How To Handle Children With Reading Disorders

By Catalina Nielsen


Every child needs to understand words to enable him/her cope with learning. If this is not possible, the affected individual will not only face challenges in learning, but in life as well. It is not easy to detect. In fact, some are only noticed once the child has begun schooling. There are two main reading disorders.

The most common reading disability is dyslexia. This condition manifests itself as a difficulty in learning, comprehension fluency and decoding words. This condition is believed to have three cognitive subtypes, which are auditory, visual and attentional. Although its causes are numerous, it does not affect the IQ in any way.

Hyperlexia is the other less known reading disorder. This is more of a super ability as the affected individuals demonstrate a higher ability to read and comprehend words that are above their level of intelligence. Such individuals normally have higher IQs despite the fact that they may struggle with understanding speech.

There are many theories that try to elucidate on approaches that can help children with learning disorders. This area has seen a lot of research to understand the underlying problems to help deal with the real situation. However, some of the suggestions still face controversies. Below are some simple steps that can help you assist a child with such a condition.

Playing word games can help with recognition. Puzzles and word games are quite enjoyable. They build the ability of the child to understand difficult words as well as vocabulary. You can try things such as crossword puzzles, Scrabble, word bingo, or Boggle.

Make reading aloud a habit. Encourage the child to read common things such as street signs, directions, and labels. This does not have to be at home or in the classroom; it can be done anywhere the opportunity presents itself including in the car or store. It will be easier for them to learn when they do it in turns.

Make the activity exciting. When children see others enjoying learning, they will also attempt to engage in the act. When this is done on a daily basis, they will make significant improvements in the words they use more often.

Offer a lot of encouragement. It is not advisable to show anger or any negative emotions when the progress is slow. Instead, you should appreciate the little steps they are taking. Engage the child in discussion over what you have just read. Make them explain what they have understood so that they can apply the information.

Make the child listen to books. He/she may benefit from listening to textbooks. You can also use trade books, tapes or other recordings. It is also important to use assistive technologies such as screen readers to help them see the words.

Read to the child every day before bed. This has been shown to develop the language of the learner. It is even more beneficial if the novel is above the level of intelligence of the learner.

Children with reading disorders learn best when they use multiple senses. Multi-sensory instruction enables the child to hear, see, touch, and act out words. All these sense should be put to use to help the individual engage and learn faster.




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