Resources for parents

Dyslexia is a language-based learning difference that primarily affects reading, spelling, and writing. It is neurobiological in origin and unrelated to intelligence, vision problems, or lack of educational opportunities. Early identification and intervention can make a significant difference in helping dyslexic students achieve reading fluency and academic success. 

 If you suspect your child has dyslexia, you can request a free evaluation through your public school district under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This process involves meetings with the school, interpreting test results, and deciding on appropriate interventions. Alternatively, private evaluations are available but can be costly, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. 

Some families may also look into Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) if they disagree with the school’s assessment. Lower-cost options can be explored through local universities, teaching hospitals, and health insurance plans. 

 Once diagnosed, your child may be eligible for support services under an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 Plan. These plans can provide accommodations such as extra time on tests, assistive technology, and specialized instruction. 

Advocating for your child is crucial. 

Organizations like the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) offer resources to help parents navigate the public education system and ensure their children receive appropriate support.  

• International Dyslexia Association (IDA): Provides comprehensive information, resources, and advocacy tools for families and educators.   
• Decoding Dyslexia: A grassroots movement focused on improving access to educational interventions for students with dyslexia in the public education system. 
• Learning Ally: Offers audiobooks and other resources for students with dyslexia, helping them access grade-level content. 
• Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity: Provides a wealth of resources from experts, stories from other parents, and tools to help set your children on the best possible path. Yale Dyslexia 
• Children's Dyslexia Centers: Offers resources and tutoring services for children with dyslexia. 

Effective reading programs for students with dyslexia often include multisensory instruction and structured literacy approaches. Some recommended programs and resources include:

• Orton-Gillingham Approach: A direct, explicit, multisensory, structured, sequential, diagnostic, and prescriptive way to teach literacy.   
• Reading Rockets: Provides strategies, lessons, and activities designed to help young children learn to read.   
• Dysolve: AI-powered, game-based platform designed to diagnose and correct dyslexia by targeting the underlying language processing inefficiencies in the brain. Unlike traditional interventions that focus on compensatory strategies, Dysolve's patented technology creates individualized games that adapt in real-time to each student's unique challenges, aiming to improve reading fluency and comprehension by enhancing neural processing efficiency. 
• Read Naturally: Combines the research-based strategies of teacher modeling, repeated reading, and progress monitoring to improve reading fluency. 

1. Request a formal evaluation: Start with your child's school to initiate the evaluation process.
2. Educate yourself: Utilize the resources provided by organizations like IDA and Decoding Dyslexia to understand your child's rights and the support available.
3. Connect with local support groups: Engaging with other parents can provide emotional support and practical advice.  
4. Implement at-home strategies: Work with your child using evidence-based programs and tools to support their learning at home.  

Remember, early intervention and consistent support can make a significant difference in your child's educational journey.