Children with dyslexia know that they’re different from their peers, but they don’t truly know why or how. Our dyslexia learning center near Neptune hears it all the time: frustrated children who think they’re stupid and talk badly about themselves also talk like that around their parents, which can be heartbreaking. So what can parents do to stem the tide of negative self-talk from a child with dyslexia? Follow our tips and learn more on how to have an easier time at home.
Empathy Is Key
First, try to understand where your child is coming from. When they’re at school, they are surrounded by many students who don’t have a reading difficulty. It’s hard for them to believe that they’re not stupid when they compare themselves to their peers, but it’s important to get them to understand that they are just as bright as their peers, but they just need a little assistance.
Rather than simply offer reassurance, which can seem dismissive, work to address the underlying problem by offering comments that indicate that you understand how they feel. For example, when they make a negative comment about themselves, tell them “this assignment must be difficult!” This shows that they’re intelligent, but that the task ahead is a challenge.
Discover the Root of the Problem
If your child is having a tough time reading or writing, but hasn’t been diagnosed with dyslexia, we suggest a dyslexia evaluation at our location near Neptune. It will help your child to understand that it’s a challenge that isn’t their fault, and then you can move forward with other helpful ways to stem negative self-talk, such as reminding them not to talk that way about themselves, that they’re working hard towards their goal, and giving them choices throughout the day (such as what to wear that day or where to do their homework). It helps give them a sense of empowerment that may be compromised by their struggles with reading and writing.
As your child copes with dyslexia, we recommend a set curriculum and specialized education that accommodates their challenges. Contact us today to learn about our strategies to help your child become a more successful pupil. We look forward to talking to you!