5 BEST Websites for Dyscalculia

Is your child or a particular student struggling with math on a daily basis? It is not unusual for children or students to be challenged with math homework once in awhile. However, if he experiences problems with numbers or has low math test scores yet does well in other subjects, he could have a math learning disability (LD) called dyscalculia.

This LD called dyscalculia is a brain-related condition that makes basic arithmetic and its concepts very hard to learn. The condition may be hereditary, but scientists have not yet discovered any genes specifically related to it.

Up to 7% of elementary school students have dyscalculia. Research suggests it's as common as dyslexia -- a reading disorder -- but not as well understood. In fact, kids and parents sometimes call it “math dyslexia,” but this can be confusing because dyscalculia is a completely different condition. Your school or doctor may call it a “mathematics learning disability” or a “math disorder.”

This math LD can sometimes be associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) -- up to 60% of people who have ADHD also have a learning disorder like dyscalculia.

Dyscalculia, sometimes called math dyslexia, covers a wide range of math difficulties. The symptoms can also change as your child gets older and is expected to think about math in new ways. Here are signs of the math struggles you might see at different ages.

From the following 2 lists, if you find that your child or student demonstrates more weaknesses than he does strengths, a math learning disability or dyscalculia may be the issue:

Strengths in Mathematics

-Correctly sequences numbers, equations and formulas
-Correctly performs mental math processes
-Accurately conducts math computations
-Completes work logically and with minimal errors
-Understands math concepts
-Appropriately uses both oral and written math terms
-Consistently and correctly remembers math facts

Weaknesses in Mathematics

-Rarely sequences numbers, equations and formulas correctly
-Unable to perform mental math processes
-Usually conducts math computations inaccurately
-Makes many careless errors, often choosing the wrong operation
-Has difficulty understanding math concepts
-Rarely uses math terms appropriately---both orally and in written work
-Unable to accurately recall math facts (though many children today are not committing math facts to memory.)
-Unable to do word problems

Once you have determined the strengths vs. weaknesses ratio as stated above, consider using one or more of the following top resources to help initiate progress for your child or student with dyscalculia or other related math issues. These links can provide a bridge while waiting to access professional evaluation, services and support for a math LD.

BEST 5 Dyscalculia Resources

1. Math Worksheets-from edhelper.com
This link provides FREE math printables that include daily math activities, math puzzles and much more.
https://www.edhelper.com/math_worksheets.htm

2. Dyscalculia Resource Treasure Collection from tesSpecialNeeds
This resource includes a set of activities, flash cards, strategies, revision aids and posters all developed to support pupils with dyscalculia. All resources have a clear layout and include visual support where necessary. Sassoon font is used throughout.
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/dyscalculia-resource-treasure-collection-6302884

3. Dyscalculia Worksheets & Other Resources from HelpingWithMath.com
Here is included a list of printable math resources that have people with Dyscalculia and/or Dyslexia in mind. This is a good resource for materials to help with learning math facts.
https://www.helpingwithmath.com/resources/wor-dyscalculia.htm

4. Dyscalculia Primer and Resource Guide by Dr. Anna J. Wilson
Dr. Wilson is an OECD Post-Doctoral Fellow at INSERM U562, Paris, conducting cognitive neuroscience research on the remediation of dyscalculia. The purpose of this primer is to explain the cognitive neuroscience approach to dyscalculia (including the state of research in this area), to answer frequently asked questions, and to point the reader towards further resources on the subject. Further references include some of the major scientific literature in the field, as well as reading suggestions for teachers and parents.
http://www.oecd.org/edu/ceri/dyscalculiaprimerandresourceguide.htm

5. 100 Best Resources for Kids Who Struggle With Math by Marianne Sunderland
This post includes 100+ resources are books, websites, games, apps, and curricula that teach math in a variety of multi-sensory ways that will provide effective tools for teaching math, especially when a child struggles with math facts and concepts.
https://homeschoolingwithdyslexia.com/100-best-resources-struggle-math/

BONUS Tip: For children or students with math and spatial challenges, consider using colored graph paper or Reading Focus Cards (low-tech and digital) to maintain placeholder columns. The following links can provide the needed supports for these materials.

Free Grid Paper Pages from Nyla's Crafty Teaching
FREE downloadable blackline grid templates that are drawn to scale both for inches and cm. Use them for placeholder support (i.e., column addition, long multiplication and division, etc.) creating symmetry worksheets, bar graphs, reflections (flips), translations (slides), rotations (turns), area and perimeter models and 100 charts. The exact sizes in this set are: .5cm x .5cm grids (for making hundreds charts & multiplication charts) 1cm x 1cm grids, 2cm x cm grids, and 1 in. x 1 in. grids.
https://mscraftynyla.blogspot.com/2014/09/free-grid-paper-pages.html

Reading Focus Cards (low-tech & digital tools)
Use the Reading Focus Cards for placeholder support with long addition, multiplication and division, as well as with algebraic equations and other math applications. Utilizing these physical and digital tools can help increase focus on the needed math operation and improve accuracy with problem solving.
http://www.focusandread.com/products

Sources

What Is Dyscalculia? What Should I Do if My Child Has It? from WebMD.com
https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/dyscalculia-facts#1

Dyscalculia: What You’re Seeing from Understood.org
https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/dyscalculia/dyscalculia-what-youre-seeing

Homeschooling With Dyslexia Blog by Marianne Sunderland
Marianne Sunderland is the creator of Homeschooling With Dyslexia, a site dedicated to educating and encouraging parents to successfully homeschool their children with dyslexia and related learning disabilities.
https://homeschoolingwithdyslexia.com/

For tools & resources to help improve reading & math skills, visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image sources:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com AND
Pixabay.com at https://pixabay.com

BEST Research-Based Interventions for Dyslexia, ADHD and Other LD

As educators and parents, it is prudent to consider research-based or evidence-based resources when assisting students in any way. This is even more critical when helping challenged readers and learners.

In this article, we wanted to provide the most up-to-date research-based resources to help the many adults who serve populations with dyslexia, ADHD and other LD. We have listed them here with direct links for your convenience. Please know that every child is unique, exhibiting individual behaviors and specific needs. Discovering the BEST resources, techniques and interventions for an individual child or student of any age may take time, patience and extended efforts in order to increase the possibility of good outcomes.

Special Note: It is suggested that teachers, tutors, programs, and schools provide specific, evidence-based techniques. We also recommend that these techniques be discussed at follow-up meetings after student evaluations and/or assessments. This does not mean or guarantee that these techniques will result in a positive outcome in all cases. There are too many variables involved to provide any kind of guarantee of success. We also do not receive any financial or other exchange benefit from making specific recommendations. We sincerely want to provide our professional opinion about what may be an effective intervention for your child. This is not a complete list. There are many other effective techniques which we are continually discovering.

BEST Research-Based Interventions for Dyslexia, ADHD and Other LD

Interventions for Challenged Readers

1. Orton-Gillingham Techniques for Dyslexia
Of all the reading programs specifically designed to help struggling readers by explicitly teaching the connections between letters and sounds, Orton–Gillingham was the first. Today—decades later—many reading programs include Orton–Gillingham ideas based on a multi-sensory approach to reading and learning.
https://www.orton-gillingham.com/

2. Tools for Unfocused, Overwhelmed and Other Readers w/ LD

a. Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759)
Low-tech tools for reading physical books, documents and other printed media
http://www.focusandread.com/products

b. Reading Focus Cards App (Patent 8,360,779)
Digital tool for Macs and Windows PCs that allows readers to more easily and more comfortably remain focused on digital media--both online and offline (for web pages, digital documents and more)
For Macs: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/read-and-focus/id920617853?mt=12
For Windows PCs: https://gumroad.com/l/ReadingFocusCards

Instruction Techniques for Dyscalculia (Math Learning Disabilities)

1. The University of Chicago School Mathematics Project
UCSMP has created a curriculum for students from pre-kindergarten all the way through 12th grade. UCSMP materials, including Everyday Mathematics for Grades preK-6 and seven UCSMP textbooks for use in Grades 6-12 mathematics (Pre-Transition Mathematics; Transition Mathematics; Algebra; Geometry; Advanced Algebra; Functions, Statistics, and Trigonometry; and Precalculus and Discrete Mathematics), are being used currently by an estimated 4.5 million students in elementary and secondary schools in every state and virtually every major urban area. (Usiskin) We find that these techniques are appropriate for children with strong visual memory, language, and fluid reasoning ability. They are not as effective with children who are concrete learners and who need foundational memorization of facts and consistent scope and sequence of skills.
http://ucsmp.uchicago.edu/about/overview/

2. Connected Mathematics
CMP is a problem-centered curriculum promoting an inquiry-based teaching-learning classroom environment. Mathematical ideas are identified and embedded in a sequenced set of tasks and explored in depth to allow students to develop rich mathematical understandings and meaningful skills.
https://connectedmath.msu.edu/

3. Saxon Math (for Elementary Students w/ Math LD)
Saxon takes an incremental approach to math, introducing a new skill or principle each day, then reviewing these concepts and skills day after day for weeks. This approach helps build students’ confidence in their ability to “do” math successfully. Students who have used this program receive consistently high scores on standardized math tests. We find this technique to be successful with concrete, sequential learners who need memorization, review, and scope and sequence learning.
http://www.hmhco.com/shop/education-curriculum/math/saxon-math

Computer-Assisted Instruction (CAI) (for Middle to Sec. Students w/ Math LD)

1. I Can Learn
A full-curriculum mathematics software solution that is a self-paced, mastery-based technology fully aligned to Common Core State Standards for math grades 5th through algebra and allows for effective differentiated instruction in a positive learning environment.
http://www.icanlearn.com/

2. Accelerated Math
Students must learn to think critically—like mathematicians—in order to master math. Accelerated Math keeps students working—and thinking—to solve a set of 6 problems before they see which ones they missed. The right amount of productive struggle helps students learn.
http://www.renaissance.com/products/practice/accelerated-math/

Assistive Materials for Dysgraphia

1. Stem sentences, essay templates and graphic organizers for dysgraphia
http://storey.weebly.com/graphic-organizers-and-writing-templates.html

2. They Say/I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing with Readings (Second Edition)
http://books.wwnorton.com/books/webad.aspx?id=4294986798

3. High School Essay Templates
http://writewellapp.com/high-school-essay-templates-and-formats

4. Elementary School – Sentence Generators
http://sentence.yourdictionary.com/

5. More Stem Sentences
https://www.pinterest.com/explore/sentence-stems/

6. Handwriting without Tears
http://www.hwtears.com/hwt

Sources

Evidenced-Based Intervention Techniques for Dyslexia, Learning Disorders, and ADHD-from Turning Point Assessments
https://iqtestingdenver.com/2017/05/31/evidenced-based-intervention-techniques-for-dyslexia-learning-disorders-and-adhd/

Orton–Gillingham: What You Need to Know-by Peggy Rosen and Understood.org
https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/partnering-with-childs-school/instructional-strategies/orton-gillingham-what-you-need-to-know

For more information about tools & resources to help improve reading fluency, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image sources:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com AND
Pixabay.com at https://pixabay.com

Tools and Strategies to Help Unfocused, Overwhelmed and Visually-Fatigued Readers

There is no doubt that in today's world, most of us are often unfocused, inattentive and overwhelmed as a result of the amount of reading required of us each day. There was a time (and not that very long ago!) that we were not faced with a hundred emails in our inbox, various "white" papers needing our attention and attached digital documents requiring review and signatures. Needless to say, that has all changed, AND these kinds of digital media vie daily for our attention in addition to the physical media demanding our readers' eyes. To say the least, we are fast becoming immersed in text 24/7. Is there any wonder that we feel overwhelmed by it all?

Then, for a moment, imagine a challenged reader who also struggles with ADHD, dyslexia or another reading issue, too. This individual is frequently overwhelmed and often unfocused even BEFORE attempting to read. What can the average amount of media currently presented daily cause for such a reader? The result is much more challenge and struggle than many of us can visualize.

There are ways to manage such focus and overwhelm issues with large (or small) amounts of reading or text. Sometimes the right tools can make all the difference for a number of readers. For others, it might be a particular tool, focusing strategy (or combination of tools and strategies), resulting in more attentive reading with better comprehension and retention.

We have gathered here a list of resources that include BOTH tools and strategies for such readers. In fact, most readers could benefit from knowing about these resources for those times when they are fatigued or just have too much reading to accomplish in a specific time period.

We hope these resources will help you or someone you know who struggles with focus and overwhelm when reading!

Other Resources to Help with Focus and Overwhelm

How to Stay Focused: Train Your Brain from Entrepreneur
Amid the noise, understanding your brain’s limitations and working around them can improve your focus and increase your productivity. This article will provide some tips for how to do that.
https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/225321

The RIGHT Strategies Get the Job Done for Challenged Readers w/ ADHD & Others
Refer to this set of specific strategies often, and then match the appropriate strategies to every reading situation in order to improve focusing and tracking skills as well as overall reading success.
http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2016/10/the-right-strategies-get-job-done-for.html

Distracted Reading in the Digital Age by Elizabeth Randolph and Vassar
This article describes how an English professor and a librarian help students focus and read with more success.
https://vq.vassar.edu/issues/2015/01/features/distracted-reading.html

Strategies and Accommodations for Challenged Readers
This web page provides a FREE downloadable list of strategies to help unfocused and overwhelmed, challenged readers of all ages.
http://www.focusandread.com/learning-strategies

Kindle & Reading Focus Cards Apps Work TOGETHER to Help ADHD & Dyslexic Readers Succeed!
The combination of these two desktop apps can work together to provide more FOCUS and less OVERWHELM than any other tech device for ADHD or dyslexia.
http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2016/09/the-kindle-and-reading-focus-cards-apps.html

10 Bible Verses For When You Feel Overwhelmed by Rachel Wojo
Sometimes, the best remedy for feeling overwhelmed is reading God’s Word. The article here may be a simple post, but it is a beeline of verses that might hit the heart of the matter and could be just what the doctor ordered.
http://rachelwojo.com/10-bible-verses-for-when-you-feel-overwhelmed/

18 Tips to Support Dyslexics & Other Challenged Readers
This article offers readers a list of 18 tips to help and support the challenged reader(s) in your family or in your classroom.
http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2017/02/18-tips-to-support-dyslexics-and-other.html

Feeling Overwhelmed is a Common Anxiety Symptom by CalmClinic
Feeling overwhelmed is perhaps the most common symptom of anxiety, and it can actually affect you on a very base level. This resource from CalmClinic will provide some ideas to help you manage the anxiety of being overwhelmed.
http://www.calmclinic.com/anxiety/symptoms/feeling-overwhelmed

Low-tech Reading Focus Cards - Customizable reading tools for physical books, documents & other applications (From $16.95)
http://www.focusandread.com/products

Reading Focus Cards App - Virtual index card-like reading tool to aid visual focus, tracking, fluency, comprehension & retention---infinitely customizable (Mac, PC-$5.99)
https://focusandread.com/reading-focus-cards-app/

OpenDyslexic - Font designed by Abbie Gonzalez to ease visual aspects of reading for dyslexia (FREE)
http://opendyslexic.org/

For more information about tools & resources for children & teens with ADHD, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image sources:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com AND
Pixabay.com at https://pixabay.com

The 6 Most Important Things About Dyslexia Teachers Need to Know

For many years, there is has been such controversy about dyslexia in the world of education. The reasons for this are varied, but the results of this controversy have been staggering and pervasive. For too long, there have been far too many students who cannot read. The nearly 1 in 5 students (17%) challenged with dyslexia continue to pay the price for this long-lasting controversy.

In this article we thought it would be helpful to all involved and invested in helping these students if we were to provide a short list of points for educators to keep in mind as the topic of dyslexia accommodations continues to be at the forefront of educational discussions across the country. In this way, perhaps teachers will be better able to begin addressing the pressing needs of their students with dyslexia in ways that will indeed make a difference in their academic and life experiences.

The 6 Most Important Things about Dyslexia Teachers Need to Know

1. Dyslexia is NOT a myth or imaginative condition. It is a language-based learning disability. Dyslexia is not a vision problem. It is not about intelligence. It certainly is not about laziness. Dyslexia affects the way the brain processes written and spoken language. Individuals with dyslexia have trouble mapping letters onto sounds and vice versa. Students with dyslexia usually have a hard time reading, but they can also struggle with spelling, writing and even pronouncing words.

2. Dyslexia is inherited and lifelong. It is not something a student will outgrow. At the same time, dyslexia and its symptoms may appear or be experienced differently at different times throughout development. Very often, a child’s diagnosis will result in a parent realizing for the first time that he or she also has dyslexia.

3. Dyslexia is more common than many believe. The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) estimates that as many as 15 to 20 percent of people have some symptoms of dyslexia. These individuals have trouble with reading, spelling and writing, or mixing up similar words. Dyslexia affects people from all types of backgrounds, too. Of the 13 or 14 percent of school-age children who have a condition that qualifies them for special education services, 7 percent are diagnosed with a learning disability. Furthermore, 85 percent of those children have a primary learning disability in reading and language processing.

4. Prior to Kindergarten (and even as late as third grade), dyslexia may not be obvious or suspected. Children are generally diagnosed with dyslexia when they learn to read or begin reading in order to learn. That may be in kindergarten, first grade or even later at the primary level. However, as dyslexia is often suspected or discovered in older students, it is still a good idea to request assessment since the condition sometimes isn’t identified until much later. Early identification and treatment can make a very significant difference in the long-term quality of life for students. Teachers have a very important role in all of this because they are on the front lines when it comes to identifying dyslexia.

5. There is no one solution for all with dyslexia. Not all children with reading, decoding and spelling problems consistent with dyslexia actually have dyslexia. Other language problems that cause reading challenges also need attention. Educators can use tools like the Test of Integrated Language and Literacy Skills (TILLS) to help determine what individual students with language or literacy problems need to succeed in the classroom. It is important to note that in the case of dyslexia, a combination of the right tools, strategies and other supports may be required for reading success. A unique combination of these may very well be needed for each individual students affected with dyslexia.

6. Current and pending dyslexia legislation in many states will very soon affect teaching and learning methods, strategies, accommodations and more in many U.S. classrooms and at all grade levels (K-12). It is most important that educators begin to build their own "dyslexia toolbox" so that a portfolio of resources will be ever at-the-ready for dyslexic students (and others who struggle with reading) at every grade level. To learn more about the current and pending dyslexia legislation in your state, visit Dyslegia: A Legislative Information Site.

Sources

10 Things About Dyslexia Every Teacher Needs to Know-by Nickola Wolf Nelson, Ph.D.
https://www.weareteachers.com/things-about-dyslexia-every-teacher-needs/?utm_source=WeAreTeachers_Pinterest&utm_campaign=BrookesP_5212&utm_medium=Article_04

8 Things Every Teacher Should Know About Dyslexia-from We Are Teachers
https://www.weareteachers.com/8-things-every-teacher-should-know-about-dyslexia/

Dyslexia in the Classroom: What Every Teacher Needs to Know-from the International Dyslexia Association (IDA)
https://dyslexiaida.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/DITC-Handbook.pdf

For more information about tools, strategies & support for challenged readers with dyslexia, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image sources:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

18 Tips to Support Dyslexics & Other Challenged Readers

Reading and learning do not come easily for every student. Parents and teachers often look for specific strategies and resources to assist struggling readers and learners, especially for the many with dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and/or other issues that can impact reading success.

Making using of such strategies or accommodations allows for more fairness in the classroom where other, more typical readers and learners at the same grade level may be present. These are supports that can actually help "level the playing field" for many children, teens and adults who would not otherwise receive the support needed to be successful readers and learners.

In addition, such supportive accommodations should be implemented for as long as they are needed by the individuals. Here is a printable list that you might consider to help and support the challenged reader(s) or learner(s) in your family or in your classroom:

1. Request or allow course and book content to be available via audiotape, CD, or DVD.

2. Use a portable, hand-held spell checker (such as the Franklin Spelling Ace) for unknown words.

3. Use graph paper or the Reading Focus Cards for math to promote accurate placeholder work.

4. Use interactive computer reading programs that require only a limited number of tasks at a time.

5. Underline or highlight important key words in a set of directions BEFORE beginning an assignment.

6. Fold a worksheet so that only a small amount of text, information, or problems is visible at one time. Using individualized tools can help with this as well.

7. Allow for standing at a desk/table or moving to optional work areas with less distraction.

8. Allow for the experience of a variety of sensory learning techniques such as those from the use of a computer, e-tablet, mp3 player, tape recorder, projector, and/or manipulatives. The more senses you appeal to and employ in the learning process, the more success the student will experience.

9. Use word processors or computers to complete written work, especially when writing is a struggle.

10. Allow for kneeling or standing at a desk (if needed), as long as it does not cause problems or distractions for others.

11. Allow for access to a copy of prepared notes, especially after a teaching session or discussion.

12. Arrange for a second set of textbooks at home so that materials are always at hand when needed.

13. Use very low-volume music (instrumental) or environmental sounds (seashore or other nature sounds) while doing independent work.

14. Allow for student to work cooperatively at times with others as part of a "buddy" system of support.

15. Use colored paper for all printed materials including worksheets, outlines, notes, etc. Experiment with pastels as well as bright shades. One particular color may produce the best results for an individual.

16. Use colored overlays or the low-tech Reading Focus Cards for focus and reading challenges with physical book pages, worksheets and other documents. These inexpensive reading aids can diminish or eliminate the visual “stress” or discomfort some readers/learners experience with the white backgrounds of most text pages. These same tools can also be used with Kindles, Nooks, and other e-readers (Model #001-Shorter) as well as iPads and other e-tablets (Model #002-Longer), too.

17. Make use of websites such as www.math.com, www.khanacademy.org, www.mobymax.com or other free sites for help with specific math, science or other content challenges.

18. For reading online or offline digital media, use the Reading Focus Cards desktop app with Macs and Windows PCs to provide more focus and fluency, better tracking, increased comprehension and improved retention for unfocused or overwhelmed readers.

For more information about assistive technologies for challenged readers, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image source: Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

BEST Websites for Assistive Tech: Audiobook Resources

Part 1 in a series of articles about Assistive Technologies for Challenged Readers

If you know or help a challenged reader, you also know that the RIGHT technologies can make ALL the difference in the world for an individual's level of reading success. Being aware of the BEST technology available for a specific reading issue will increase the possibility of that same individual experiencing even MORE reading success.

When printed media presents problems for some readers, there are helpful tech options available to allow such individuals to read with more comfort, focus, comprehension and retention, improving the over-all reading experience. In this article, we present text-to-speech as just one type of technology that can significantly help and support all types of struggling readers.

Text-to-speech technologies convert printed text into spoken words using synthesized voices. This type of technology is built into most computer operating systems, mobile devices, and e-book readers. In addition, there is a range of software, apps and extensions that also provide this support. This text-to-speech technology provides much support for the many readers who need it in the form of audiobooks, recordings of human narrators reading aloud.

Resources for Audiobooks---When LISTENING Is a Better Option

Kindle Fire and Immersion Reading
Kindle Fire's VoiceView features IVONA's natural language text-to-speech voice.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TSUGXKE/ref=sv_devicesubnav_1#tech
Immersion Reading (Video)
See the e-text highlighted while listening to narrated audiobook.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccwBwnhD9SE

Audible app (for Mac, PC, iOS, Android, Windows Phone)
https://www.audible.com/sw

All You Can Books
http://www.allyoucanbooks.com/

Overdrive Media Console
Borrow digital audiobooks and e-books from local libraries.
https://app.overdrive.com/

Learning Ally Link (for Mac, PC, iOS)
https://www.learningally.org/link

Learning Ally Audio
iOS app for Learning Ally audiobooks.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/learning-ally-audio/id418888450?mt=8

Learning Ally Audio
Android app for Learning Ally audiobooks.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.learningally.learningallyaudioandroid&hl=en

Sources:

Assistive Technology Tools for Learning Differences, ADHD, and Executive Function Challenges
by Shelley Haven ATP, RET
http://techpotential.net/attoolbox

AT Toolbox-Assistive Technology Tools for Education---Text To Speech
http://www.attoolbox.com/text-to-speech/

For more information about assistive technologies for challenged readers, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

Dyslexia's Challenges Often Translate into STEM Strengths

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of once again returning to the gifted classroom. This is an annual experience for me in a program called College for Kids where classes for gifted students are conducted on the campus of our local community college, St. Louis Community College-Meramec Campus. For eleven years now, I have prepared for and instructed children (K-8) in foreign language classes as well as in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) or maker-space classes. Each year, it is always an intense 5 days for all where kids are challenged to be particularly creative and to summon their abilities to problem solve and think in critical and innovative ways as they learn new and stimulating content in a college setting.

For me, the week experienced with these unique learners involved the teaching of 2 Exploratory Spanish classes and 2 STEM classes where the students built mechanical robotic arms. As you may already know, STEM classes such as the latter mentioned here are currently in great demand by parents and students alike, and as a result, both of these classes were filled to capacity within a short time after registration opened.

These STEM or Mechanical Robotic Arm Build classes were particularly interesting, as they required each individual student to build such an arm from regular household materials provided to them (card board, paper clips, tape, binder clips, twine, fishing line and other common items.) To add to the challenge and problem-solving skills promoted by the project, only a limited set or predetermined number of each item was provided to each student builder (that could not be exceeded).

The student-created products from these two classes were most interesting. Some of the designs created could even be described as elegant. One student devised a way to connect wooden craft sticks with robber bands in such a way as to allow them to flex, successfully picking up a Styrofoam cup. Another young 7th grader was able to manipulate the five, agile fingers of his mechanical arm with craft sticks and fishing line, enabling it to also achieve the same goal. The projects were indeed exercises in creativity, out-of-the-box thinking, patience, fortitude, determination and more. The students actually learned life lessons in these classes, not just the how of building a mechanical robotic arm with a specific set of items.

What was even more interesting was the fact that when I mentioned my work outside the classroom involves serving students with dyslexia, both of the student designers above mentioned to me that they were challenged with this same learning disability, with one student adding that he also had ADHD. In fact, the number of gifted students with dyslexia in both STEM classes exceeded the current statistics for dyslexia with more than 1 in 5 of all students stating that they struggled with the symptoms of dyslexia.

So, why am I relating all of this to our blog readers this week? Well, it is becoming more and more apparent to educators and others that children and adults with dyslexia think differently from those not challenged with the language-based learning disability. Dyslexic individuals are often highly-creative thinkers, global learners and persons who think outside-the-box. Because of these assets, they are very frequently sought after as innovative problem-solvers and troubleshooters for challenges that leave the rest of us "in the dust" so to speak. Our world needs these unique individuals and their gifts---desperately.

If you are the parent or teacher of a child or teen with dyslexia, or you suspect as much, consider presenting new information or content with hands-on activities that promote creative thinking and innovative troubleshooting or problem-solving skills. Seek out STEM or STEAM (that is, with an added Art component) activities and resources that will bring out the BEST in the skills set of your dyslexic readers and learners. Then allow these children to excel at what they do best---solve problems and accomplish the learning goals you have set for them in innovative and unique ways. You'll be very glad you did.

STEM Resources for Dyslexic Readers & Learners

200+ STEM Links & Resources---ALL in 1 Place!
A Pinterest board with a HUGE collection of STEM and STEAM resources, many of which are FREE!
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/stem-links-resources/?etslf=4387&eq=STEM

STEM Resource Finder
This STEM Resource Finder from The Concord Consortium features some of the best FREE, open-source educational activities, models and software tools available. You can search by keyword or filter by subject, grade level and type to find the right resources for your learning goals.
https://concord.org/stem-resources

Project Lesson Plan: Build Your Own Robot Arm
This is the lesson plan described and utilized in the above article that helped students develop a robot arm using common materials. Students will explore design, construction, teamwork, and materials selection and use.
http://tryengineering.org/lesson-plans/build-your-own-robot-arm

For information on customizable reading tools for dyslexia, ADHD and other challenges, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

BEST Dyslexia Resources (ALL in 1 Place!)

Last week, some ground-breaking legislation was signed by Governor Jay Nixon to significantly help improve the lives of students with dyslexia in the State of Missouri. On Wednesday, June 22, Governor Nixon put his signature to Senate Bill 638 and turned it into law at an Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC) Head Start Center in Springfield, MO.

By late next year, the new law will begin to benefit an estimated 1 in 5 Missouri school-aged children. The following is a listing of the important benefits of this new legislation:

1. By December 31, 2017, this act requires the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to develop guidelines for the appropriate screening of students for dyslexia and related disorders and to develop the necessary classroom support for such students.

2. Beginning in the 2018-19 school year, each public school, including charter schools, shall conduct dyslexia screenings and provide reasonable classroom support consistent with the guidelines developed by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

3. Additionally, practicing-teacher assistance programs shall include two hours of in-service training regarding dyslexia and related disorders provided by each school district for all practicing teachers. Such training shall count as two contact hours of professional development. (Section 167.950)

4. This act also creates the Legislative Task Force on Dyslexia. The Task Force will advise and make recommendations to the Governor, Joint Committee on Education, and relevant state agencies. The Task Force will consist of twenty members, as described in the act. Except for four legislative members and the Commissioner of Education, the members will be appointed by the President Pro Tempore of the Missouri Senate and the Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives. This task force will make the recommendations for a statewide system for identification, intervention, and delivery of supports for students with dyslexia, as described in the act.

This is a tremendous step forward for public school students in Missouri, and we certainly look forward to the enactment of this legislation!

While we await the implementation of this all-important law for students of Missouri, we wanted to join the momentum here and provide our readers with some of the BEST resources to help students with dyslexia RIGHT NOW! Please find to follow here some of the most helpful websites, tools and other resources we know that can make a significant difference in the lives of students as well as adults with dyslexia---whether you are a Missouri citizen or not. To make the access to these resources more convenient for you, we have collected them into Pinterest boards. That way, you will have them at your fingertips whenever the need arises.

Happy Reading---EVERYONE!

BEST Websites and Resources for Dyslexia

700+ Dyslexia Resources & Support
A very large collection of websites, links and other resources to help the 1 in 5 individuals estimated to be challenged with dyslexia. Many resources in the list are FREE or low cost.
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/dyslexia-resources-support/

Dyslexia Tools
A collection of tools, fonts and other products to help students of all ages with dyslexia to enjoy more reading success.
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/dyslexia-tools/?etslf=9319&eq=Dyslexia

Reading Focus Cards desktop app (for Macs & Windows PCs---Price: $5.99)
From Brennan Innovators, LLC
This app is the digital version of the physical Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759) for struggling readers. This app for Windows PCs and Macs provides practical READING SUPPORT for children and adults with ADHD, dyslexia, autism and other conditions that can affect reading success. It promotes more FOCUS when reading digital media whether online or offline (webpages, PDF files, Word docs, Excel spreadsheets & more.) The application FLOATS on top AND STAYS on top of underlying applications when moved on the screen over text by the fingers, mouse or arrow keys as needed. In addition, the Reading Focus Cards app (Patent 8,360,779) is compatible with and supports touch-screen technology where applicable.
1. Macs (desktops & notebooks): https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/read-and-focus/id920617853?mt=12
2. Windows PCs (desktops & laptops): https://gumroad.com/l/ReadingFocusCards

Dyslexia Resources from UM DyslexiaHelp (University of Michigan)
The link, DyslexiaHelp.umich.edu, is a free website and curriculum about all things dyslexia -- straight from the leaders and best.
https://www.pinterest.com/umdyslexiahelp/?etslf=20429&eq=dyslexia

Dyslexia Apps
A grouping of apps for desktops, iPhones, Androids and other devices to help persons of all ages with dyslexia.
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/dyslexia-apps/?etslf=13595&eq=dyslexia

Homeschooling - Dyslexia by Marianne Sunderland, Homeschooling With Dyslexia
350+ excellent tips and resources for homeschoolers with dyslexic learners.
https://www.pinterest.com/godismystrength/?etslf=6485&eq=marianne

70+ Dyslexia Resources by Monica, Discover Their Gifts
A collection of tips & resources for parents & families of children w/ dyslexia.
https://www.pinterest.com/monicawharton/dyslexia-resources/?etslf=10338&eq=dyslexia%20resources

Source:

Decoding Dyslexia MO
Announcement of the content of HB 638 and the important benefits of the new dyslexia legislation in the State of Missouri.
http://us7.campaign-archive2.com/?u=1921c9b59db5c29489c64f5cb&id=b0e616a7bf&e=0323f79beb

For information on customizable reading tools for dyslexia, ADHD and other challenges, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

Raising Awareness & Providing Supportive Resources for Dyslexia

Many of our loyal readers already know that we often present information in this blog on the topic of dyslexia and other reading challenges. As we conclude Dyslexia Awareness Month here in the U.S. and begin Dyslexia Awareness Week 2014 (November 3-9) in the U.K., we thought it timely to present an article here about what dyslexia actually is and some helpful resources to support families challenged with it.

First of all, what IS dyslexia? The International Dyslexia Association provides the following definition:

Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. Dyslexia refers to a cluster of symptoms, which result in people having difficulties with specific language skills, particularly reading. Students with dyslexia usually experience difficulties with other language skills such as spelling, writing, and pronouncing words. Dyslexia affects individuals throughout their lives; however, its impact can change at different stages in a person’s life. It is referred to as a learning disability because dyslexia can make it very difficult for a student to succeed academically in the typical instructional environment, and in its more severe forms, will qualify a student for special education, special accommodations or extra support services.
(Source: International Dyslexia Association---Please see links to follow.)

Dyslexia affects approximately 20% of the population in the U.S. (1 in 5 individuals). For some individuals who have never been diagnosed, dyslexia is a hidden disability which may result in underemployment, difficulty navigating academic environments, difficulty on the job and decreased self-esteem or confidence. Even those who have been diagnosed are likely to struggle with reading or writing in some aspects of their lives. Dyslexia is a specific reading difference and does not reflect low intelligence. In fact, there are many bright and creative individuals with dyslexia who are challenged throughout life with reading, writing and/or spelling. Often, however, with appropriate teaching methods, dyslexics can learn successfully.

This week, we have a large basket of resources to help. In our list, you'll discover some of the best tools, books and support organizations to provide the help needed for individuals of ANY age struggling with dyslexia. We hope you will take advantage of at least a few of these resources. Someone's future could depend on it!

Helpful Dyslexia Tools & Apps

OpenDyslexic Font (FREE)
Created by Abelardo Gonzalez
OpenDyslexic is a new, open-sourced font created to increase readability for readers with dyslexia. The typeface includes regular, bold, italic, and bold-italic styles. It is being updated continually and improved based on input from dyslexic users. There are no restrictions on using OpenDyslexic outside of attribution. FREE download via this link.
http://opendyslexic.org/

The Reading Focus Cards
(Patent 7,565,759)
From Brennan Innovators, LLC
Sensory-appealing and customizable reading tools and solutions for challenged readers of all ages. Made in the U.S.A.
www.FocusandRead.com/products

APP---Overlays! (for OS X 10.8 or later---Price: $6.99)
Created by Abbie Gonzalez
Use to help with reading or sometimes to help following large tables and lists of data. Battle the wall of text, eyestrain and distractions with this on screen overlay to help you keep your place!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/overlays!/id868499627?mt=12

APP---Reading Focus Cards (for Macs & Windows PCs---Price: $5.99)
(Patent 8,360,779)
From Brennan Innovators, LLC
This DESKTOP app is the digital version of the physical Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759), solutions for struggling readers. This app for Windows PCs and Macs provides practical READING SUPPORT for children and adults with ADHD, dyslexia, autism and other conditions that can affect reading success. It promotes more FOCUSED online reading of almost ALL digital media (webpages, PDF files, Word docs, Excel spreadsheets & more.) In addition, the Reading Focus Card app is compatible with and supports touch-screen technology. The application can be moved on the screen over text by the fingers, mouse or arrow keys as needed.

1. For Macs (desktops & notebooks):
Visit the Mac App Store and search for Reading Focus Cards or go directly to
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/read-and-focus/id920617853?mt=12

2. For Windows PCs (desktops & laptops):
Visit Gumroad at https://gumroad.com/l/ReadingFocusCards OR visit the Microsoft Windows Store and search for the app called Reading Focus Cards.(No URLs are ever provided for apps in the Windows Store.)

Best Books for Dyslexia

Overcoming Dyslexia: A New and Complete Science-Based Program for Reading Problems at Any Level
by Sally Shaywitz, M.D.; Vintage (2005)

Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide
by Pam Wright and Pete Wright; Harbor House Law Press (2006)

The Gift of Dyslexia
by Ronald D. Davis, Eldon M. Braun; Penguin Group-USA (1997)
(first published May 1, 1993)

The Dyslexic Advantage: Unlocking the Hidden Potential of the Dyslexic Brain
by Brock and Fernette Eide M.D.; Plume (2012)

Dyslexia Support Organizations

The Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity
The Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity serves as a nexus for research on dyslexia, and is as well a leading source of advocacy and information to better the lives of people with dyslexia.
http://dyslexia.yale.edu/

The International Dyslexia Association
This well-known organization provides general information and support for persons with dyslexia. The following link presents an online Dyslexia Self-Assessment for Adults
http://www.interdys.org/AreYouDyslexic_AdultTest.htm
FAQ page: http://www.interdys.org/FAQ.htm

Decoding Dyslexia
Decoding Dyslexia is a network of parent-led grassroots movements across the country concerned with the limited access to educational interventions for dyslexia within the public education system. We aim to raise dyslexia awareness, empower families to support their children and inform policy-makers on best practices to identify, remediate and support students with dyslexia.
For more information and to learn if your state has an affiliate branch of this organization (currently 47 states do), please visit the link provided here.
http://www.decodingdyslexia.net/

National Center for Learning Disabilities (Section on Dyslexia)
The National Center for Learning Disabilities improves the lives of all people with learning difficulties and disabilities by empowering parents, enabling young adults, transforming schools, and creating policy and advocacy impact. The link to follow here provides general information, dyslexia symptoms/warning signs categorized by grade level and resources to help parents and teachers.
http://ncld.org/types-learning-disabilities/dyslexia

Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy
Parents, educators, advocates, and attorneys come to Wrightslaw for accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities. - See more at: http://wrightslaw.com/#sthash.ajmQK87L.dpuf
http://wrightslaw.com/

Dyslegia: A Legislative Information Site
This website is maintained by Davis Dyslexia Association International to report and track pending legislation in the United States. This blog-based web site is a resource for sharing information about legislative initiatives, as a forum for discussion and exploration of policy issues, and as a communications tool to encourage citizen participation and involvement with their representatives in government.
http://www.dyslegia.com/

For more information on customizable reading tools for all kinds of challenged readers, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

FREE Literacy Apps for ALL Kinds of Struggling Readers

The month of October is always an "active" month for us, and this October 2014 definitely did not disappoint! It has been a very busy week here at Brennan Innovators with quite a number of parent phone consultations, the continuous packing and shipping of Reading Focus Card orders and the finalizing of preparations for a new product launch! Yes, a new product (unlike anything we've offered previously)! Next week in our blog article, we'll be telling you all about it, too. (Patience, patience, please!)

Traditionally at this part of October, parents and teachers are also meeting for the first conferences of the school year to discuss student progress. Also by this time in the semester, it can be fairly apparent to an educator if a student is experiencing issues with one or more reading skills. There might be a problem with focus and attention or fluency. Comprehension or retention of what is read could be issues. Parents may notice that it takes "forever" for their child to complete reading or written assignments at home. Other red flags might be raised, and solutions are urgently sought to help the challenged reader improve the deficient reading skills.

This week, we wanted to respond to a large number of email and phone requests as well as the many recent searches on our blog for "struggling reader apps." We thought we'd even take it a little further and offer a list of FREE apps in this often-requested category. In addition, we wanted to provide these apps for ALL kinds of challenged readers---for young, new readers, adolescents, middle-school readers, low-vision readers and even an application for teachers of struggling readers.

So, we hope that you will take a minute or two to survey the list of FREE iPad and Android apps we have created here for struggling readers in your life. We also hope you will discover at least one of them that will offer your child or students the help needed to read with much more success Oh, yes, and don't forget to check back here next week for that new product announcement! We think you'll be glad you did!

FREE Literacy Apps for Struggling Readers

8 Apps For Struggling Adolescent Readers (for Android & iPad)
by Hope Mulholland, Te@chThought
FREE apps that provide e-books, audiobooks and more for challenged teen readers can be found here.
http://www.teachthought.com/apps-2/8-apps-for-struggling-adolescent-readers/

Free App: One Minute Reader (Android & iPad)
If you have a child struggling with reading, download the free One Minute Reader app for iPad on iTunes. This app from the respected Minnesota-based company, Reading Naturally, contains a placement process to decide what reading level is right for your child and includes one FREE story from each level.
For Android: http://filedir.com/android/books-reference/one-minute-reader-3899592.html)
For iPad: http://oneminutereader.com/

Hooked on Phonics Learn to Read (Compatible with iPhone, iPad, & iPod touch-Optimized for iPhone 5)
by Hooked on Phonics
This FREE app is based on the award-winning Hooked on Phonics Learn to Read system. Millions of kids have learned to read using Hooked on Phonics. Now, we are proud to introduce our exciting new digital reading program!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/hooked-on-phonics-helping/id588868907?mt=8

Phonics Genius (Compatible with iPhone, iPad, & iPod touch)
by Innovative Mobile Apps
Over 6,000 words grouped by phonics sounds! This FREE app is an excellent resource for teaching phonemic awareness!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/phonics-genius/id461659980?mt=8

iCam Magnifier (Compatible with iPhone, iPad, & iPod touch-Optimized for iPhone 5)
FREE low vision app from Clarix (iCam is a low vision magnifier and reader for your iPhone or iPad. It features 5 high-contrast false color modes, as well as black and white, and color. If you struggle with reading, iCam can help magnify printed text. With an optional light, use it in dim lit rooms, restaurants, home, etc. It can be used to read menus, receipts, pill bottles & more.)
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/icam-magnifier/id628567362?ls=1&mt=8

Fluency Tutor™ for Google (Android)
by TextHelp, Ltd.
Fluency Tutor™ for Google is a FREE, easy-to-use reading and assessment tool that helps busy teachers support struggling readers.
Great for time-stretched teachers, Fluency Tutor™ for Google lets students practice reading aloud at their own pace.
Make reading aloud more fun and satisfying for even your most reluctant students. It’s also great for early readers and individuals learning English as a second language. (Student app is used in conjunction with the Teacher app.)
Teacher App: https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/fluency-tutor-for-google/ejajakfhhhhkifioabcekjjlhpoiijfa (available from the Chrome Web Store)
Student App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.texthelp.fluencytutorstudent (available from Google Play)

For more information on customizable reading tools for all kinds of challenged readers, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

Reading Problems? Teacher Consultation Can Help Your Child!

You've done all you can to prepare your child for this new school year. Clothes for school have been carefully selected and purchased. The right school supplies have been bought and properly tucked away in your child's backpack. All the appropriate forms have been completed with care and returned to school. Is there anything else that you should consider as this new school year is getting underway?

These first weeks of school will be very important for your child's overall academic success. Teachers have been preparing for many weeks, even months, to create the best classroom with the most positive learning environment for your child and his classmates. You can support your child's teacher in her efforts by committing to communicate effectively with her from the very beginning of the year.

First of all, we are certainly not advocating that you become what is known as a helicopter parent, hovering over your child and over-communicating with his teacher. However, you can do much to establish a positive parent-teacher relationship by using the teacher's or school's preferred method of communication and providing important input about your child from the start.

Even though your child's school records should contain a complete history of his academic progress in the school, there may be important input you can provide to assist both the teacher AND your child for the rest of the year. If your son has a new diagnosis of a reading issue, vision problem, behavior challenge, learning difference or disability, mentioning this now to the teacher will be most helpful. This information can positively affect seating, learning style support and other important aspects of your child's learning experience. If you have found specific reading, learning or study strategies at home to be more beneficial to your child, share these with the teacher---respectfully and without a demanding tone or attitude. By doing this, you will be communicating to the teacher that you are a supportive assistant, a partner in her efforts to educate your child. This can be significant in helping to establish a very positive parent-teacher relationship that will only further benefit your child's academic progress.

The very same is true for educators. Consider sending parents a gentle invitation to inform you of any new diagnoses of a reading problem, a learning challenge or recent behavior changes. Many times, parents are reluctant to discuss such topics unless requested to do so, especially at the beginning of a new school term. Though it is early, if you have already discovered specific learning or study strategies in the classroom to be more beneficial to a particular student, please share these strategies with the parents---respectfully and with a tone suggesting you want to help rather than dictate. In doing so, you will be communicating to parents that you are a supportive assistant, a partner in their efforts to help and educate their child. This mutual effort and respectful attitude will definitely go a long way in helping establish a positive parent-teacher relationship further benefiting your child's academic progress.

This week, we have collected quite a few resources to help both parents AND teachers experience more positive outcomes when communicating with one another---especially from the very beginning of a new school year. So, please take a look at the tips, strategies and downloadable resources we have gathered to help you open the way to a great dialog with your child's teacher or your students' parents. As we all know, these positive outcomes will affect your children and students in a very good way---all year long and beyond!

Parents' Resources to Help You Talk More Effectively with the Teacher

Parenting Children with Dyslexia: Support the Teacher's Goals
by Abigail Marshall & Netplaces.com
Helpful advice for parents is offered here in how to effectively and respectfully talk to your child's teacher about his/her reading challenges.
http://www.netplaces.com/parenting-kids-with-dyslexia/working-with-your-childs-teacher/support-the-teachers-goals.htm

How to Help: Talk with Teachers to Resolve Problems -- Helping Your Child With Homework
from the US Department of Education
Homework problems often can be avoided when families and caregivers value, monitor and guide their children's work on assignments. Sometimes, however, helping in these ways is not enough. If you have problems, here are some suggestions for how to deal with them.
http://www2.ed.gov/parents/academic/help/homework/part8.html

Talk with Your Child's Teacher
by Colorín Colorado
There are many reasons parents may be reluctant to talk to teachers. The questions and answers included here, however, can help you get the most out of talking to your child's teacher or with other school staff members. This is also an excellent resource for parents of ELL or ELS students.
http://www.colorincolorado.org/families/school/whynottalk/

What Parents Need to Know About Dyslexia (Reading Disability)
by Sheryl M. Handler, M.D.
Many parents become concerned when they notice that their child is struggling to remember letters, words, or how to read and spell. Parents often experience additional frustration because schools may not identify the problem early or provide extra help to improve it. This article is designed to provide a general understanding of reading disability, the terminology, basic strategies, resources and support to help parents of children with dyslexia.
http://www.aapos.org/resources/learning_disabilities_/

Working with Teachers and Schools -- Helping Your Child Succeed in School
from the US Department of Education
Many teachers say that they don't often receive information from parents about problems at home. Many parents say that they don't know what the school expects from their children—-or from them. Sharing information is essential and both teachers and parents are responsible for making it happen. The questions and answers here can help you to get the most out of talking to your child's teacher or with other school staff members.
http://www2.ed.gov/parents/academic/help/succeed/part8.html

Teachers' Resources to Help You Talk More Effectively with Parents

Planning for Parent Conferences
from Scholastic Books
Helpful resources are provided here for teachers, including sample forms, tips on creating a warm atmosphere, how to communicate tactfully and more.
http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/article/planning-parent-conferences

Parent-Teacher Conference Resources
Make your next parent-teacher conference a success with these planning suggestions, preparation advice, and conference forms. Use the great tips presented here for building positive relationships with parents to increase their involvement and improve communication.
https://www.teachervision.com/teacher-parent-conferences/resource/3713.html

Other Helpful Resources for Parents & Teachers

FREE Teacher Consultation about Reading Challenges
A FREE 15-minute phone conference with a certified K-12 educator is available from Brennan Innovators. Tips, strategies and tools can be recommended specifically to help your child, a student or you with reading issues. Just follow this link to access the correct phone number for the free conference:
http://www.focusandread.com/

The International Dyslexia Association (IDA)
This global organization offers many resources to parents, teachers and other adults on the tipic of dyslexia. It also has branches in cities across the U.S. Contact your local branch of the IDA through this link.
http://www.interdys.org

Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners
Orton and Gillingham were pioneering psychologists who first diagnosed, studied and developed treatment for dyslexia in the early 20th century. Orton-Gillingham refers to a particular approach to teaching children with dyslexia and reading difficulties related to decoding.
http://www.ortonacademy.org/

ISER
The best referrals come from those you know best. Your child's school should have a learning specialist, reading specialist or special education teacher who may have a list of tutors or programs to recommend for extra assistance for a learning challenge. Other parents whose children have struggled in reading are also an excellent source of first-hand referrals. For an article on how to choose a special-needs learning specialist.
http://www.iser.com/learning-specialist.html

For more information on customizable reading tools for various reading problems, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

Let's Deal with Distractions---ADHD Strategies for Home & School

It's almost time to turn another calendar page. August is nearly here, and with it will come the annual back-to-school specials, no-sales-tax holidays, last-minute family vacations and other events that sadly signal the end of summer. Are you ready for all of this activity?

More importantly, is your child ready to think about the coming school year---are YOU? If your daughter loves reading and learning, you and she are probably looking forward to the first week of school. If your son very much enjoys science and math, the thought of school is most likely a pleasant and exciting one for him. However, if your child or teen is a reluctant reader or learner, the school year and its academic expectations may not be on his list of favorite things. Add to that the challenges of ADHD, and you may have a student who definitely does not like the idea of returning to school for the new term.

What's a parent to do, especially when ADHD or other issues will need to be addressed? Well, we are all about preparation---good preparation. While others may be still seeking more fun in the sun or picnics in the park, you and your child can be prepping for a great school year.

What will you need to help your child with ADHD be well-prepared for this school year? Providing you with some excellent focusing tips for ADHD would certainly be a great place to start. That's why we have created the following list of tips to help your child focus, get"in gear," as well as be ready to read and study. We hope you will find at least 1 or 2 tips here that are new and motivating for your child.

Focusing Tips for Children with ADHD

ADHD Strategies for Home

1. With your child, create a color-coded system to help organize his papers. For example, all science papers might be placed in a green folder and all reading papers put in a purple one.

2. Label files and folders using general subject headings. By using "Science" instead of "Chemistry," your child can get more than a year of use from one filing system.

3. Encourage your child to write the date at the top of each assignment to promote much easier, chronological organization at test time.

4. With your child, create checklists to ensure that assignments are always completed on time. When each project is finished, just cross it off the list! This will give your child a genuine sense of accomplishment and provide motivation to keep moving forward.

5. At the beginning of the school year, make copies of your child's important papers, including schedules and permission slips, and post them somewhere very visible in the house. These visual reminders will keep the information top of mind for your child. Remember---"Out of sight, out of mind."

6. Begin maintaining a daily routine now as the summer winds down. Create a workable yet structured schedule to give your child a time frame in which each chore or task should be completed. Developing a routine doesn't have to be limited to just homework. It can also help limit distractions when children do chores, get ready each morning or participate in other day-to-day activities.

7. Noise (or not) can make a difference. Discover if your child works better in complete silence or with some background sound(s). If normal household or neighborhood noises are too distracting, your child might need a separate workspace away from this noise or a set of noise-reducing headphones in order to work. However, if background noise helps, the kitchen table or a set of headphones streaming (wordless or instrumental) music may help your child get assignments finished.

8. Allow your child to take small breaks between assignments or tasks. Walking around for a few minutes and including a drink of water or other appropriate beverage can go a long way in helping develop a better workflow. Short breaks can also give a child something positive to anticipate, which can in turn help motivate the completion of a task. Also, breaking big assignments down into smaller chunks or tasks can make almost any project much less overwhelming and far more manageable.

9. Keep it clean and neat! Clutter in your child's workspace can be a huge distraction. So, in order to keep your child focused on her assignments, encourage the workstation to be clutter-free and organized.

ADHD Strategies for School

1. A front-row seat can be most helpful. Talk with your child's teacher and politely request a seat for your child near the front of the classroom, if possible. Should your child's teacher allow free seating, it would be a good idea to encourage sitting up front on the first day of class. Having a desk close to the teacher will make it easier to be more attentive during lessons AND minimize distractions.

2. Write down ideas and thoughts. Suggest to your child that he write down distracting thoughts instead of blurting them out. This practice will help prevent disruptions in the class or during lessons.

3. Learning styles DO matter. Work with your child’s teacher to identify strategies that work best for the type of learner your child is. Whether he learns best by watching, listening or actively doing, finding methods that are in line with your child’s learning style can help to make lessons much easier to understand and improve focus.

4. Also consider asking your child's teacher if he may use reading tools in the classroom to help increase focus, concentration and retention of what is learned. Most teachers will be grateful for such a request. It might be a good idea to have a duplicate set of these tools for your child to use at home, too. Special note: In some states, if these same focusing tools are included in the accommodations of a student's IEP AND utilized in the classroom by the student during the academic year of that IEP, they can also be used when taking the state achievement test. Check with your school's administrators to confirm or learn more about this.

5. Sincere encouragement is always a good thing. Even though your child may try her best, at times she may feel discouraged (i.e. right before a major test, by receiving a surprising low grade, etc.) It’s important to remind your child of previous examples when she did do well, reassuring her that you know she can again succeed.

Secondly, we think that having the right resources to support you and your child in this good preparation for the school year could make all the difference in the world for both of you! To address this important need, we have collected quite a few resources to promote more focus and concentration both at home and at school. Consider taking a look at these resources now to see which ones might give you the support you need to help your student focus with more success.

Focusing Resources for Children with ADHD

1. They Do the Rest
Excellent articles and FREE downloadable tools to help parents and children get better organized and ready for school and home life(tools include school supply lists, family chore lists, parent/teacher conference question lists, etc.)
Tool List for Children: http://www.theydotherest.com/most-popular.aspx?nv=kids10&snv=mostpopular&mid=V012700&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=bing&utm_campaign=2014_ub_dtc_theydotherest_adhd_pede&utm_term=kids%20adhd&utm_content=kids_phrase
Tool List for Teens: http://www.theydotherest.com/most-popular.aspx?nv=teenager&snv=MostPopular

2. ADD/ADHD and School from Helpguide.org
Helping Children with ADHD Succeed at School
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/adhd_add_teaching_strategies.htm

3. 6 tips to coach your kids with ADD/ADHD by Elaine Taylor-Klaus, special to HLN
Elaine Taylor-Klaus is the co-founder of ImpactADHD, an organization that educates and supports parents raising kids with ADD/ADHD by providing weekly coaching tips and strategies. She is also the co-author of the e-book, ADHD in Reality: Tips for Parents from Parents.
http://www.hlntv.com/article/2012/10/15/national-adhd-awareness-week-coaching-tips

4. When ADHD Kids Fidget: Better Focus Through Multitasking by by Roland Rotz, Ph.D., Sarah D. Wright & ADDitude Magazine
ADHD children may actually concentrate, focus and stay on-task better with a little foot-tapping, gum-chewing or fidgeting.
http://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/3967.html

5. Reading Focus Cards | Focus on Reading and Learning by North Carolina Assistive Technology Program (NCATP)--posted July 23, 2014
Article about customizable reading aids available for children, teens and adults of all ages
http://attraining.org/atdaily/2014/07/23/reading-focus/

6. Reading Focus Cards Desktop App (Patent 8,360,779)
This DESKTOP app is the digital version of the low-tech, physical Reading Focus Cards tools (Patent 7,565,759), solutions for struggling readers. This app provides very practical support for children and adults with ADHD, dyslexia, autism and other conditions that can affect reading success. It promotes more FOCUSED online reading of almost ALL digital media (webpages, PDF files, Word docs, Excel spreadsheets & more.) In addition, the app supports touch-screen technology (where applicable).
1. For Macs (desktops & notebooks):
Visit the Mac App Store and search for Reading Focus Cards or go directly to
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/read-and-focus/id920617853?mt=12
2. For Windows PCs (desktops & laptops):
Visit Gumroad at https://gumroad.com/l/ReadingFocusCards OR visit the Microsoft Windows Store and search for the app called Reading Focus Cards. (No URLs are ever provided for apps in the Windows Store.)

Sources

Dealing with Distractions — Strategies for Home and School from They Do the Rest
http://www.theydotherest.com/most-popular.aspx?nv=teenager&snv=MostPopular

Tips to Keep Your Child Organized at Home from They Do the Rest
http://www.theydotherest.com/detailed-article.aspx?aid=402&nv=preteen&snv=Tips

For more information on customizable reading tools for better focus & attention, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com