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As a parent of a child with dyslexia certainly you have concerns about how you can help your child with their problems with reading and learning in general. In order to alleviate the tension you are experiencing this post, Children with Dyslexia – What Parents Need to Know, covers certain facts and myths about dyslexia well as some useful suggestions for solutions to your worries.

Facts about Dyslexia

The first important things to cover are some facts about dyslexia and how to deal with them. Parents should have first-hand knowledge about dyslexia to better understand the issues and therefore the ways in which to help their children that struggle with the problems they face.

Here are certain facts about dyslexia that parents should know:

• Dyslexia affects about 1 in 7 people – Parents and children both should know this fact so that they realize that they are not alone. Many families and the children themselves often feel isolated and that no one understands. There are many helpful organizations available that will assist families gain a better understanding of dyslexia and how to deal with the issues that arise.

• Dyslexia is not a “disease” – It cannot be “cured” or something a child “grows out of”. However with the right measures of intervention, strategies for learning and additional support from family and school personnel children with dyslexia can lead successful lives.

• Dyslexia is a neurological disorder – There is no known specific cause but studies show that the brain of a dyslexic develops and functions differently. With this is a type of learning disability there are difficulties with language skills in particular reading.

Myths about Dyslexia

Here we will dispel two myths that seem to add to parent’s confusion when it comes to understanding dyslexia and how to help their children deal with the situation.

• Dyslexia vs. IQ – Perhaps the number one myth about those with dyslexia is that they are stupid. Nothing could be farther from the truth. In fact children or adults diagnosed with dyslexia are of average or above average intelligence. There are many “gifted” dyslexics that have been well known throughout history. Many believe that Albert Einstein was a dyslexic because of his noted delays in speech and language; today one would hardly dare to call this man stupid. There are a great number of many talented and successful people who have dyslexia. The key to helping your child deal with dyslexia is your continued parental involvement and dedication to helping your child to seek out the best possible reading programs to assist their needs.

• Dyslexics are just lazy – Those with little understanding of dyslexia tend to think that those affected just don’t try hard enough and are lazy about learning. That is hardly the case. Most who are dealing with dyslexia “try” harder than ever to learn. True they often get frustrated and act as if they want to give up but this reaction is actually a cry for help. Children with dyslexia often face issues of low self-esteem because they know they are falling behind their peers when it comes to learning. They want to learn but without the right guidance and practice they will struggle with reading. Every child has strengths and weaknesses when it comes to learning. That is why it is crucial for parents to know their child’s learning styles so that you can help them build up their weak areas through their strong points. Finding a reading program that promotes the Orton-Gillingham multi-sensory approach to learning will definitely assist your child with their struggles when it comes to reading.

Helping Your Dyslexic Child

So just what should you do to help your child with dyslexia? Your continued support and dedication to your child’s learning process is the first best step to helping your child succeed. Children assured that their parents are involved and will stand by them gives the child peace of mind that together you will work through the issues surrounding their situation.

• Keep in close contact with your child’s teacher so that you will know their current progress.

• Attend parent conferences and IEP (Individual Education Plan) meetings regularly.

• Get to know your child’s learning styles and focus on your child’s strengths to help work through their weaknesses.

• Seek out tutors that offer assistance with your child’s individual learning needs.

• Purchase a reading program that gives help to struggling readers at home.

• Reassure your child and praise them for their efforts daily.

Dyslexic children are struggling readers but there are methods that will help them succeed. Working together as a team is key to helping your child to become successful. Knowing that you and your child are not alone in your efforts will give both comfort and the necessary tools to assist you with the challenges to come.