Helping Children with the Dyslexia Label

by Mary Orwells Writer

Despite the many symptoms common to people with this label, the majority of professionals seem to be set on a one-size-fits-all solution. It seems clear that with so many different symptoms, many aspects of human development are involved. Solutions, therefore, must be custom-fit to the individual instead of one standard treatment usually derived from an Orton/Gillingham phonics-based approach. Since Orton himself noted multiple symptoms of dyslexia, the neurodevelpmental question that begs answers is whether or not his treatment approach has been too narrow. After all, many symptoms not related to phonology were experienced.

Although the evidence in favor of the phonological weakness of dyslexics has continued to dominate the scene recently, it does not diminish the importance of the visual perceptual problems that many dyslexics report as well as the myriad of other symptoms with various causes.

How can Moms help when children are labeled as dyslexic?

When I reflected on my experiences while working with families whose children are labeled dyslexic or any label for that matter, it reminded me of how I felt all those years ago, when I searched for help for my daughter who was developmentally delayed. As a mother, I mourned over the struggles my daughter faced but God brought me hope. He reminded me that we are all fearfully and wonderfully made and He introduced me to the understanding that the brain has great ability to change. It’s called brain plasticity. God lent His comfort as I grew in my knowledge of what to do to stimulate my daughter’s brain to produce better function.

In addition to the comfort I received, I found that He is in the business of setting the captives free (those trapped in disorganized brains) which can mean the physical, emotional or spiritual needs. Before I found the help I sought, I often felt helpless to make a difference for my daughter. I continued to search and in His providence He brought me to The Neurodevelopmental Approach (ND) where she experienced life-changing results.

That was the first time that anyone looked at her as a “whole person” instead of under a microscope of a certain professional area of expertise or certification. That perspective shaped a multi-pronged approach which is needed in addressing the root causes of the symptoms that produce labels like dyslexia, ADD/ADHD, SI, PPD, OCD, ODD and a myriad of others.

Source: https://www.brainsprints.com/helping-children-with-the-dyslexia-label-part-2/