What is Dyslexia?
Knowing you have dyslexia is a good thing.
Dyslexia is nothing to be ashamed of. It is part of who you are. Some parents and teachers become worried about ‘labelling’ their child as having dyslexia – this is wrong! Knowing you have dyslexia is a good thing. Children are always relieved to finally understand why they have been struggling. Dyslexia is a learning difference – yes, school is harder but once you are taught in a different way children will catch up.
Without an understanding of their dyslexia, children continue to lose self-esteem often thinking they are stupid. This can lead to deep unhappiness, depression, anxiety and in some cases a phobia of school.
5 things to explain:
- Dyslexia is genetic. It is passed on through families – there will be someone in your family who also has dyslexia.
- There is no cure because dyslexia is an educational rather than a medical issue.
- Dyslexia just means your brain works differently, making it harder to learn and use written language. School will be tough so you will have to be determined.
- It will take longer to read and write than other children but you can learn to read and write like everyone else when you are taught in a different way – taught in the way you learn.
- Don’t just talk about the difficulties, there are many people who believe their dyslexia has given them special talents. One day you will leave school and be able to do the things you are really good at.
Watch Dyslexia Explained to learn about dyslexia.
Please click on the links to view some posters that provide information about Dyslexia, including the strengths.
Drongan Primary School correction code
Please see below for some links to videos about dyslexia.
Dyslexia Awareness Part 1: Module 5 – Identification
Dyslexia Awareness Part 1: Module 4 – Inclusive Classroom
Dyslexia Awareness Part 1 Module 3: Dyslexic Challenges
Dyslexia Awareness Part 1 Module 2: Dyslexic Strengths
Dyslexia Awareness Part 1 Module 1: About Dyslexia – Celebrities including Sir Richard Branson, Keira Knightley, Orlando Bloom and Maggie Aderin-Pocock join expert teachers from two world leading dyslexia schools to share their wisdom and expertise in these inspirational Dyslexia Awareness Training films produced by Made By Dyslexia. Millfield School UK and Schenck School USA are both pioneers in the field of dyslexia and the first schools in their respective countries to successfully support dyslexic students and focus on dyslexic strengths.
“Hear from some of the world’s most successful dyslexics including Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, Chris Robshaw, and Maggie Aderin-Pocock about dyslexic strengths and thinking skills so you can really understand what dyslexia is and why we should celebrate it.”
