Most parents today have found themselves surprisingly in the role of parent/teacher in this new Covid homeschool/online learning environment. This new way of learning can bring both joy and tears to all types of learners, especially those who learn differently such as a person with dyslexia.

For some kids, learning from home may be a huge relief. No longer do they have to worry about misspelling a word in front of the classroom, being the last student done with an assignment, or being asked to read something out loud. They can work a bit more at their own pace in the privacy of their own home. And they can ask as many questions as needed from both teachers and parents.

The flip side is that though they may be relieved about certain aspects of learning from home, others may become harder. Many dyslexics excel at auditory or hands on learning. It is easier for them to learn new information and process information when it is presented in auditory form or in a hands-on way. Taking these types of learners and asking them to now do the bulk of their learning through a screen by reading can be daunting to say the least.

Assignments and tasks that they were familiar with may now be taking them twice as long and more frustrating than ever. They may also struggle with turning in work in written form rather than being able to just share their answers in class. There can also be overwhelm for students as they suddenly need to structure their day and use of time differently.

You are not alone! Below are 3 things you can do to help your child succeed during this time!

1. Use audio books!

Many textbooks are now online and allowing your child to listen to a textbook rather than read it can be extremely helpful. Allow kids to listen to audio books rather than reading books and novels for their classes. This allows kids to “read with their ears” and read the same books as their peers. There are several great online resources through local libraries. You can also find it on websites such as audible that can provide a wide range of audio books for kids.

2. Use technology.

There is a lot of great free technology out there that can help people with dyslexia.

a. Beeline Reader- This Google Chrome add on is free and changes the color and font on your computer which often helps a person with dyslexia be able to track the words on the computer screen better as they read through their own work and new websites they come to.
b. Voice to Text- There are many free voice to text programs that can be downloaded these days. Voice to text can be so helpful for kids as they are outlining a new paper or writing an essay. Sometimes it’s easier to speak the words than to write them down.

3. Social/Emotional Support

Be aware of the stress and anxiety that learning online may be causing your child. For some kids this can look like meltdowns around school. And for others it may look like withdrawing or a refusal to engage in schoolwork. Take the time to acknowledge what is hard and figure out what they need in order to feel more successful. Below are some suggestions.

a. Reach out to their teachers and ask for more time as needed.
b. Read their math word problems out loud.
c. Help proofread their writing assignments
d. Help them organize their day and how they are using their time but splitting the day up into chunks, make sure you include breaks as well!
e. Help them brainstorm and usual visual cues when writing!

Brain Breakthrough Therapy can help! Please call today to schedule a free consultation in person or by phone.  6270 NW Oats, Portland, OR 97229 | 971-231-5214