This year, my sweet, funny little boy who avoided the writing table in preschool, who faked reading prior to his identification with dyslexia, and who struggled to convey his intelligence on paper, began his freshman year at a great university. It was a defining moment of confidence for him.
My son sent me an email note just a few weeks ago – an exchange with his professor regarding a testing accommodation question – with the comment, “I guess you raised a little self advocate .”
His self-advocacy began with conversations in our family, but also, with his teachers. In high school, he took part in an innovative, craft based program for students interested in television and film. For one of his assignments, he produced a video about dyslexia, from the perspective of educators, parents and students. From a technical perspective, he never loved the piece, feeling he could have done a better job – that he’s just “ not a reporter, Mom.” Even so, he agreed I could share it if it would help someone else.
Watch and listen to what is said by students and parents about their needs, and how learning is impacted by dyslexia. An educator’s skill and understanding can make all the difference. Dyslexia does not have to be an impediment to learning or ability, or intellectual or emotional growth, or educational success. It’s a path of inclusion. It builds through remediation, and accommodation, then on to greater self-knowledge and self-advocacy for students, with parents and educators, working together.
Resources for Educators and Parents
© Parents Dyslexia Education Group, 2015. All rights reserved
© On the Path of Dyslexia, 2013-2015, Zeke Fritts. All rights reserved.