My child is Dyslexic. How can I help?

The most important thing you can do is to be understanding and supportive. All successful dyslexics attribute their success to a crucial someone who believed in them when they were struggling in childhood. Don't blame or put pressure on your child for not achieving. Explain to them that their dyslexia is a real physical condition, like deafness or having to wear glasses.

Usually the diagnosis in itself relieves them enormously because it shows that they are NOT stupid or lazy. Praise them for their effort as well as achievement. Encourage areas in which they can feel successful, such as creative work (e.g. verbal storytelling), modelling, hobbies or sports. Be flexible about your hopes for their choice of career. Encourage them by telling them about all the highly successful dyslexics, ranging from Einstein to Richard Branson.

It is important to explain your worries to your child’s teacher. If the teacher is aware of your child’s difficulties, they will be able to teach the child much more effectively. Also, you should get in contact with organisations that can give you further advice such as the British Dyslexia Association, the Dyslexia Institute and us, the Dyslexia Research Trust.