One of the most effective ways to support your dyslexic child is to incorporate reading practice into your daily routine. Reading aloud to your child can not only help improve their reading skills, but can also strengthen your bond through shared storytelling experiences. Choose books that cater to their interests even if they aren't on your child's reading level. This will ensure enjoyable and engaging reading sessions as well as expose your child to higher level vocabulary and concepts. By making reading a fun and interactive activity, you can create a positive association with books and foster a love for reading in your child. It is also equally important for your child to engage in independent reading at a level appropriate for them. This will give their brain the practice it needs to strengthen the synapses that have formed throughout the school year. Don't forget to ask for their reading level so you can pick out good fit books together. Listening to audiobooks is also highly recommended as it is an incredibly beneficial and effective method for enhancing reading skills. By immersing oneself in the world of audiobooks, children have the opportunity to engage with literature in a unique way that stimulates their imagination and comprehension abilities. The auditory experience of listening to a book being narrated can help children improve their listening skills, vocabulary development, and overall understanding of the content. In addition, audiobooks offer a dynamic and engaging way to experience storytelling, with skilled narrators bringing characters to life and creating an immersive narrative experience. This can help children develop a deeper appreciation for literature and storytelling techniques. Overall, the benefits of listening to audiobooks extend well beyond just improving reading skills; they also provide a gateway to new worlds, ideas, and perspectives, making them a valuable tool for personal growth and enrichment. Along with the tips listed above, patience and encouragement are crucial in helping your dyslexic child build confidence and develop their reading abilities! Happy reading! - Melissa

Allison is a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) and a certified classroom teacher. Allison has over 13 years of experience teaching students with dyslexia in public education ranging from Kindergarten to high school-aged children. Many of her previous students have gone on to achieve high academic success including advanced placement in English classes, receiving nominations for National Honor Society, and successfully pursuing their desired colleges and careers. She is passionate about watching her students' literacy transform and desires for any feelings of self-doubt to diminish while a love of reading is developed! Allison’s heart and commitment to her students overflows in her therapy. She yearns for her students to know that despite their learning differences, they are bright and remarkable individuals and have a bright future! Allison will begin providing services at Kids First on January 6, 2025! Contact us now to schedule services!

The Dyslexia Duo Podcast  will delve into the world of dyslexia, providing insightful information and debunking myths. Aimee and Melissa will host an array of intelligent guests to educate parents, teachers, therapists, policymakers, and more about dyslexia. No longer do you have to wonder what dyslexia is or how to support those afflicted. You can find it on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify, iHeart and Podbean. The link below is to our publishing site, which has a link to all the major streaming options. https://dyslexia-duo.podbean.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3p2bATMvAD6Tep9aRoZYlK3qqca5JndyupeFeHSQWuHaI6w1ReyO9zKhw_aem_ZmFrZWR1bW15MTZieXRlcw Follow The Dyslexia Duo on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560054863798

"A teacher educated about dyslexia can be the one person who saves a child and his/her family from years of frustration and anxiety. That teacher can play a pivotal role in changing the whole culture of a school." - Dr. Kelli Sandman-Hurley