Teaching Dyslexic Kids: Potential Difficulties

Posted: March 31st, 2023

Teaching Dyslexic Kids: Potential Difficulties

Dyslexia is a learning disability that affects reading, writing, and spelling abilities. It is a common disorder that affects approximately 10% of the population. Children with dyslexia require special attention and intervention to achieve academic success. However, teaching dyslexic children can be a challenging task for educators due to the unique difficulties they face. In this essay, we will explore the potential difficulties of teaching dyslexic kids and discuss strategies that educators can use to address them.

Understanding Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a complex neurological condition that affects the way the brain processes written language. Children with dyslexia have difficulty decoding words and recognizing them quickly and accurately. They may also have trouble spelling, reading fluently, and understanding what they read. Dyslexia is not a result of poor vision or lack of intelligence, and it is not curable. However, with appropriate intervention and support, children with dyslexia can learn to read and write.

Potential Difficulties in Teaching Dyslexic Kids

Teaching dyslexic kids can be challenging for educators due to the following potential difficulties:

Phonological Awareness
Phonological awareness is the ability to identify and manipulate the sounds of language. Children with dyslexia often struggle with phonological awareness, which can make it difficult for them to decode words and spell them correctly. Educators need to provide explicit instruction and practice in phonological awareness skills to help dyslexic children become proficient readers.

Working Memory
Working memory is the ability to hold information in your mind while performing a task. Children with dyslexia often have poor working memory, which can make it challenging for them to follow multi-step directions and remember what they have read. Educators need to use strategies such as repetition, chunking, and graphic organizers to help dyslexic children retain information.

Attention and Focus
Children with dyslexia often struggle with attention and focus, which can make it difficult for them to stay on task and complete assignments. Educators need to use strategies such as breaking down tasks into smaller steps, providing frequent breaks, and using visual aids to help dyslexic children stay engaged and focused.

Self-Esteem
Children with dyslexia often struggle with self-esteem due to their difficulties in reading and writing. They may feel frustrated, embarrassed, or ashamed of their abilities, which can affect their motivation to learn. Educators need to provide a supportive and positive learning environment and help dyslexic children develop their strengths and interests.

Strategies for Teaching Dyslexic Kids

To address the potential difficulties of teaching dyslexic kids, educators can use the following strategies:

Multisensory Instruction
Multisensory instruction involves using visual, auditory, and kinesthetic/tactile modalities to teach reading and writing. This approach can help dyslexic children develop phonological awareness, improve working memory, and enhance attention and focus.

Assistive Technology
Assistive technology such as text-to-speech software, speech recognition software, and electronic graphic organizers can help dyslexic children access information and complete assignments more efficiently.

Accommodations
Accommodations such as extended time on tests, preferential seating, and use of a scribe or computer can help dyslexic children demonstrate their knowledge and skills without being hindered by their difficulties.

Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement such as praise, rewards, and recognition can help dyslexic children develop their self-esteem and motivation to learn.

References:

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.