Interesting New Research

Have you discovered TED? I could watch these videos for hours!!

I recently watched this video, in which Dr. Aditi Shankardass explains her research about the brain and dyslexia and autism.

It's the beginning of the school year. Now what?

I don't know about you, but our summer was too short!!   I can't believe the school year is in full swing!

I hope your child is off to a great school year!

Parents often ask me questions about working with their child's school.  First and foremost, I think it is important to treat them as allies.  Teachers almost always have the very best of intentions, even if they aren't specifically trained to deal with dyslexic children.

If your child has been diagnosed with dyslexia, you should meet with the school to discuss accommodations.  Every child has different needs, so you need to make sure that your child's accommodations are tailored specifically to him/her.

Accommodations may include:

- preferential seating

-  accept homework dictated by child and written by mom/dad

-  allow him/her to bring a tape recorder on review days

- allow extra time on tests and assignments, or shorten assignments

- do not count off for spelling except on spelling test

-  set a time limit for homework.  Dyslexic students have to work harder and longer than other students, so accept homework that is not complete, but that fulfill the time requirement.


I believe it is of utmost importance to preserve children's self-esteem.  I ALWAYS ask teachers to please, please, please:

- do not call on the student to read aloud in front of the class unless he volunteers

- do not switch papers and let other children grade his/her paper

Have a great school year!