Learning Differences:

From a Dyslexic Learner’s Point of View

“Help me to Focus”
Please teach me through my sense of “touch”.  I need “hands-on” and body movement.

“I need to know what comes next”
Please give me a structured environment where there is a dependable routine. Give me an advanced warning if there will be changes.

“Wait for me; I’m still thinking”
Please allow me to go at my own pace.  If I rush, I get confused and upset.

“I’m stuck; I can’t do it!”
Please offer me options for problem solving.  I need to know the detours when the road is blocked.

“I didn’t forget; I didn’t ‘hear’ it in the first place”
Please give me directions one step at a time, and ask me to say back what I think you said.

“I didn’t know I WASN’T in my seat!”
Please remind me to stop, think, and act.

“Am I almost done now?”
Please give me short work periods with short-term goals.

“What?”
Please don’t say, “I already told you that.”  Tell me again in different words. Give me a signal.  Draw me a symbol.

“I know, it’s ALL wrong, isn’t it?”
Please give me praise for partial success.  Reward me for self-improvement, not just for perfection.

“But why do I always get yelled at?”
Please catch me doing something right, and praise me for my specific positive behavior. Remind me (and yourself) about my good points, when I’m having a bad day.

1991, Ruth E. Harris, Northwest Reading Clinic