Homeschooling has emerged as a popular choice for many families. It may also be a popular option for children with dyslexia. Students who struggle with dyslexia require individual, systematic instruction in spelling and reading, and many traditional schools don’t always support this level of service.
As schools are increasingly required to adhere to various regulations, less resources may be devoted to individual student needs. For many parents and students, homeschooling can offer the individualized attention necessary and eliminate the need for extra tutoring.
If your child has dyslexia, you might be wondering what resources or strategies you can use to give them the best opportunities for success in a homeschool setting. Here is what you need to know about homeschooling children with dyslexia.
Benefits of Homeschooling Children With Dyslexia
Homeschooling gives families the resources and freedom to customize the learning environment and educational experience for their children. Some of the primary benefits of choosing homeschooling for a child with dyslexia include:
- Ability to customize your child’s learning materials to match their temperament and learning profile
- Ability to focus on content and related skills such as reading fluency, organization, or paragraph structure
- Ability to adapt the pace of learning to match the child’s skills
- Ability to access technology and resources as they are needed to help the student advance
6 Tips for Homeschooling Chidren With Dyslexia
If you decide to take on the responsibility for homeschooling a child with dyslexia, you’ll need a plan. Here are some tips to help make your and your child’s homeschooling experience a success.
1. Learn Different Teaching Strategies
Certain teaching approaches will be more effective than others with a dyslexic student. What works with one student may not work with another. Take the time to find the teaching strategy that is most effective for your child.
2. Seek Online and Local Support
If you suspect that your child has dyslexia, a helpful first step is to have them evaluated by a professional to identify their strengths and challenges. Once you have this information, you can get the additional support and guidance you need, both online and locally.
3. Organize Your Curriculum
When you organize your homeschool curriculum, make sure there is a mix of multisensory and fun educational materials to keep your child’s interest and facilitate learning. Some children will require cognitive educational materials.
4. Gather the Required Materials
Find trusted resources for your homeschooling materials. Of course, some of these you can create yourself. But, you may wish to have some assistance with lesson plans and having a go-to partner is helpful.
5. Create a Daily Routine
Plan and maintain a scheduled, consistent daily routine that helps you and your child achieve various academic goals. Again, a trusted homeschooling resource can help you assemble these lesson plans.
6. Remain Flexible
If something isn’t working for your student, don’t be afraid to switch gears and try another approach. There are many strategies for homeschooling, and you will find the one that works best if you remain flexible and committed.
Get Access to the Homeschooling Resources You Need
When it comes to homeschooling, your children’s individual needs come first. There are many benefits to using this types of schooling when you have a child with dyslexia, but your particular approach is essential.
The South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools (SCAIHS) has been serving homeschoolers in this state for over three decades. Apply to SCAIHS today to get the assistance and encouragement you need during your child’s homeschooling journey.