Parenting strategies to nurture dyslexic children and their growth

Credit to Marta Wave

Children are more than their dyslexia

Dyslexia is a learning difference that affects reading, writing, and spelling abilities. It is a common condition that affects up to 1 in 10 people worldwide, and while it can be a challenging journey for children and their parents, it is important to remember that dyslexia does not define a child’s potential or future success.

By focusing on their strengths and nurturing their talents, parents can help their children thrive with dyslexia and achieve their full potential.

Strengths-based parenting is an approach that emphasizes a child’s strengths and positive attributes, rather than their weaknesses. For children with dyslexia, who may struggle academically but have unique talents and abilities in other areas, this approach can be especially powerful. By focusing on their strengths, parents can help their children develop a positive self-image, boost their confidence, and foster a love of learning.

Find your child’s unique talents - and help him/her showcase them!

The first step in strengths-based parenting is understanding what your child’s unique strengths are. Parents know this intuitively about their children, but can stay open to discovering new talents through observation, feedback from teachers and other adults, and even assessments (think music, sports, arts, mathematics….other areas where your child may prove to have a natural talent!).

Once you have identified your child’s strengths, nurture them through activities and opportunities that allow your child to not only develop, but also showcase their talents.

Create an inspiring learning environment

Parents can also create a strengths-based learning environment at home by incorporating their child’s strengths into their learning experiences. For example, if your child is interested in sports, use sports-related themes and activities to teach reading and writing skills. If your child has a talent for music, incorporate music into their learning by using songs and artists references.

Instill a growth-mindset

In addition to nurturing their strengths, parents can help their children with dyslexia develop a growth mindset. A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through hard work and perseverance. This mindset is essential for children with dyslexia, who may face academic challenges but have unique talents and abilities.

Parents can help their children develop a growth mindset by emphasizing effort and progress over grades and test scores. Encourage your child to set goals and celebrate their successes, no matter how small.

Help compensate for areas of weakness

Children with dyslexia may need accommodations in school to help them succeed academically. These accommodations can include extra time on tests, the use of assistive technology, and alternative methods of assessment. As a parent, it’s important to advocate for these accommodations and work with your child’s teachers to create a plan that meets their individual needs.

Find your peers

Parenting a child with dyslexia can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Connecting with a support network of other parents, educators, and professionals can provide guidance, support, and encouragement.

Seek out resources such as support groups, advocacy organizations, and educational specialists who can help you navigate the journey of parenting a child with dyslexia.

In conclusion, parenting a child with dyslexia can be a challenging journey, but it’s also an opportunity to nurture their strengths and help them achieve their full potential. By adopting a strengths-based approach, identifying and nurturing their talents, creating a strengths-based learning environment, building a growth mindset, advocating for accommodations, and connecting with a support network, parents can help their children with dyslexia thrive and succeed.

Remember, dyslexia does not define a child’s potential or future success – it’s their unique strengths and talents that can lead them to success.