Many parents are unable to find effective instruction to meet the educational needs of their children. This situation is especially true for reading instruction. The following guidelines will help you know what to ask and how to find and evaluate an educational professional independent of the school. (See IDA’s fact sheet on Evaluating Professionals and our provider directories)
There will be days…when nothing seems to work right. The lesson goes slowly; the student is restless and perhaps bored. Education was not intended to take place in a single day. Give yourself and the student a break, and with the student, set meaningful goals for the next lesson. (See IDA’s fact sheet on Homeschooling)
DE-STRESS! We are all stressed, but the student with dyslexia is even more vulnerable when trying to settle down and learn. IDA’s fact sheet on the dyslexia-stress-anxiety connection provides a step-by-step guide for addressing stress, anxiety, and dyslexia. (See IDA’s fact the Dyslexia-Stress-Anxiety Connection)
Buyer beware! Some organizations and individuals make exaggerated claims about their products and offerings. Parents must learn to be skeptical of any organization or individual making claims that seem too good to be true. It is worth the investment of your time to make sure that products or approaches are truly delivering on their promises. (See IDA’s fact sheet When Educational Promises Are Too Good to Be True)
Technologies for dyslexia and other learning disabilities are increasingly available and accessible at lower cost. Everyday devices found in homes, schools, and businesses such as smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices provide access to technology that is literally at one’s fingertips. We have provided some guiding principles to help you evaluate these critical tools and resources. (See IDA’s fact sheet Overview of Assistive and Instructional Technology)
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