Children with dyslexia often experience difficulties when it comes to reading, spelling, and writing. These reading difficulties often lead to feelings of frustration and discouragement in dyslexic children. It is important to note that dyslexia is a neurological condition that impacts how the brain handles language processing. Importantly, it is not a result of laziness or a lack of intelligence.
Dyslexia affects millions of children worldwide, making reading and writing a challenging journey. However, there is hope on the horizon in the form of Orton Gillingham, an evidence-based approach that has shown remarkable success in helping dyslexic children build strong foundations for literacy.
The first stage is to evaluate the student’s reading abilities, strengths, and weaknesses. This can be done by an experienced Orton Gillingham tutor. Then, dyslexic children are instructed in small groups. The order in which skills are taught by tutors is highly structured. Based on knowledge of how children naturally learn languages, this arrangement has been created. The core principles of the Orton Gillingham method include:
Phonemic Awareness
Dyslexic children often struggle with phonemic awareness, the ability to identify and manipulate individual sounds in words. Orton Gillingham breaks down phonemic awareness into a series of structured lessons, helping children understand the building blocks of language.
Multisensory Learning
Orton Gillingham engages multiple senses simultaneously. This multisensory approach combines auditory, visual, and kinesthetic elements, reinforcing learning through various channels. Children tap into their visual, auditory, and tactile senses to understand and remember language rules.
Sequential and Cumulative
The Orton Gillingham method is highly structured and follows a logical sequence. Lessons are cumulative, building on previous knowledge to ensure a solid foundation.
Individualized Instruction
Recognizing that each dyslexic child is unique, the Orton Gillingham method tailors instruction to meet individual needs. Teachers and tutors assess each child’s strengths and weaknesses and adapt their approach accordingly.
The Orton Gillingham method has had a profound impact on dyslexic children for several reasons:
Improved Reading Skills
Children with dyslexia often have difficulty reading. Orton Gillingham’s structured approach helps them break down words into manageable parts, making reading more accessible. As they progress, their reading skills improve, boosting their confidence and motivation.
Enhanced Spelling and Writing
Spelling and writing can be major challenges for dyslexic individuals. Orton Gillingham focuses on teaching spelling rules and strategies systematically, leading to improved writing skills. Dyslexic children learn to decode words and transfer these skills to their written work.
Increased Confidence
One of the most significant impacts of Orton Gillingham is the boost in self-esteem and confidence. Dyslexic children often face frustration and feelings of inadequacy in traditional classrooms. However, the Orton Gillingham method celebrates their progress, fostering a positive attitude towards learning.
Long-term Success
Orton Gillingham is not a quick fix; it is a comprehensive approach that builds strong foundations for lifelong learning. Dyslexic children who receive Orton Gillingham instruction are better equipped to succeed academically and professionally in the future.
The success of the Orton Gillingham method in helping dyslexic children build strong foundations is closely linked to the dedication of educators and parents. Orton Gillingham tutors play an important role in implementing personalized, structured lessons that cater to each child’s unique needs. They provide consistent support, encouragement, and guidance, creating a nurturing learning environment.
Parents also play an important role when it comes to providing support for dyslexic children. They advocate for appropriate interventions as soon as they notice the initial signs of dyslexia. In addition to working with experienced Orton Gillingham tutors, parents can contribute to their child’s learning progress by encouraging reading aloud, practicing spelling, and engaging in multisensory activities at home.
We can build a more accepting society where dyslexic children are helped rather than stigmatized by fostering understanding. The Orton Gillingham approach promotes inclusivity in education rather than only assisting dyslexic students in catching up. By recognizing and accommodating the unique needs of dyslexic learners, it promotes a more equitable learning environment.
Educational institutions are increasingly embracing Orton Gillingham as part of their inclusive education initiatives. By using this strategy, they make sure that every child, despite any learning differences, has an equal opportunity to succeed.
The Orton Gillingham approach can benefit more dyslexic children worldwide if best practices and resources are shared. Children who are dyslexic greatly benefit from the Orton Gillingham approach, which gives them the tools they need to overcome their reading and writing difficulties.
Final thoughts
While dyslexia certainly poses challenges, the Orton Gillingham method offers dyslexic children the opportunity to establish solid literacy foundations and tap into their full potential. This structured, multisensory approach equips them with the essential tools and effective strategies required to excel in reading, writing, and more. Orton Gillingham’s approach shines as a symbol of optimism, bringing about transformative change in the lives of numerous children and paving the path towards a brighter future.
