School for Dyslexia

Some families are content just having their dyslexic kids attend a school with a learning disabilities program. Other parents and guardians prefer a school for learning disabilities. Attending a good school for dyslexia will help dyslexic kids tremendously with their learning difficulties. It is all about finding a school which is best for your child and family.

Why choose a school for dyslexia?

A family might consider sending their child to a school for dyslexia and might not be sure if it will make a difference. There are various reasons to choose a school for dyslexia:

•     Smaller schools – Parents and guardians will discover that their children may begin to improve their learning skills when they attend a dyslexia school. Many of these schools have smaller class sizes compared to public schools. A small class will not limit a child but give him or her a better environment to learn.
•     Teachers with specialized training – There is a big difference between a public school with a learning disabilities program and a school for dyslexia. A school for dyslexia will have teachers and staff with specialized training. The staff in such a school are familiar with the difficulties and struggles associated with dyslexia. The school may provide access to a speech-language therapist or a reading specialist. Students will receive lessons which are customized for them and focused on their needs.
•     Better technology – Technology has advanced tremendously, and this includes the assistive technology used in learning and education. A school for children with dyslexia can have assistive technology that would not normally be found in other schools. A school such as this may also give a child access to software and devices that will help a child with dyslexia.
•     Surrounded by peers – Dyslexia may not only affect a child’s learning abilities but also their confidence and self-esteem. Having a school where classmates have the same condition as your child may improve how they feel about themselves. They will realize that other people around them have the same condition. As they grow older, some of these classmates may turn into friends that they can talk to about their difficulties and they can support each other.

How to start the process

Starting the process to find a school for dyslexia might appear daunting. However, creating a step-by-step plan will help. It is a good idea for families to involve the child who will be attending the school in the process from early on. This can help the child during the transition process from going to school for the first time or switching schools. Here are some things to think about as you look for a school:

1. Professional assessment – One of the first steps is to get a copy of your child’s professional assessment or evaluation. The school will want to see if your child has been tested and which dyslexia symptoms your child may have. This will help teachers to understand how dyslexia affects your child and how to customize a learning plan based on the signs of dyslexia in your son or daughter. Some families might not have a professional assessment done, and they are encouraged to do so. The school will need this information to provide individualized help.
2. Reach out to the current school – It could be a good idea to reach out to your child’s current school for help finding a school for dyslexia. The guidance counselor or learning disabilities department of a public school may have resources to guide parents on finding the best school. They might know of schools that other students have transferred to.
3. Ask other parents – Other parents who have children with dyslexia might be a resource to consider. Your support network of friends may have suggestions for a quality school for your child. The Internet can also give you information about schools that are located nearby or in another state. The best school for your child might be one that is not nearby, and they may have to board.
4. Contact any prospective schools – Once parents and guardians have a list of schools they would like to consider, the next step is to contact these schools. Calling the school to discuss the type of education they provide and what you are searching for will give you more information about what the school offers and how they may help. Parents and guardians should then make an appointment to visit schools they are interested in.