Dyslexia is complex. It’s magnificent, colorful, bright, exciting. Exploding with possibilities. Dyslexia is also challenging. But the challenges can be lessened with the proper resources. That’s why I write Children’s Books in Dyslexic Font.
When our kids are itty bitty we stare into their adorable faces and we plan. We dream and hope and build certain expectations.
The children start school, and everyone is excited. A new and glorious adventure awaits! Except…… it’s not so glorious. It’s frustrating and confusing and there are enough tears to flood the basement.
You hear the words dyslexia, dysgraphia, and possibly ADHD and it’s overwhelming. You have to re-think basically everything in the entire universe….or at least it feels that way!
What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a common condition that makes it hard to read. Some experts believe that between 5 and 10 percent of people have it. Others say as many as 17 percent of people show signs of reading challenges.
Kids with dyslexia don’t outgrow it. But there are teaching approaches and strategies, even children’s books in dyslexic font, that can help people with dyslexia improve their reading skills and manage the challenges.
It is important to understand that when a dyslexic person “sees” letters or words reversed or mixed up, there is usually nothing wrong with their eyes. The problem is in the way the mind interprets what the eyes see — like an optical illusion, except this mismatch between what illusion and reality happens with ordinary print on a page.
A Mom’s Perspectives on Dyslexia
Dyslexia is complex. It’s magnificent, colorful, bright, exciting. Exploding with possibilities. Dyslexia is also challenging. The world has forgotten that a piece of paper is simply a mashup of wood. Instead, this flattened pulp and the symbols marked on it has become the pinnacle of intelligence.
Strange isn’t it, that we can be judged so harshly by something a baby can shred with its tiny fingers?
I’m not saying reading isn’t a precious gift. Oh, it is! Books can be life changing. Words are powerful. They open doorways and eyes, bring laughter and tears, spark ideas and sweep us along on glorious adventures!
One of my deepest desires was for my children to know the joy of reading. We all know that words are a valuable tool. An informative and priceless resource, one that I treasure. But that’s what reading is. A tool. A joy. An adventure. A gift. An opportunity. One that more children can experience with tools like Children’s Books in Dyslexic Font.
Reading should not be a weapon. Not an idol. Not a measurement of worth. Certainly not a window into the vast depths of knowledge unique to each of us. Knowledge is fluid and ever-changing.
I cannot build a brick wall with a piece of paper or learn the texture of bread dough from a pen. I cannot plant a garden with ink or learn to swim while gripping a book. Reading can certainly enhance and assist those pursuits, but it is only a part of the whole.
Remove Expectations
So, we remove all expectations. No more pressure. No more timelines of when they are “supposed” to be reading. It is so freeing, and with that freedom comes joy. Peace. Confidence rebuilt.
Reading isn’t the boss of your child. They are the boss of reading. For kids, this is a powerful mental image.
Don’t forget, sweet Mama, that children with dyslexia are most often not ready to read or write legibly until they are older, possibly even 12-13. (Severe cases) That is ok! It can be incredibly taxing on the nerves and patience, but waiting until they are ready is worth it.
Dyslexic children are brilliant! Their minds are incredible, and it’s fascinating to watch them at work. Help your kids blossom into their strengths, and their weaknesses will naturally and subtly come along for the ride. If you are reading this and are frustrated and worried and feeling like things are never going to fall into place… I hear you! I’ve been there too. (Still am with my littlest) I’m just a Mama fumbling my way along, right there with you! One moment….one day at a time. Our children are capable. Strong. Courageous. They are going to be ok. And so are we, Mama, so are we.
Children’s Books in Dyslexic Font
Meanwhile, dissatisfied with the lack of reading material available for out-of-the-box kids, I decided to write a Children’s Book in Dyslexic Font with large print…for our precious children. I had so much fun I wrote another one, and another….. you can find my books at Books For Me Too.
Inspired by my husband and kids with dyslexia, I am continuing to write children’s books in dyslexic font with large print, including historically based stories, created with homeschooling family’s in mind.
More Special Needs Homeschooling:
About Rachel Smith
Rachel Smith is a homesteading, homeschooling mom of three, who lives with her family in Alaska. When not receiving treatments for a debilitating illness, Rachel can be found cooking wholesome meals, writing and exploring the Alaskan wilderness with her family.
Rachel also writes interactive journals/planners for homeschooling moms with chronic illness, and kiddos with sick moms. Be sure to check out all her resources at Books for Me Too.
Rachel has a deep desire to be an encouragement to other family’s in similar situations, and loves to hear from little readers and Moms in need of a listening ear.
Homeschooling since 2000, Tricia faces a daily dose of chaos with five children. She has seen the fruits of home education with three grads so far! With their You ARE an artist art curriculum she, "Nana" and her family are passionate about growing a love of art. She also shares helpful homeschool habits at Your Best Homeschool and is author of the book, Help! I’m Homeschooling! She and her husband, Steve, are owners of The Curriculum Choice.
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