Dyslexic tips

In an recent article titled A Dyslexic Author's Writing Tips for Dyslexic Kids  written by tom McLaughlin it got me thinking as a teacher that has struggled with dyslexia myself what a great asset this is to pass along to any readers.  

He gives tips from a dyslexic person's perspective what a brilliant idea! Here is a list of his 10 tips: 

1. The things we struggle with are actually the most rewarding. 

• the reasoning behind this tip is we struggle so much that when we master something it feels so rewarding that we NEVER forget it! It would be like riding your bike after a long lesson.  You take that long ride and it feels so good.

2. Never be afraid to think visually. 

• reading is complicated and a struggle.  You can get it one minute and not get it the next. 

3. Try not to get angry at anyone that wants to help correct your reading.

• They are there to help you get better. You want to get better right?

4. Surround yourself by what you love.

• It helps you grow.  

5.Have corrections be made verbally instead of handwritten.  

• We remember things when they are not written down.  Having them in two ways of communication is the best key.

6.  Think of writing like this: poetry often works to a structure, you know that a certain line rhyme with another, it makes you think about words.  Its like the foundations of a house are laid out in front of you, and you have to add the walls and roof. 

• Think outside the box when writing.

7. Don't be scared of the blank piece of paper. 

• You have to start at some point just start and see where it goes. 

8. Do your homework about being dyslexic. 

• There is a ton of tips to help you!

9. When free writing don't be scared to lay it all out, it is all about you and what you have to say. 

• You can't be wrong when it is your piece of work. 

10. Go on and write something amazing!

• Don't be afraid to tell your story.  It feels good to tell and lay it out.  It is who you are! 

He has written a book here is the link to find his book it is about the power of drawing and story telling. 

http://bookshop.theguardian.com/story-machine.html

As someone that has struggled with dyslexia these tips are useful.  I am never afraid to tell someone that I have struggled with dyslexia because that is who I am.  I have learned to cope with it and at times it has been a struggle.  But, I have learned to embrace it and it has made me stronger.  I believe that it has made me a better teacher.  I can relate to my students in a way that other teachers cannot. I hope that you have learned a little from this blog and can relate to your students a little bit better. If you are a student struggling with dyslexia remember that you are not alone and that you are amazing and bright!   

Here is the link to the article I read:

http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/2015/jan/22/a-dyslexic-authors-writing-tips-for-dyslexic-kids