12/14/2024
𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝗔 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀
𝐵𝑦 𝑆ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑖 𝐾𝑎𝑙𝑘𝑒, 𝑅𝑒𝑔𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑 𝑃𝑠𝑦𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑖𝑠𝑡, 𝐶𝑎𝑙𝑔𝑎𝑟𝑦, 𝐴𝑙𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑎
As a parent, watching your child struggle with reading can be confusing and worrisome. Reading is foundational to learning and daily life, so challenges in this area often raise concerns about your child’s future success. If your child is facing persistent difficulties with reading, they may have a condition called Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) in Reading, commonly known as dyslexia. Let’s break down what this means and how you can support your child.
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𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴?
SLD in Reading is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the ability to decode and process written language. It’s not about intelligence or effort; children with SLD in Reading often work harder than their peers just to keep up. This condition can manifest in several ways, including:
• Difficulty recognizing and decoding words.
• Challenges with reading fluency and speed.
• Struggles in understanding what has been read.
These challenges often persist despite adequate instruction and opportunity to learn.
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𝗘𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
A thorough Psycho-Educational Assessment is the gold standard for identifying SLD in Reading. Our clinic can guide families through this process to ensure their child receives a comprehensive evaluation.
Early identification of SLD in Reading is crucial for several reasons:
• Tailored Interventions: The sooner challenges are recognized, the sooner evidence-based strategies can be implemented.
• Boosted Confidence: Children who receive support early are less likely to internalize struggles as personal failure.
• Long-Term Success: Early intervention helps prevent secondary issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, and academic disengagement.
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𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗗𝗼 𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁?
As a parent, your involvement plays a vital role in your child’s progress. Here are actionable steps you can take:
1. Seek Assessment: If you notice persistent struggles with reading, consult with a psychologist for a psycho-educational assessment.
2. Advocate for Support: Work with your child’s school to ensure they receive appropriate accommodations, such as extra time, audiobooks, or specialized instruction.
3. Create a Positive Environment: Celebrate your child’s efforts and achievements. Remind them that challenges in reading do not define their potential.
4. Utilize Resources: Explore community resources in Calgary, such as specialized tutoring centers or reading programs designed for children with learning differences.
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𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱
While a diagnosis of SLD in Reading can feel overwhelming, it’s also an opportunity to better understand your child’s unique learning profile. With the right support, they can thrive academically and personally.
For more information or to schedule an assessment, feel free to contact the clinic. Let’s take the first step in empowering your child today.
office@calgarypsychservices.com
