Written by Sandie Barrie Blackley, MA/CCC
Published on August 15, 2011
I recently wrote an article on some of the challenges of learning to read, write and spell. Here are some excerpts from that longer article:
Almost 40 percent of fourth-grade students in the United States read below grade level; many more struggle with subtle reading, writing, and spelling roadblocks. How do you make sure your child does not become part of that statistic? In addition to the right materials and a good attitude, it’s also a matter of understanding your child’s brain!
Modern brain science shows that in the first three years of formal education, specialized circuits in the child’s left brain develop lightning-fast interconnections that link speech sounds, letter symbols, and meaning. Neuroscience also reveals what is different about the brains of people who struggle with reading, writing, and spelling and pinpoints instructional routines that establish more efficient brain patterns.
By the time a child is in early elementary school, parents may observe that their child’s reading and/or writing skills are not developing as expected. Those who struggle with reading, writing, and spelling fall into two main groups:
The first is described broadly as dyslexia and is far more common than the second, known as specific language impairment. (See more on dyslexia symptoms here.)
The treatments for dyslexia and specific language impairment are very different. The first critical step is a professional language processing evaluation. This is unlike a psycho-educational evaluation and, since it is focused, can be a fraction of the cost. (See more about diagnosing dyslexia here.)
Dyslexia is not outgrown, but it improves with structured practice. The “gold standard” for dyslexia treatment is the Orton-Gillingham approach, which has been used, tested, researched, and validated for more than 70 years. Successful use of Orton-Gillingham treatment is not just a matter of having the right materials and step-by-step instructions. No two dyslexics have exactly the same processing problems, so even good, off-the-shelf programs can be difficult for parents to apply without professional guidance.
Lexercise solves this problem by using web-conferencing technology to bring an experienced professional into the home to perform a language processing evaluation and then guide you in weekly, online Orton-Gillingham therapy sessions. It is private, secure, interactive, and highly motivating.
To get answers to your questions and to schedule a consultation with a clinician, please contact us at Info@Lexercise.com or 1-919-747-4557.
We appreciate your feedback and are very glad you’re visiting the Lexercise site. Please let us know if we can answer any questions.
Lexercise’s Chief Knowledge Officer (CKO) and ASHA fellow, brings a wealth of expertise in speech-language pathology and 40+ years of literacy instruction. Her background in teaching and curriculum development provides Lexercise with a solid foundation in evidence-based practices. Sandie’s profound understanding of learning disabilities and her commitment to inclusive education drive the company’s innovative approach to literacy.
Orton Gillingham tutoring is a widely accepted and effective pedagogical program, thanks for spreading awareness. Dyslexia, for many students, is manageable and can be overcome.