Dyslexia District

Have you ever wondered why so many students with dyslexia also struggle with attention, math, or language? In this episode, we dive deep into the world of comorbidities. That’s when dyslexia shows up with other learning differences. Discover the latest research on why these conditions are often seen together, learn to recognize the warning signs, and get practical, evidence-based strategies for bo...

The Science of Reading explained - why reading can be hard, what research shows, and how the right instruction helps kids succeed. Resources: - The National Reading Panel (2000) - https://bit.ly/reading-panel-report - Dr. Mark Seidenberg - Language at the Speed of Sight - https://a.co/d/0cF6Rujx - Dr. Louisa Moats - https://louisamoats.com/ - Mississippi Reading Improvements News - https://bit.ly/...

In this episode, we dive into what the research actually says about supporting students with dyslexia so they can thrive academically. We explore classroom practices, instructional methods, mindset shifts, and the most effective assistive technology tools used today for reading, writing, and executive-function support. This episode is perfect for educators, evaluators, parents, and literacy enthus...

Learn the key differences between IEPs and 504 plans and discover research-backed strategies for building positive school partnerships that help students thrive. A clear, compassionate guide for parents, educators, and anyone navigating special education. RESOURCES • Overview of IDEA — U.S. Department of Education • Section 504 overview — U.S. Dept. of Education • Practical brief: Partnering with...

Does your child avoid writing assignments, feel frustrated during homework, or struggle with handwriting that’s hard to read? These may be signs of dysgraphia , a learning difference that impacts written expression. In this episode of Dyslexia District , Kim Smith — educator and diagnostician — takes a deep, practical look at dysgraphia. You’ll hear how it presents in children, what recent researc...

In this episode of Dyslexia District , we explore how to recognize the early signs of dyslexia in children—from preschool through early elementary school. Learn what to look for, how to respond, and why early intervention matters. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this episode offers practical insights to help every child thrive. Topics Covered: What dyslexia is (and isn’t) Early...

In today’s episode, we explore the evolving definition of dyslexia, including the current and proposed IDA definitions. We uncover common myths, clarify misconceptions, and spotlight the latest research (2020–2025) on brain networks, genetics, and early detection. Helpful links: Current IDA Definition https://dyslexiaida.org/dyslexia-basics IDA 2002 Definition (Reading Rockets PDF) https://www.rea...

Let's take a look at recent research regarding Dysgraphia and what it means for our students.

Instead of focusing on deficits and weaknesses, let's take some time to focus on the strengths students with dyslexia possess.

Ever wonder why students with dyslexia often have difficulty getting organized, prioritizing tasks, or keeping up with their stuff? It may be because of their executive functioning!

Join me as I take a deep dive into reading comprehension. We'll look at the following questions: What is reading comprehension? Why is it important? How can we target it effectively? Reading Fluency Hot Sheet - https://www.teachingld.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/DLD_FluencyHotSheet3.pdf Reading Comprehension Hot Sheet - https://www.teachingld.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/DLD_ReadingComp_HS4_re...

Take a close look at reading fluency with me. What is it, why does it matter, and how do we improve it? "Reading Fluency: The Neglected Key to Reading Success" by Timothy Rasinski - https://tinyurl.com/5n7exkxu "The Method of Repeated Readings" by S. Jay Samuels - https://tinyurl.com/mrm8sk4f "Fluency: A review of developmental and remedial practices." by Melanie R. Kuhn & Steven A. Stahl - ht...

Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem... our students walk through our doors with a wide variety of difficulties. So, how do we help them? How do we build them up? Join me as I share tips and tricks to help our students reduce the effects of stress in their daily lives. "The Labels We Carry" - https://youtu.be/hNS_D-pw8y4?si=J4-MYwk0tHIxP9kX Square Breathing - https://surreyschoolsone.ca/...

What does current research have to say about dyslexia? Are advances being made in this area? LINKS Eye Tracking Research - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lShm41AWEGSKal7ARVfYy_nAh0Fi_KhL/view?usp=sharing IDA - ⁠https://dyslexiaida.org/do-special-fonts-help-people-with-dyslexia/⁠ Fonts - Italy - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VECFUwC3AaJBS3Qf213zSbCsplUT288J/view?usp=sharing Fonts - Macedonia -...

What things should be considered when determining if an Emergent Bilingual student has dyslexia? Is it the same as determining if a native English speaker has dyslexia? What's the difference? Also, find out why the English language has words that start with "wh".

What makes the English language so hard to read and write? Listen along as I take you on a brief history of the English language and why there are so many variations in spelling and pronunciation. Click the links below to hear what English sounded like long ago: Old English (Anglo-Saxon) - https://bit.ly/3SYb1DR Middle English (Anglo-Norman) - https://bit.ly/49dRapS Shakespeare's English (Earl...

What is dyslexia? Let's break apart the accepted definitions of dyslexia and talk about what happens in the brains of people who have it. The Dyslexia Handbook (TX) The International Dyslexia Association - dyslexiaida.org

What is assistive technology and how can it help students with dyslexia and dysgraphia?

Let’s take a look at 10 popular myths surrounding dyslexia & set the record straight. A Rose Tinted Cure - Article

What happens in the brains of people with dyslexia when they read? fMRI scans have been able to tell us a lot and the results might surprise you.

Can Dyselxia impact a person's abilities in Math? Absolutely! Listen to find out how. Check out more information regarding Dyselxia and how it can affect Math performance by following the links below. Yale Center for Dyselxia and Creativity Article - Math:Processing Breakdowns

Join me as I break down dyslexia into kid-friendly terms.

What is dysgraphia, how do we test for it, and what can we do to help our students?

504 and Special Education as well as Accommodations and Modifications are often used interchangeably. However, they mean very different things. Join me as I break them down to hopefully make them easier to understand. email - DyslexiaDistrict@gmail.com Music by Stockaudios from Pixabay

In today’s episode, we’ll be talking about some of the struggles students with dyslexia face and how a positive mindset can help. For more information on Growth Mindset check out Dr. Carol Dweck's book " Mindset " and her TED Talk " Developing a Growth Mindset ".