The first in our series on top tips and resources for working with dyslexic learners at home comes from Jo Guilar, a local dyslexia specialist and longtime Bell House collaborator. She has shared 8 key ideas and considerations for setting up home school life to make it as productive, positive and low-stress as possible for parents and children with a learning difference.
1. Time to adjust
The children need time to adjust to their new school week outside the classroom. They will be finding the new way of working as challenging as the parent. This is a difficult and confusing time for children as well.
2. Agree a schedule
Try to establish a routine that is set out on a sheet of paper for everyone to sign up to. Let the child get involved in this process so that they feel ownership of their new timetable. They are more likely to adhere to the new ways of working if they feel part of it.
3. Short works best
Dyslexic students work most effectively in short 20 minute slots with breaks in between. Sitting for long periods of time without the chance to move, stretch, re-hydrate will be counterproductive.
4. Healthy energy
Try to keep snacks healthy during the day and keep a filled water bottle at hand to avoid dehydration. Avoid high sugar snacks and fizzy drinks. Keep the chocolate biscuit for a treat at 3pm.
5. Eat together
All stop and enjoy a lunch break together if you can. Family meals are invaluable. Ask your child what they’ve learnt that morning. Over-learning is a key success criteria for a dyslexic student.
6. Reading time
Set aside a time in the day for reading for 30 mins. If you do not have the time to sit and read with your child, or if independent reading is a challenge for the child, an audio book will be just as good. Exposure to literature in any form is better than none.
7. Teach life skills
Teach life skills as these are important and useful. Teach them life skills at home: cooking, crafting, DIY, gardening. It's still learning but can be fun. Cooking covers maths, science, English, art, geography — in fact all areas can be covered with just cooking and a bit of imagination!
8. Be kind and realistic
Finally… be realistic and do not set goals that are unachievable for yourself as a parent trying to home school or for your child trying to reach their full potential.
Remember, prior to the lockdown, school was reaching the end of term when all children are ready for a break and some rest. For all you parents and carers at home, don't stress over home schooling and be kind to yourselves.