Resources for Parents

Exploring our website will lead parents to valid resources that will enhance their own learning, as well as to identify effective instructional interventions to support dyslexic students and those with related language based learning disorders.

First and foremost, be aware that some educational professionals do not realize what they do not know and without the appropriate knowledge, training and expertise they may not have the appropriate information to offer what your child needs in the way of remediation.

That being said, some professionals have a different philosophy regarding the teaching of reading and writing and some continue to believe dyslexic students cannot be taught to read or learn to read well. This is not accurate! Parents often become confused and report that they have been told that dyslexia does not exist or that dyslexia is an old outdated term or that dyslexics see printed material in reverse. All of the aforementioned statements are myths!

Another important tip to remember is that dyslexia is specifically listed within the federal regulations under the definition for Specific Learning Disability of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act 2004 (IDEA). Parents may also be interested in seeking an independent evaluation to confirm the identification of dyslexia and to obtain appropriate recommendations for instruction.

Our link below under “Just the Facts” offers beginning summaries that will assist you with the IDA definition of dyslexia, common characteristics and additional related information. It is important for parents to be knowledgeable about their child’s learning profile and the implications for learning to read, write, process language, and in some instances math. The information needed for parents to become an educational expert regarding their dyslexic student is available and a single piece of information and guidance will lead you to another. Those parents who have an interest in understanding and researching specific interventions, as well as learning about brain research, have access to the same information as any other professional educator.

When a child struggles to read, parents and educators want to do everything possible to help that child keep up with his or her peers and be successful in school. But as much as we want that to happen overnight, that is not how it usually works. It can take years of hard work, even with the best teachers and instruction. Unfortunately, some organizations or individuals may take advantage of parents when they are most vulnerable by making exaggerated claims or false guarantees based on “pseudo science.” This fact sheet provides guidance in learning to critically evaluate programs, avoid scams, and move forward toward providing instruction that will truly help the children who need it. Read More.

Beginning Wednesday 10/14/2020, NHIDA will host a free, one-hour Zoom session for parents every other month that focuses on a topic from the IDA Dyslexia Fact Sheets. If you don’t know about the fact sheets, be sure to check them out; they’re current, relevant, and full of great information. In addition to our board member panelists, each session will include a guest speaker with deep knowledge of the topic.