Help for Parents of A Struggling Reader

You think your child is having trouble with reading...whether it's instinct or it's been pointed out to you. It's never an easy realization, but it's one that can be worked on! Sometimes children just need more time, but in other cases, they may need extra help. Trust your instincts! You know your child better than anyone. If you think there's a problem, there probably is. This is where you have to be their voice.

Don't give up or necessarily believe or agree that your child "will grow out of it." You may be told this. The fact is, whenever a child has difficulty with reading or with school, it can be an overwhelming and emotional time for parents and for the child. The more you all learn, the less overwhelming it will seem and the more you'll be able to act effectively and quickly. You are the best advocate for your child – keep asking, learning, and acting to ensure that he or she has the best opportunity to succeed at reading. No one else is going to do this for you or your child. Remember that.

Take a look at the following 8 Steps to ensure that he or she receives the help needed to succeed - no matter what age or grade level.

1. Find out if your child needs extra help: Talk to your child's teachers and doctors. This could be more than just a school issue...it could be a vision or hearing issue, as well.

2. Consult with the school and other parents: Make an appointment with your child's teacher and possibly the guidance counselor/social worker to review a plan you all can work together on. Having everyone on the same page will benefit your child the most. Talking with other parents will many times unveil a wealth of information, as other children have gone through similar situations and you can tap into other resources families may have already found and tried.

3. Know your options:

• Find out about IDEA -Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) – that ensures that children diagnosed with a learning disability will receive special school services (for free).
• Check other sources:
  LD OnLine,
  National Center for Learning Disabilities,
  National Dissemination Center for Children With Disabilities,
  Schwab Learning,
  Wrightslaw
• Put EVERYTHING in writing! Keep all your research, conversations and concerns in a log so that when or if things don't get moving or get worked on, you have a copy of the issue and conversation. It's important to document everything as you begin to advocate for your child. Keep your decisions, your choices and your notes with you always. This is your child you are fighting for.

4. Ask the school to evaluate your child: Send the principal a written evaluation request requesting that a specialist (reading) review your child's progress. Also, make certain that your child is being evaluated in his/her strongest language, if English is not the primary language in your home.

5. Consider an outside evaluation from an independent expert like a child psychologist or outside specialist. You can find names by contacting local Parent Resource Centers in your area.

6. Consider finding an advocate. An advocate is a professional, education consultant or sometimes attorney, who specializes in helping parents resolve problems with a school. These professionals can be expensive. Your local Parent Training and Information Center or a Parent Resource Center may have information on advocates in your area.

7. Consider hiring a tutor. There are many tutoring options including private tutors, tutoring centers, educational therapists, and formalized programs. Ask for recommendations and do your homework to find a tutor who has specific knowledge and experience in working with children who have reading or learning disabilities. Some tutors also can work as an advocate for your child in the schools and will work directly with the school to help get your child the help he or she needs while in their care, and while at home. Tutor programs and curriculum should be designed completely around YOUR child and the uniqueness of how he/she learns. Make sure that question and topic is covered when you are doing your own "tutor homework."

8. Support your child at home by providing as much academic support and emotional support as you can. There are many extra activities you can work on at home without adding additional stress to your child, that shows you are there to help. Always letting him/her know that you are there no matter what is part of the success equation, as well. Focus and confidence go hand in hand with these issues, so continuing to provide encouragement during this time will be key to overcoming the struggles.