuss these laws and accommodations with school
staff.
What Else Should I Know?
Kids with dyslexia may feel that they're not as smart as their peers because it's
difficult to keep up. As they move through elementary school, problems can get worse
as reading becomes more important to learning.
Kids who have difficulty often avoid reading because it's hard or stressful. So
they miss out on valuable reading practice and fall farther behind their classmates.
It's important to support your child's efforts by encouraging and assisting in
reading at home. Also try to give your child opportunities to build confidence and
have success in other areas, such as sports, hobbies, art, and drama. Artists, athletes,
scientists, entrepreneurs, doctors, lawyers, and statesmen all have been able to achieve
great things despite trouble with reading.
If you think your child might have dyslexia, talk with your doctor, your child's
teacher, or a reading specialist. The sooner a reading problem is found, the sooner
your child can get the proper help.
Date reviewed: September 2018