1. Be Supportive
Dyslexic kids have been taunted and ostracized. Having difficulty learning to read may affect your child's self-esteem. Be sure to support his talents and strengths. Accept and love your child for who he is. That will allow him to feel more secure in reaching out to others and learning how to solve problems. Emphasize his strengths. That will foster a sense of accomplishment and pride. It also helps to give your child your undivided attention. Children feel loved when you spend one-on-one time with them. A child with dyslexia is especially vulnerable to attacks on his feelings of self-worth. But with your help and support, he can build the self-esteem it takes to overcome dyslexia.
2. Talk to Your Child
Explain what dyslexia is; tell him that it's not a failure on his part. Let him know that dyslexia has nothing to do with intelligence; that it's a disability in learning, not IQ. Dyslexics seem to have a distinct advantage when it comes to thinking creatively, to seeing problems and challenges in new and unique ways. In fact, they're overrepresented in the top ranks of artists, scientists and business executives. Talk about role models, people with dyslexia who've been successful in life, like Thomas Edison, Tom Cruise, Jay Leno, Walt Disney and Whoopi Goldberg. Repeat the stories. Positive stories can help your child overcome dyslexia.
3. Create a Stimulating Environment
Plan family outings and activities. Expose your child to a variety of stimulating experiences. If she shows an interest in sports or wants to play a musical instrument, give her the opportunity to do so. Encourage her efforts and applaud her successes. Take your child to museums, plays and movies. Take the family to the zoo. Create a learning-focused, stimulating environment.
4. Make It Easy to Learn
Provide a clean, quiet, and well-organized place for your child to study and set aside a time for him to do so. Work with him to complete homework assignments. Provide tutoring, if needed. Also, make sure your child gets enough rest, good nutrition and family support.
