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The Three Levels of Dyslexia

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As a parent, it’s important to know that there are three different levels of dyslexia. This knowledge and other information will help you effectively advocate for your child in school.

First, let’s review the basic definition of dyslexia. This common learning disability affects the way the brain processes written and spoken language. It can make reading and writing difficult for children, but the good news is that with the right support and interventions, children with dyslexia can succeed in school.

Three Levels of Dyslexia

Mild dyslexia may not be noticeable until a child starts school and struggles with reading and writing. Signs of mild dyslexia in preschool and elementary-aged children may include:

  • difficulty pronouncing words
  • trouble rhyming
  • difficulty learning the alphabet
  • include slow or inaccurate reading
  • poor spelling
  • difficulty with phonemic awareness.

 In middle and high school-aged children, signs may include difficulty with grammar, comprehension, and expressing thoughts in writing.

Interesting fact: For children with dyslexia to reach their highest reading potential, the disorder must be remediated before age seven or eight using intensive, explicit reading interventions.

Moderate dyslexia is more noticeable and may require more intensive interventions and support. Signs of moderate dyslexia may include:

  • difficulty with reading fluency
  • trouble decoding words
  • poor spelling
  • struggles with reading comprehension
  • problems with written language

Severe dyslexia is the most challenging level and may require specialized instruction and accommodations. Signs of severe dyslexia may include:

  • very slow or inaccurate reading
  • poor spelling
  • significant difficulties with comprehension
  • problems with written expression
  • difficulty with handwriting
  • problems with written language

How Parents Can Advocate for Their Child

As a parent, it’s important to advocate for your dyslexic child in school. This may involve requesting a formal evaluation for dyslexia, working with teachers and specialists to develop an individualized education plan (IEP), and ensuring that your child receives appropriate accommodations and support.

Some accommodations for dyslexic students may include extra time on tests, audiobooks, speech-to-text software, and reading interventions.

It’s also important to educate yourself and become more aware about dyslexia and how it affects your child. Joining a support group or seeking out resources from dyslexia organizations can help you connect with other parents and learn more about dyslexia.

Remember that each child with dyslexia is unique, and what works for one child may not necessarily work for another.

By understanding the three different levels of dyslexia and advocating for your child in school, you can be the catalyst for your child to receive the support and interventions they need to succeed academically and unlock their full potential. Dyslexia is not a barrier to success – get out there and find the right support and accommodations. In you live in Arizona, we may be able to help. See rockwoodprep.com to learn more.

Intervention for the 3 Levels of Dyslexia

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Children who struggle with sounding out words, reading, and understanding what they have read may have a learning disorder called dyslexia.

Research tells us that between five and 20% of the population are experiencing reading challenges. That’s why it is essential that we identify this learning disability early and understand that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. 

There are three main levels of dyslexia. 

The three levels of dyslexia are:

  1. Mild dyslexia: Children with mild dyslexia may have difficulty recognizing or processing phonemes (the smallest units of sound in a language) and may struggle with decoding words. They may also have trouble with spelling and reading fluency. These children often benefit from targeted interventions and structured literacy instruction to help them improve their reading skills.
  2. Moderate dyslexia: Children with moderate dyslexia may have more severe difficulties with reading and language processing. They may struggle to recognize letter-sound correspondences, blend sounds together to read words, and comprehend what they read. These children may require more intensive interventions and support from specialized educators or reading specialists.
  3. Severe dyslexia: Children with severe dyslexia have significant challenges with reading and language processing. They may have trouble recognizing letters and words, spelling words correctly, and understanding written text. These children may benefit from individualized instruction and interventions that target their specific learning needs.

CURRENT DEFINITION AND SYMPTOMS OF DYSLEXIA

Dyslexia is a learning disability that hinders a person’s ability to read by affecting spelling, writing, and comprehension skills. 

Dyslexia is not a learning disability that a child will outgrow, so it’s important to pursue a diagnosis and implement strategies to improve reading ability at a young age. 

Anyone can be diagnosed with dyslexia. Often, individuals with dyslexia can be very creative and intelligent yet struggle with basic reading skills. https://rockwoodprep.com/decoding-dyslexia/

Dyslexia symptoms include:

  • Difficulty learning new words
  • Delayed speech development
  • Difficulty with rhyming words
  • Confusing letters for each other
  • Reading below the expected level for age
  • Grammar issues
  • Problems spelling
  • Poor sentence structure
  • Lack of phonemic awareness
  • Avoidance of reading aloud
  • Difficulty copying words from a secondary source

In addition, there are subtle behavioral signs to watch for in children with dyslexia, including:

  • Withdrawal from peers
  • Depression
  • Misbehavior or acting out
  • Self-esteem issues
  • Peer and sibling relationship difficulties
  • Loss of interest in school 
  • Appearing unmotivated or lazy

Recognizing early symptoms of dyslexia can help diagnose the disability sooner, providing a more significant overall opportunity to improve. SOURCE: neurohealthah.com 

SARAH’S STORY

Sarah, a 9-year-old girl, loved school in kindergarten, seemed to withdraw in first grade and seemed unmotivated to work on homework or reading assignments. By second grade it was clear that Sarah was struggling in school and falling behind her peers in reading. 

After a comprehensive evaluation, Sarah was diagnosed with moderate dyslexia. With the support of a reading specialist, Sarah began receiving targeted interventions that focused on phonics, decoding skills, and reading comprehension. 

Over the next six months, Sarah’s reading skills improved, and she became more confident in her ability to read and understand written text. This led to an improvement in her motivation to work on assignments at school and at home. Sarah will continue to receive intervention help and some ABA therapy for the rest of the school year. 

WHAT RESEARCH TELLS US

Research has shown that dyslexia is a neurobiological disorder that affects the way the brain processes language and reading. Studies have also identified differences in brain function and structure in individuals with dyslexia compared to typical readers[1].

Understanding the three levels of mild, moderate, and severe dyslexia and providing appropriate interventions can help children like Sarah overcome their reading difficulties and reach their full potential.

At Rockwood Prep we know that it is essential for parents and teachers to be aware of the three levels of dyslexia and to provide targeted support and interventions for children who are struggling with reading and language processing. 

By working together and implementing evidence-based practices, we can help children with dyslexia thrive academically and socially.

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3499031/

Why a Private School May Be the Answer

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Private Schools for Learning Disabilities

As a parent of a child with learning disabilities, it can be a difficult decision to choose the right educational setting for your child. 

While many public schools are equipped to provide services for children with learning disabilities, a private school that specializes in supporting these students may be the best option for your child. 

Private schools for children with learning disabilities offer:

  • a smaller class size
  • individualized instruction
  • social behavioral technicians
  • respite care and activities
  • specialized support services tailored to meet the unique needs of each student 

This type of personalized approach to learning can lead to greater academic success and improved self-confidence for your child.

One of the biggest advantages of a private school for children with learning disabilities is the expertise and experience of the staff. 

Teachers and administrators at these schools are often trained in working with students with learning disabilities and have a deep understanding of the challenges these students face. They can provide the guidance and support necessary for your child to thrive academically and socially.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH LEANING DISABILITIES

Many private schools, like Rockwood Prep, who cater to students who have different learning modalities due to dyslexia, ADHD, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, and other spectrum disorders offer additional services that are critical to the emotional and intellectual well-being of students.

Some of these services include:

  • ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)
  • Life Skill Training
  • DTT (Discrete Trial Training)
  • Habilitation
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Physical Therapy
  • Respiratory Therapy
  • Respite Care 
  • Speech Therapy / Feeding Therapy
  • Transportation 
  • Work Transition Programs

Additionally, private schools for children with learning disabilities often have access to resources and technology that may not be available in a public school setting. This can further enhance your child’s educational experience and help them reach their full potential.

IS A PRIVATE SCHOOL RIGHT FOR YOUR STUDENT?

Children and young adults diagnosed with learning disabilities, require help with more than traditional academic difficulties to be happy and successful, they also need strategies to  learn how to manage:

  • Sensory Issues
  • Low Processing Speed
  • Nonverbal Learning Disorders
  • Social Communication Disorders
  • Developmental Immaturity
  • Low Working Memory
  • Anxiety and Other Mood Disorders

MAKING A PRIVATE SCHOOL AFFORDABLE

While the cost of a private school education can be a barrier for many families, there are resources available to help offset the expense. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid options are commonly available for students with learning disabilities.

Organizations such as the Learning Disabilities Association of America and the National Center for Learning Disabilities offer resources and information on financial assistance for parents of children with learning disabilities.

Private education schools like Rockwood Prep, located in Arizona, assist students and their parents find financial help. Over 95% of our students utilize the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) to fund their tuition.

ESA application can be obtained by visiting the ESA Department of Education website to review eligibility requirements and complete an application. 

With specialized support services, experienced staff, and access to resources, private schools can help your child succeed academically and build confidence in their abilities. By exploring financial aid options and scholarships, you may be able to make this valuable educational opportunity a reality for your child.

ADHD Kids Who Lie

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Children lie for many reasons.

Children who have been diagnosed with ADHD tend to lie more often. That’s because children with ADHD have trouble with executive functions like:

  • managing time
  • paying attention
  • remembering details
  • planning and organization
  • and multitasking

Much of the time children with ADHD don’t lie to be dishonest. Lying is a symptom of their condition.

Think about it this way.

You tell Johnny to help his little brother pick up his toys. It doesn’t happen. When you ask Johnny about it, he tells you that you never asked him to help. Johnny wasn’t paying attention to you and never processed your request.

The Different Processes of the ADHD Brain

Researchers studying part of the brain called the caudate nucleus have discovered that this area of the brain brings information together from different parts of the brain to assist with cognitive functions, like memory.

“The study indicated that this portion of the brain is smaller in people with ADHD. Other research found that people with ADHD don’t use the anterior cingulate cortex. This region of the brain helps focus attention.” Source: Additudemag.com

Kids with ADHD will lie at times (like all people on the planet) because they want to avoid getting into trouble or being shamed.

They will also lie because they may be processing information slowly but notice the expectation for a quick answer, so they make one up on the spot.

Being impulsive is another reason kids with ADHD lie. There are times when a child will tell a lie before they process whether what they are saying is true.

By far, the number one reason children lie is that they fear getting in trouble. They don’t want to admit to, or always know how to handle:

  • friendships and relationships
  • poor grades
  • disappointing others and punishments
  • being shamed at school or rejected for missing assignments or progress chart participation

How to Help ADHD Kids Who Lie

First, it is not in your child’s best interest to accept or cover up, a lie. Unchecked lying that happens too often reinforces that a child has no accountability for their actions which can lower self-esteem and set up behavioral problems in the future.

Additionally, punishment-based approaches to lying seldom work with neurodivergent kids.

  1. Never shame a child who has lied. It is much better to talk to them about trusting and believing what they say. Help them understand what they could have done differently.
  2. Remember that lying is often a symptom of ADHD. Your job is to help your child to learn that they must stop and think before giving an honest answer.
  3. Don’t ask questions that set a child up to lie: “Did you do this?” Instead say, “How are you going to fix this or make this right?”
  4. Many times, a lie can be hedged before it is spoken, if you can ensure that the child heard the request, processed the information correctly, and has simple steps to follow.

A good reminder for all adults is to remember that kids with ADHD are at a higher risk for:

  • eating disorders
  • substance abuse
  • teen pregnancy
  • trouble with the law
  • not graduating high school
  • automobile accidents
  • teen pregnancy

We can help our children understand and manage the consequences of lying. For more information, we suggest the following reading material:

The Boy Who Cried Wolf ADHD Style

https://parentingadhdandautism.com/2014/04/boy-cried-wolf-adhd-style/

The Truth About ADHD and Lying

The Truth about ADHD and Lying

ADHD and Lying: Why Does Your Child Lie?

https://drroseann.com/adhd-and-lying-why-does-your-child-lie/

Using Inquiry-Based Learning at Home and Classroom

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Inquiry Based Learning

The definition of Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) is a focus on using children’s natural curiosity and questions to teach them new skills and concepts. (Gholam 2019).

Studies have shown that when we work with a child’s natural way of learning and not against it, we maximize their learning potential. IBL starts by asking students a question and then giving them the freedom to explore and develop strategies to answer the question.

When it comes to teaching our children parents and teachers want the same thing:

Why It Works

  1. To reinforce the love of being inquisitive and ready to learn
  2. To retain what they’ve learned
  3. To take the initiative for their learning and education
  4. To gain confidence and apply what they’ve learned

Inquiry-based learning is very effective in stimulating a child’s critical thinking skills because this process of learning teaches collaboration, differentiation, reflection, and problem-solving. It can be extremely motivating for many students.

Since our brains are wired differently, some children will struggle to think creatively or to remain curious during the process.

As teachers and parents recognize their students’ preferred learning style, they can adjust Inquiry-based learning by allowing the child to present their findings through written, verbal, role-playing, or art.

How to Get Started

Inquiry-based learning works under the premise that children want to explore. Applying this teaching style becomes so much easier once you understand and leverage your students’ interests.

In the classroom, start with student-led experiments. Ask a question about math or science. Then give students the chance to discuss potential solutions or answers to the question. Once they have collaborated and decided on an answer, they can then begin with some hands-on experimenting to see if the answer they come up with is a correct assumption.

If it isn’t they start over exploring, researching, and collaborating. Then more hands-on experimenting until they arrive at the correct answer. Your responsibility as the teacher, is to guide and make suggestions when needed so that your students don’t become frustrated and want to quit.

IBL is especially effective in diverse classrooms with varying learning styles and needs.

At home, a parent could ask their child about growing plants. What do plants need to grow? Allow your child to explore all the possibilities and conduct research to determine the answer. Then encourage them to plant and care for a small garden based on what they have learned.

Inquiry-based learning is effective when the teacher or parent follows this pattern:

  • Ask questions
  • Model patterns of thinking
  • Teach problem-solving strategies
  • Reinforce collaboration, reflection, and differentiation
  • Help the child transfer learned knowledge and skills to new situations

When we give children more control over how they learn, we also give them more confidence so they can build upon their successes and have a desire to become engaged and motivated lifelong learners.

Foods that Help Nourish Kids with ADHD

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ADHD Foods

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects many children’s ability to concentrate, manage impulses, and stay on task. While it is crucial to approach ADHD treatment from various angles, such as therapy and educational support, nutrition plays a significant role in supporting focus, cognitive function, and overall well-being for children with ADHD. 

Eleven percent of children from ages 4 to 17 have been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD. The majority of them take ADHD medications to control the symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

So, do think that simple dietary changes can dramatically help manage ADHD? Peer-reviewed studies say that it can.

So, let’s explore what ADHD is, highlight the connection between nutrition and learning, and provide a comprehensive list of foods and supplements to help children with ADHD. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of avoiding certain foods and substances that can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.

UNDERSTANDING ADHD 

To understand how ADHD impacts learning it’s crucial to know that ADHD is a neurodevelopment disorder that is characterized by an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to difficulties with attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. 

These challenges can significantly impact a child’s academic performance and social interactions. Fortunately, proper nutrition can offer support in managing ADHD symptoms and enhancing cognitive function.

THE ROLE OF NUTRITION IN ENHANCING LEARNING 

Listed below are seven groups of foods that can help and nourish kids with ADHD. But let’s not stop there; these foods can benefit everyone with better focus and faster recall.

  1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fats found in fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds have shown promising results in improving attention span and focus for children with ADHD. Consider incorporating fatty fish like salmon into the diet or supplementing with high-quality fish oil capsules.
  2. Protein-Rich Foods: Proteins are crucial for neurotransmitter production and stable blood sugar levels, both of which play a vital role in sustaining focus. Choose lean meats, poultry, eggs, and plant-based protein sources such as legumes, tofu, and quinoa.
  3. Complex Carbohydrates: Including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in a child’s diet helps maintain a steady release of glucose into the bloodstream, providing a stable source of energy and supporting sustained attention levels.
  4. Iron and Zinc-Rich Foods: Iron and zinc deficiencies have been associated with ADHD symptoms. Incorporate foods like lean red meat, chicken, spinach, beans, and pumpkin seeds into your child’s diet to ensure adequate intake of these nutrients.
  5. B Vitamins: B vitamins, particularly B6 and B12, are essential for neurotransmitter synthesis and promoting optimal cognitive function. Include fortified breakfast cereals, eggs, dairy products, leafy greens, and lean meats to provide a sufficient dose of these vitamins.

PROMISING SUPPLEMENTS FOR ADHD SUPPORT 

While a well-balanced diet should be the primary focus, certain supplements can provide additional support for children with ADHD:

  • Omega-3 Fish Oil: High-quality fish oil supplements rich in EPA and DHA can help alleviate ADHD symptoms.
  • Magnesium and Zinc: These mineral supplements have shown potential in improving cognitive function and reducing hyperactivity. Consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosages.

FOCUS ON GUT HEALTH 

New studies suggest that there may be a bidirectional relationship between the gut microbiome and the central nervous system. Check in with your medical provider to add probiotics and other supplements to improve your child’s digestive health. 

ADHD ELIMINATION DIET 

Some ADHD and diet research suggests that an elimination diet can be an effective way of finding dietary triggers.

An elimination diet starts with removing casein (found in dairy products like milk and cheese) and gluten (wheat, barley, and rye) from your child’s meals to see if there is a marked difference in hyperactivity and focus.

After three weeks, you can reintroduce dairy products one at time and gauge your child’s response. Gluten must be removed from the diet for three months in order to determine if positive changes have occurred during that time period.

FOODS AND SUBSTANCES TO AVOID 

As a parent, it is equally important to be aware of the foods and substances that may worsen ADHD symptoms in kids. Avoid the following:

Processed Foods and Artificial Additives: These include sugary snacks, processed meats, artificial food colorings, and preservatives. These substances may contribute to hyperactivity and poor attention spans.

Artificial dyes, notably Red #40, Blue #2, Yellow #5, and Yellow #6, tend to trigger hyperactivity in many kids. 

Caffeine and High–Sugar Beverages: Limit or eliminate caffeinated beverages such as soda and energy drinks, as well as excessive consumption of high-sugar juices. These can heighten restlessness and disrupt sleep patterns.

One of the worst culprits of a disruptive food additive is the preservative sodium benzoate. This substance is most commonly found in soda, fruit juices, jams, salad dressings, and pickles. Please read ingredient labels to eliminate this specific food additive.

While nutrition alone may not be a cure for ADHD, it is an essential component of comprehensive support and management for children with the disorder. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, complex carbohydrates, iron, zinc, and B vitamins can contribute to improved focus, attention, and overall cognitive function.

By avoiding processed foods, artificial additives, and excessive caffeine, parents can further enhance their child’s ability to overcome learning disabilities associated with ADHD. 

The content is this article are personal opinions with some research notations. Each child is different, so remember to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized guidance and advice tailored to your child’s needs.

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/data.html

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