Dyslexia: Setting Realistic Expectations For Progress
Table of Contents
The Role of Expectations in Dyslexic Learners
Setting realistic expectations for progress can be a game-changer for children with dyslexia. When we set the bar too high and expect perfection, it can lead to frustration, stress, and a whole lot of tears (from both our kids and ourselves!). By setting expectations that are grounded in reality, we can ignite a spark of motivation and boost a child’s self-esteem. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where challenges are embraced, progress is celebrated, and our children can flourish at their own pace.
Factors To Consider When Setting Expectations
When it comes to setting realistic expectations for progress, we need to take a few important, dyslexia related factors into account. It’s like crafting a tailor-made plan that fits their unique abilities and learning styles.
1. Learn Individual Strengths:
Your child is a one-of-a-kind wonder, and their learning profile is as unique as a fingerprint. Take the time to understand their strengths and weaknesses. Are they a visual learner who excels in art or a hands-on learner who loves building things? Try mixing up the way they are learning if your child is struggling. Visit this website if you would like your child to take a questionnaire about their preferred learning style. Parents have found this to be a good starting point.
Example: While all of our students must master the alphabet, the journey looks different for each one. At first, we start with a standardized approach for everyone and make tweaks along the way. This process is grounded in science and research. We had a student who was having a tough time, so we made some adjustments. Initially, we tried having them use play dough to create the letters, which they loved for about two weeks, and then frustration kicked in. We decided to gamify the alphabet process and that has been a game-changer! Our student has mastered the alphabet and we have been able to use the gaming technique for future learning.
2. Understand Specific Challenges:
Dyslexia brings its own set of challenges, such as difficulties with reading, spelling, and writing. Knowing those challenges doesn’t mean we limit our expectations. Instead, we equip ourselves with knowledge and strategies to support them.
Example: Did you know that neurotypical students need 4-14 exposures to remember something long-term? Well, for our incredible dyslexic learners, it’s a different story. They typically need a minimum of 40 exposures to grasp new concepts, and that number might increase based on their unique needs. Knowing this information can help parents. For instance, we tailor our lessons to meet children where they are on their reading journey. This means introducing a new learning and reviewing it multiple days in a row until students have had a sufficient amount of exposure. By understanding the specific hurdles they may face, we can set realistic expectations that accommodate their needs.
3. Accommodate Individual Learning Pace:
Remember, it’s not a race to the finish line. Every child learns at their own pace, and that’s okay! Some may make rapid progress, while others take a more gradual approach. Embrace their unique learning journey and celebrate every small victory along the way. By adjusting our expectations to match their individual pace, we provide a supportive environment that fosters growth and confidence.
Example: The Take Flight curriculum is supposed to take about 2 years to complete. We know that every child works at their own pace so we give this timeline as a frame of reference for parents. Some of our students have finished the program in a year and others have taken 3. The goal is to individualize the learning to fit your child’s needs, not to standardize your child’s process to fit the learning. Take this mentality and apply it to your child’s life. Your child’s learning pace should dictate how long it takes them to accomplish a goal whether that be reading a book, or learning to drive.
Strategies For Setting Realistic Expectations
Let’s dive into some practical strategies for setting realistic expectations for progress that will empower your child with dyslexia soar!
1. Break Down Goals Into Achievable Steps:
Rome wasn’t built in a day, right? The same goes for progress with dyslexia. Break down big goals into smaller, manageable steps. If the goal is to learn the alphabet, break it down into learning 5 letters a time. If the goal is to read a book, break it down into sentences, paragraphs, pages, and chapters. Celebrate each milestone along the way, whether it’s mastering a new sound or decoding a tricky word.
Example: A common goal for our students is to read a level appropriate passage. We break the passage down into word groups such as instant words and multisyllabic words and practice reading them as sets. After our students have practiced enough and feel confident with word groups, then we advance to reading the passage. By chunking goals into bite-sized pieces, you’ll keep motivation high and show your child that progress is happening, one step at a time
2. Adjust Expectations Based on Individual Needs:
Remember, it’s all about their unique journey. Adjust your expectations as needed to match your child’s individual needs and learning pace. Be flexible and adaptable, tweaking goals and strategies along the way. You can start a goal with one timeline in mind but adapt it as you get new input from your children. Their learning process should drive everything.
Example: One of our students joined us towards the end of their first-grade year and could only identify a single letter of the alphabet. The family had hoped their child would know the entire alphabet within two months. Although they had learned only eight letters by the end of that period, it was still a significant achievement! On the flip side, this student had been struggling with rhyming for over a year, making no progress. However, after just 12 sessions together, their child was rhyming with ease! We maintained open communication and helped the family adjust their expectations based on their child’s individual needs. Sometimes progress is rapid, while other times it might feel like a gentle stroll. Trust the process and trust your child.
3. Celebrate Progress and Milestones:
Let’s throw a party for progress! Acknowledge and celebrate every small win, no matter how seemingly insignificant. Did they read a sentence fluently? High-five! Did they write their name without any mistakes? Woohoo!
Example: Celebrations look different for each of our students. For some, it’s a virtual high five, for others, it’s a virtual youtube dance party. Some of our students will ask their parents to come and see their success in real time. By highlighting their achievements, you’ll boost their confidence, reinforce their efforts, and fuel their determination to keep pushing forward.
4. Encourage a Growth Mindset and Resilience:
Teach your child that setbacks and challenges are just stepping stones to success. Encourage a growth mindset where they embrace the power of “yet” – “I haven’t mastered it YET.” Foster resilience by helping them develop problem-solving skills and a positive attitude towards learning. Visit our post, Dyslexia and Self-Esteem, if you would like a more in-depth explanation on how to foster resilience.
Example: Dyslexic students often face challenges in reading, writing, and spelling, which can greatly impact their self-esteem. When we encounter students who are struggling with motivation due to setbacks, it becomes a great opportunity for us. We love revisiting previous lessons and asking them to read words they previously found difficult. It’s amazing to see their progress and remind them how far they’ve come. We highlight that they can now read those words effortlessly because they persevered through tough times. With a can-do mindset, they’ll tackle obstacles head-on and keep pushing forward, no matter what.
Setting realistic expectations for progress is key to your child’s well-being on their dyslexia journey. Remember, every child’s path is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Embrace the fact that progress may come in different shapes and sizes, sometimes like a burst of fireworks, and other times like a gentle flame. Would you like more support on your journey? Let us know in the comments or reach us via our connect page!
Answering Common Questions and Concerns
- Can dyslexia be cured or outgrown?
A: Dyslexia is a lifelong condition; however, with appropriate support and interventions, individuals with dyslexia can make significant progress in their reading and learning abilities.
- How long does it typically take for a dyslexic student to make progress in reading skills?
A: Progress in reading skills varies among dyslexic students and depends on various factors such as the severity of dyslexia, early intervention, and individual learning needs. Setting realistic expectations, based on the specific needs of the student, is crucial.
- What strategies or interventions can help dyslexic students improve their reading abilities?
A: Structured literacy programs, multisensory techniques, phonics instruction, assistive technologies, and personalized instruction tailored to the individual’s strengths and weaknesses can significantly support dyslexic students in improving their reading skills.
- How can parents and educators support a dyslexic child’s learning journey while maintaining realistic expectations?
A: It is essential for parents and educators to foster a supportive and understanding environment. Celebrate progress, acknowledge individual achievements, provide targeted interventions, and communicate openly to set appropriate and attainable goals based on the child’s needs.