Understanding Dyslexia as a Neurological Learning Disability: A Plan for an Instructive Website for Parents and Early Elementary Teachers

PURPOSE: With estimates of the prevalence of dyslexia being as high as 7% of the school-age population, it is imperative that educators and parents have accurate and current knowledge about the nature of reading disabilities and the specific needs of children who have been diagnosed with or who are suspected of having developmental dyslexia. The purpose of this project is to develop a website that will serve as a clearinghouse of information about dyslexia for teachers and parents of early elementary children. PROCEDURES: Guidelines for website content include the sociocultural learning theory of Lev Vygotsky as well as the latest research by neuroscientists on causes and remediation methods for the symptoms of dyslexia. Information regarding the website will be presented to teachers throughout the school year during staff meetings. Teachers will hand out business cards for the website to parents during conferences and IEP meetings so that they know how to access the site. OUTCOME: The expected outcomes of this project are to help parents and teachers recognize the common signs of dyslexia, dispel myths about dyslexia, describe the importance of early identification and intervention, establish dyslexia as a neurological deficit, and to present resources and strategies that can help mitigate the psychological and academic damages that dyslexia can cause. IMPACT: Early elementary school teachers can do much to ameliorate the effects of dyslexia if they have the right information. This website will help teachers ensure that dyslexic children have the best chance for successful outcomes in school and life