Podcasts about orton gillingham

Ep. 526 | Dyslexia & Elite Athletes: The Hidden Sports AdvantageSports Chasers Interview Sessions | June 8, 2026Muhammad Ali. Magic Johnson. Tim Tebow. Nolan Ryan. Elite. Decorated. Legendary. And all dyslexic. In this Sports Chasers Interview Session, host Kevin L. Warren sits down with Russell Van Brocklen — The Dyslexia Professor — for one of the most unexpected and powerful conversations in Sports Chasers history.Russell draws on Yale-based science from Dr. Sally Shaywitz's Overcoming Dyslexia to explain why dyslexic learners aren't broken — they're built differently. And in high-strategy positions like quarterback, that difference may be an outright competitive advantage.

Hey Friends~  Most of us don't remember what it felt like to learn language for the very first time as young children. We focus so much on letters, books, and what children see—but are we overtraining eyes while undertraining ears? After experiencing a brain injury that forced her to relearn language from the beginning, today's guest, Emily Cadiz, gained a life-changing understanding of what it truly feels like to struggle with communication and learning. As a music professional already working in special education, she turned to music during her recovery to help regain movement, speech, language, and reading — ultimately leading her into NIH research exploring music's impact on children's language and literacy development. In this episode, we explore the powerful connection between music, the brain, communication, and learning. You'll hear why music is such a natural pathway for language development and discover simple ways parents can use rhythm, movement, chanting, and song in everyday life to support children's speech, language, and early literacy skills. Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  hello@thelanguageofplay.com WEBSITE:  https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/ Have a QUESTION or COMMENT? Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play  

Moving out of state with a child who has an IEP can feel like starting from scratch, but federal law says otherwise. The problem is that while IDEA travels with you, the procedures, criteria, and even the language used to classify your child's disability can shift dramatically depending on where you land. Today, I'm breaking down what actually happens to your child's IEP when you cross state lines, and why that 30-day transition meeting is often too soon for anyone to make informed decisions about your child's services. I walk you through the federal protections that still apply, the truth about whether a new evaluation is actually required, and why the specificity of your child's eligibility classification matters more than most parents realize. The focus of this conversation is making sure you don't lose ground during a high-stakes transition. Remember, a new state doesn't mean starting from zero - but it does mean you need to be paying attention! My free resource, Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP?, walks you through exactly what to look for when you open your child's document and what the research says about the current state of IEP quality. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/ai-iep! Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: What can be influenced by your new state on top of the federal foundation, and why knowing your state's specific special education regulations matters [3:18] Key reasons that transition IEP meetings around the 30-day mark don't give schools enough time to truly know your child, and why you shouldn't feel rushed to sign anything [3:52] The truth about re-evaluations when moving out of state: you don't automatically need a new one just because you crossed state lines [5:06] The critical difference between "SLD dyslexia" and just "SLD," and why specific eligibility language matters for every teacher working with your child [6:09] The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) for military families navigating out-of-state moves, and what support is available at your installation [8:16] Why your child's complete records are your most reliable constant through every move, and what documents you need before transitioning to a new state [9:21] Key Takeaways: IDEA is federal, but states build their own procedures on top, and some build much more than others. A new evaluation isn't automatic just because you moved states; if it's within three years, it should still be valid. "SLD dyslexia" is far more protective than just "SLD"; specificity follows your child through every transition. Links & Resources Mentioned: Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) EFMP - Exceptional Family Member Program #77 My Dyslexic Child Is Changing Schools: Will Their IEP Stay the Same When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

You may have heard conflicting messages in the literacy space about whether you should be teaching syllable types—this episode is all about helping you sort it out. We unpack the controversy around syllable type instruction and ground the conversation in research, Orton-Gillingham principles, and real work with students who have dyslexia. We explore where syllable types genuinely support decoding, spelling, and morphology, and where instruction can go wrong or become more of a labeling exercise than a useful tool. We dig into the key questions: for which students? In what context? And how is the instruction actually being implemented? Most importantly, you'll hear how to make thoughtful decisions about instruction so you can better meet the needs of the students sitting in front of you every day. Resources mentioned in this episode: 5.11 Rethinking Phonemic Awareness with David Kilpatrick, PhD 5.6 The Structured Literacy Playbook with Dr. Melissa Orkin and Sarah Gannon (Part 1) (Part 2) Graphosyllabic analysis helps adolescent struggling readers read and spell words by Linnea C Ehri, Alpana Bhattacharya International Dyslexia Association (IDA) and the Structured Literacy infographic What Works Clearinghouse Orton-Gillingham approach We officially have merch! Show your love for the Together in Literacy podcast! If you like this episode, please take a few minutes to rate, review, and subscribe. Your support and encouragement are so appreciated! Have a question you'd like us to cover in a future episode of Together in Literacy? Email us at support@togetherinliteracy.com! If you'd like more from Together in Literacy, you can check out our website, Together in Literacy, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. For more from Emily, check out The Literacy Nest. For more from Casey, check out The Dyslexia Classroom. Let us know what you want to hear this season! Thank you for listening and joining us in this exciting and educational journey into dyslexia as we come together in literacy!

Hey Friends~  Many parents think reading begins with letters, flashcards, and sounding out words. But the foundation for reading actually begins much earlier—through listening, sound play, hearing sound patterns, understanding language, building vocabulary, and everyday conversation. So whether you have a toddler and want to give them the strongest start possible… or you have an older child who struggles with reading and you've wondered, “What are we missing?” …this episode is going to shed light on important skills that might need to be fortified. Today, I'm joined by speech language pathologist, Sarah James as she unpacks the building blocks that support reading success and explains what the research actually shows makes the biggest impacts on a child's ability to learn to read. You'll begin to understand how speech and language skills are deeply connected to literacy, and why some struggles may actually begin long before a child ever sits down with a book.   This conversation will likely cause you to see reading through a whole new lens. Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  hello@thelanguageofplay.com WEBSITE:  https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/ Have a question or comment? Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play   ABOUT THE GUEST:   Sarah James is an accomplished Speech Language Pathologist, SLP, seminar leader, keynote speaker and consultant. She is experienced working in urban, suburban and rural public schools as both the SLP and as a consultant for school districts around the country where she has offered speech-language pathologists practical and effective strategies for therapy. She served as president of MNSHA, her state's speech-language hearing association and was awarded the Honors of the Association.  Sarah's area of specialty is the relationship between speech language skills, literacy and academic development. She has wide-ranging experience helping SLPs to make connections between speech language-literacy skills and classroom expectations, curriculum targets and state standards.  CONTACT THE GUEST:   sarahjamesconsulting@gmail.com   IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES: 256 Melanie Jeffrey: What If Phonics Made Speech Easier? 248 Dr. Emily Levy: Effectively Teach Reading with Orton Gillingham & Multi-Sensory Techniques 238 Dr. Bibi Pirayesh: How an Educational Therapist Helps Kids with Learning Differences Succeed  230 Daniela Feldhausen: Speech Sounds and Reading Are Linked. Fun Ways Parents and Educators Can Help     WE'VE MADE IT EASY FOR YOU!  Love this podcast?  Let us know!  https://lovethepodcast.com/play Follow & subscribe in 1-click!  https://followthepodcast.com/play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play

In this episode of the Route2Reading Podcast, I sit down with Pryor (Orton Gillingham Mama) to talk about how parents can support their young readers at home using simple, effective, and realistic strategies. Drawing from her experience as both an Orton-Gillingham educator and a mom, Pryor shares what actually makes a difference—and what doesn't—when it comes to helping children learn to read. We break down what parents need to understand about how reading develops, how to make the most of just 10 minutes a day, and how to support children emotionally when reading feels hard. If you're a parent, or you work with families who want to help but aren't sure how, this episode will give you clear, doable next steps. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

You've finally reached a place of peace with your child's IEP, only to have a school move throw everything back into question. In the middle of a transition meeting, a new team member uses the word "comparable," and while it sounds like a promise of continuity, it often acts as a trapdoor for the very services you fought so hard to secure. Today, I am exposing the "comparable services" trap and explaining why that single word can lead to a drop in the frequency and intensity of your child's literacy support. I walk you through the federal protections under IDEA that keep your current IEP active, the specific red flags to look for when moving between districts, and why your home records are the ultimate evidence when sitting across from a team that has never seen your child struggle. The focus of this conversation is putting the power back in your hands during a high-stakes transition. We're talking about how to conduct a line-by-line audit of your child's new plan, why you should never sign a document on the spot, and how to ensure the individual child doesn't get lost in the administrative shuffle. Remember, your child's progress shouldn't be the price of a new zip code or a new building! My free resource, Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP?, walks you through exactly what to look for when you open your child's document and what the research says about the current state of IEP quality. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/ai-iep! Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: The legal reality of the "federal floor" and why your child's current IEP stays in effect until a new one is developed and signed by you [1:55] Why moving schools within the same district often has a smoother infrastructure, and what to expect when shifting from elementary to middle school [3:05] The risks of moving to a new district, where different resources and service delivery models can lead to your child's IEP being questioned or changed [3:47] The critical difference between "identical" and "comparable" services, and how that linguistic room for interpretation can lead to a drop in the intensity of your child's support [4:56] Why your child's records are your primary evidence, and the importance of having evaluations and progress notes in hand before the transition meeting begins [6:44] Key Takeaways: Federal law requires "comparable" services when a child changes schools, but this serves only as the floor. The move to a new district is a significant transition where a new team may question previous services or eligibility. The term "comparable" is open to interpretation and often shifts toward what is convenient for the school. Links & Resources Mentioned: Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

You're sitting in your child's spring IEP meeting, and the team moves through the Extended School Year (ESY) section in about 30 seconds. They mention that regression isn't a concern, check a box, and move on. You might not have pushed back in the moment, but that's usually because you didn't realize there was anything to push back on, and that is exactly what we are fixing today. In this episode, I reveal why ESY is so much more than just summer school or a reading camp, we dive into the legal foundation of IDEA, the logistical hurdles that often lead schools to avoid recommending summer services, and more. My goal today is to give you the language and the framework you need to open that door back up. ESY is not an afterthought or a "nice to have"; it is an individualized service designed to ensure your child has a free, appropriate public education. It's time to make sure that 30-second check-box actually reflects what your child needs to succeed. My free resource, Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP?, walks you through exactly what to look for when you open your child's document and what the research says about the current state of IEP quality. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/ai-iep! Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Why ESY often gets only 30 seconds of airtime during a spring IEP meeting, and the logistical reasons the school might move through this section quickly [2:45] Understanding regression and recoupment and why it's not just about what a child loses over the summer [3:41] How fragile, hard-won momentum in reading often can't survive a 12-week gap without continued support [4:07] Why emergent skills and breakthrough opportunities are critical windows that shouldn't be derailed by a long summer break [4:26] The Matthew Effect in reading and how gaps in services and long breaks without support can significantly widen the distance between struggling readers and their peers [4:59] The ways in which medical, behavioral, and individual factors play a role in making the continuity of services critical [6:17] Why addressing interfering behaviors during the summer is essential to prevent escalation and ensure a smoother transition into the fall semester [6:30] A reminder to check your specific state regulations to understand the language used at your IEP table [6:46] Key Takeaways: Extended School Year is a specialized service designed to meet your child's specific IEP goals, not just a one-size-fits-all summer school. While schools often look at whether a child will lose skills, they must also consider "breakthrough opportunities" where a long break could derail fragile, emerging momentum. While federal law sets the foundation, every state has its own specific regulations and standards for how ESY eligibility is determined. Links & Resources Mentioned: Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

When you open your child's most recent IEP and read through the goals, does it actually sound like your kid? Or does it feel a little generic, like it could have been written about any student with a reading difficulty? If something feels off, you might be right! There's a quiet shift happening in special education classrooms, and today we're talking about the two main reasons why IEPs are losing their individuality: a gap in teacher training and the sudden, massive rise of AI-generated documents. Let this be a reminder that AI doesn't know your child. It knows patterns, it knows professional-sounding language, but it doesn't know what your child actually needs to succeed. Today, we're looking at how to spot a generic IEP, why a plausible-sounding PLAAFP can be a trap, and how you can ensure your child's legal documents stay focused on the individual human being sitting in front of you. My free resource, Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP?, walks you through exactly what to look for when you open your child's document and what the research says about the current state of IEP quality. Grab it now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/ai-iep! Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: The gap between knowing the law and the clinical reasoning required to build a plan for the complex individual human being sitting in front of you [1:47] A look at the numbers and why more than half of special education teachers are now turning to AI to help manage the paperwork burden [2:50] Why it's important to realize that will AI knows what an IEP should look like, it doesn't actually know your child [3:43] Breaking down the PLAAFP and how a vague description guarantees a vague plan [4:37] How to spot a generic, plausible-sounding PLAAFP even when the language looks professional and complete [5:41] The hidden risks of using AI as a parent to navigate the process and why a confident answer isn't the same as an accurate one [5:56] How to get your hands on my new free resource: Is AI Writing Your Struggling Reader's IEP? [7:19] Key Takeaways: Federal law calls it an “Individualized Education Program” for a reason. If the goals could apply to any student in the building, they aren't good enough for your child. AI is excellent at producing plausible, high-quality text, but it's based on patterns rather than your child's specific evaluation data and learning profile. The PLAAFP is the engine of the IEP and when present levels are vague, the entire document loses its ability to drive meaningful progress. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

You're sitting in an IEP meeting and someone says, "We need to consider LRE," and everyone around the table nods like they just shared a deep universal truth. Meanwhile, you're wondering if you missed a memo, or worse, you're realizing that this one little acronym is being used to make a massive decision about where your child spends their day. Today, I'm stripping away the jargon to talk about what Least Restrictive Environment actually is, and more importantly, how it's being misused to justify what's convenient for the school rather than what's right for your child. Whether you're being told your child has to stay in Gen Ed at all costs or being pressured into a separate setting without the data to back it up, this episode is about moving the conversation from a blanket district policy to an individualized determination. Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: What "Least Restrictive Environment" actually means under the law, and why the word "appropriate" is the most important part of the sentence [2:53] How schools often weaponize LRE as a blanket policy to justify whatever placement is most convenient for their budget or staffing [3:45] A walkthrough of the full range of settings that many parents never even know are options [4:57] Why your child's specific data and IEP goals should dictate their placement, rather than a district's "full inclusion" philosophy [8:35] How to use the mention of LRE as a starting point for deeper questions rather than the final word in an IEP meeting [11:20] Key Takeaways: LRE isn't just about where your child's desk is located; it's about where they can actually make meaningful progress. There's a "Convenience Trap” that comes into play and schools often use LRE as a revolving door justification. LRE is just the beginning and you have the right to ask for the specific data, the alternative placements they considered on the continuum, and the evidence for why other options were rejected. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

In this 45-minute presentation, I walk through five beliefs about the science of reading. The intent is to spark curiosity and encourage conversation. Watch this presentation in tandem with my free eBook What School Leaders Need to Know About the Science of Reading. Use these resources as a starting point for holding much-needed discussions in your school around effective literacy instruction. If you would like support with facilitating this type of conversation, don't hesitate to get in touch with me here.Take care,MattP.S. Join me for the next professional learning event: a conversation with Dr. Kelly Cartwright, author of Executive Skills and Reading Comprehension: A Guide for Educators.Full TranscriptWhat School Leaders Need to Know About the Science of ReadingTranscript of a presentation based on the free ebook resource available to download.About MeHi, I'm Matt Renwick. I'm sharing this presentation: What School Leaders Need to Know About the Science of Reading, based on the free ebook resource available to download.A little bit about myself. I'm a father of two teens and a husband to Jodi, who is also a teacher. My son is currently in college — whenever I visit, I try to find something fun for us to do together. My daughter is a junior in high school. I'm also a very part-time bookseller at an independent bookstore in my hometown. This is our dog, Millie. She works Sundays with me and is excellent at her job. And one of the things I most enjoy is visiting national parks. My most recent trip was to the Rocky Mountains for a mountain biking trip — though I'll admit I'm not a big fan of heights, so I drove the rest of the party up to the trailhead and cheered them on from there.Starting With a BookI want to begin by referencing a book — not reading it aloud, but using it as a frame. It's called Duck! Rabbit! by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld. You may have seen it. It uses an optical illusion — is it a duck or a rabbit? One person sees a duck; another sees a rabbit.I've found this book especially useful for lowering the emotional temperature when we start talking about the science of reading. After reading it aloud, I typically invite a group to pause and reflect on these three questions:* When we debate reading instruction, are we arguing about what's best for kids — or about who's right?* Where in your work do you notice people looking at the same data and seeing completely different things?* What would it take for you to genuinely consider a perspective on reading instruction that you've resisted?If you're watching this with a group, I'd encourage you to pause here and have a conversation.How This Resource Got StartedThe impetus for this presentation came from a colleague who was supporting a new administrator. This new administrator was already getting inundated with requests for evidence-based workbooks and heavily phonics-focused resources. She reached out and asked me to share my take on the science of reading with this administrator.Here's what I shared in an email:First, reading instruction is complex. It's not a simple equation you can plug resources into and expect to produce readers.Second, science requires inquiry, not dogma. If a field is a true science, it will continue to conduct research, look at what's working and what's not, and reevaluate its philosophies in light of new evidence.Third, multiple sciences of reading matter. We can't just look at cognitive science. We also have to look at the science of engagement, the science of motivation, the science of efficacy, and the science of goal setting. These all matter.Fourth, authentic texts should support skill development. A lot of resources strip away rich, relevant text in service of isolated skill practice — and we know that doesn't work.Fifth, programs do not equal responsive instruction. I've heard this called “solutionitis” — the idea that buying a program will automatically raise reading scores. We know that's not the case.I sent that email and waited a few weeks without hearing back. I eventually reached out to my colleague and learned the administrator had left the position. My first assumption was that the complexity of the topic had scared them off — but actually, they'd landed a dream job. Still, the experience got me thinking about all the new administrators coming into these roles without much background in this area. That's what I want to address through both this presentation and the ebook.My Beliefs — A DisclaimerWhat follows is based on my current beliefs, grounded not just in my own experience but also in research and in conversations with colleagues who know more than I do in certain areas. These beliefs are evolving. I hold them with humility.Belief 1: Teaching Reading Is Not SimpleThere's been a lot of conversation lately about the “simple view of reading.” I'd argue that teaching reading is anything but simple. It takes a long time to become highly skilled at teaching readers.I recently came across a New York Times article titled “Kids Rarely Read Whole Books Anymore — Even in English Class.” I found it striking because when I taught fifth and sixth graders 25 years ago, we were reading multiple novels a year as a class. Then we moved away from that — toward anthology series, excerpts, comprehension questions, skill packets. I'm not saying whole-class novel study is a best practice across the board. But it's worth asking: we introduced all these programs, and the result is that kids aren't reading books anymore. How do we find the balance — where resources support instruction without becoming the curriculum? As Peter Afflerbach likes to say: How do we teach readers, not just reading?The Simple View of Reading — from Gough and Tunmer — reads like an equation: decoding + language comprehension = reading. There's research that supports this. The problem is that it's incomplete. It doesn't account for all the other ways kids become readers.One of the biggest promoters of this simplified narrative has been Emily Hanford's Sold a Story podcast. I counted the transcripts of the first eight episodes: phonics is mentioned 48 times, comprehension 10 times, and engagement 0 times. You can see how media shapes the public's understanding of reading instruction — and how that narrative flows into legislation. Wisconsin's Act 20, for example, is heavily phonics-focused. Some of the assessments it prioritizes, like oral reading fluency, can be useful indicators — but they don't even measure comprehension.An Active View of Reading — introduced by Duke and Cartwright — is what I promote instead. It still values word recognition and language comprehension, but adds important components: bridging processes (print concepts, fluency, vocabulary knowledge), and active self-regulation (motivation, engagement, executive functioning, strategy use). These aren't extras — they're prerequisites for students to become highly effective, engaged readers. Notably, this is a reader model, not a reading model. It recognizes that reading is also shaped by the texts we choose, the tasks we design, and sociocultural context — including diverse authorship, representation, and the absence of bias.A practical implication: expand your assessments. As a principal and teacher, I learned that what we measure is what matters. Right-to-read legislation may mandate oral reading fluency screening, and that's fine — but we can also look at attendance and behavior as root causes, consider whether language barriers rather than reading skill are the real challenge for some students, and include teacher observations and student voice. Think about what it means to take a fuller picture of a reader.Belief 2: The Science Is Anything But SettledI once posted this on Twitter:“I don't know who needs to hear this. Teaching a literacy curriculum program like a script, lesson by lesson, to all kids without considering their current interests, abilities, and needs is not scientific, drains the joy out of learning, and leads to inequities.”It got significant engagement — many positive responses, but also real pushback. Someone at the higher ed level responded that teachers actually love the script because it gives them structure. I understand that perspective. But the insistence that the science is settled — and that it's simply a matter of implementing the right program — is not only factually wrong; it's intellectually closed.Notice even the language: the science of reading. That definite article is essentialist, exclusive — like “the Olympic Games” or “The Ohio State University.” If you're for the science of reading, you believe X. If you don't, you're outside the movement. People have been pushed to the margins of these communities simply for raising questions. That doesn't feel very scientific.Any professional field that considers itself a science goes through paradigm shifts — a concept introduced by Thomas Kuhn. Normal science gives way to anomalies, then to a model crisis, then to revolution, then to a new paradigm. Copernicus gave us one example. I believe reading instruction is stuck in the model crisis — cycling through the same debates without genuine revolution. We can't change the whole profession, but we can make progress locally.One approach I've found effective: use professional journal articles to facilitate conversation — not to prove a point, but to create space for educators to engage with ideas. Rachel Gabriel's article “The Sciences of Reading Instruction” is a good one. It's balanced, uses helpful metaphors, and raises productive questions.Pair it with shared agreements (I use: stay engaged, experience discomfort, speak your truth, expect and accept non-closure) and a dialogue protocol — like the 4As — to make sure all voices get space, not just the loudest ones.Belief 3: Good Intentions Can Lead to Inequitable OutcomesWisconsin's Act 20 — our right-to-read law — was written in July 2023. Like many state laws of its kind, its language has been heavily influenced by certain think tanks, commercial providers, and media figures. It requires science-based early reading instruction, mandates universal screening and intervention systems, restricts certain curriculum approaches (no three-cueing in core reading curriculum starting in 2024–25), and requires professional development around structured literacy for K–3 teachers, principals, and reading specialists.There are also third-grade promotion policies. In some states — Ohio, Florida, Mississippi — students who are not deemed proficient can be retained. Up to a third of an entire third-grade cohort in some cases. The long-term effects of that are deeply concerning.I share this because I do believe most people involved in this legislation want kids to perform better. But good intentions can produce inequitable outcomes when:* Single scores become students' identities* A student who scored at the 24th percentile versus the 25th percentile on an ORF assessment receives a personal reading plan and a letter home — without anyone asking whether they had a rough night, or whether they still see themselves as a strong reader* We do things to students rather than with them, stripping away agency and voiceWhat I've observed as this movement plays out in schools: more scripted curricula, limits on responsive instruction, isolated skill practice, decontextualized text, and assessments that measure only what's easy to measure. The downstream effects include the removal of voice and choice, classroom and school libraries collecting dust, independent reading squeezed out, teacher professionalism diminished, and authentic tasks like project-based learning deprioritized.One counter-move: empower students to curate and organize their classroom or school library. This can be an ongoing project — lay the books out, let students decide the organization, identify gaps, and bring in culturally relevant titles. Use book order points and let kids choose. You'll see more engagement, more reading, and you'll free up some of your own time in the process.Belief 4: One Science Is Dependent on AnotherI was recently working with a team discussing teacher beliefs and their role in effective reading instruction. I posed this question: Imagine your principal removed all the core ELA resources from every classroom. Could your teachers still teach their students?After a pause, the group said — yeah, we could.So what would that look like?And that's when the real conversation started.I raise this because critics of the science of reading movement have pointed out that proponents often can't articulate a coherent theory. “Sequential and explicit direct instruction” is a process, not a theory. What's the actual theory of action for teaching readers? That question matters.One answer is an instructional model that allows teachers to be responsive. I've used Regie Routman's Optimal Learning Model from Literacy Essentials in two schools as a principal. What I like about it is the arrows going both directions — we move between whole-class demonstration, shared practice, guided reading, and independent reading based on real-time, informal assessment. If kids aren't ready, we go back. This takes significant professional development to build capacity, but it also inoculates schools against scripted program dependency.The larger point is this: teaching readers well requires holding multiple sciences in tension simultaneously. Cognitive science — comprehension, decoding, fluency. Affective science — motivation, engagement, identity. Metacognitive science — goal setting, self-efficacy, agency. These don't operate in isolation. When you weave them together — for example, using a classroom library project that builds both reading identity and cognitive engagement — you see real growth.How to build this knowledge in your staff: As a principal, I had to build my own curriculum. I subscribed to several journals — I didn't read every article, but I'd browse the table of contents, pull one article, read it with margin notes, and then summarize it in my Friday staff newsletter, linking to the original. I became an information distiller. That made it possible to walk into a classroom and have a research-grounded conversation with a teacher who held strong views — not as an expert telling them what's right, but as a colleague asking questions. What did you think about that article on Orton-Gillingham? It becomes a much more objective, productive exchange.Belief 5: You Can't Buy the Science of ReadingThis became real to me as a principal when a reading recovery interventionist was trying to get a first-grade student to come to his sessions. Reading Recovery is a highly evidence-based intervention — but she couldn't get him to come. We suspected executive functioning challenges and a history of reading struggle that made being singled out feel threatening.So she brought in a Venus flytrap. She told the student: if you come to my room, you get to feed it one fly.Eventually, I walked in, and there was a pile of dead flies next to the plant. This student had started bringing his own food supply. The teacher had to explain that they couldn't overfeed it. What started as external motivation — a Venus flytrap — gradually shifted toward internal, identity-forming reinforcement. She had the student, after reaching a benchmark, choose a few books he actually wanted to read. That was the celebration.You can't legislate this. You can't buy it. It's built over time through teachers developing deep knowledge — not just of reading, but of kids, of pedagogy, of motivation and engagement, of executive function, of the ways all these strands weave together into a reader's identity. It takes sustained investment in self-study and collective growth.This shakes out in school-level data as well. As a principal, I used to look at statewide scores and identify schools similar to mine demographically — Title I schools — that were doing better. Then I'd cold-call their principals and reading specialists and ask: what are you doing?Four themes emerged:* High expectations for every student. Inclusion was the default. Intervention was carefully integrated with Tier 1, not siloed.* Sustained investment in teachers. Not cutting PD days. Not just buying a program and saying good luck. Actually coaching and developing teachers over time.* Different programs, shared beliefs. Every school used something different — some used Units of Study, some used anthologies, one had developed their own materials. What they shared was a deep commitment to common beliefs and practices. One principal described respectfully but clearly inviting a teacher who wouldn't get on board to find a better fit elsewhere.* No superheroes. No one teacher stood out as exceptional. What they had was a willingness to have hard conversations and an evolving, collective commitment to what they knew to be effective.One practical strategy: develop shared beliefs as a staff. I used Regie Routman's Read, Write, Lead, which includes over 20 belief statements. Each year I'd put them in a Google form — agree or disagree. The first year, we had two shared beliefs. We celebrated. The next year, we focused our professional development on the areas of disagreement. The year after that, we had five. And we kept growing.As a principal, I could then walk into classrooms and reference those shared commitments — affirming what I saw that was aligned, and asking honest questions when something was missing. The expectations were clear. The conversations were respectful.You can also do this as a whole-group activity: post belief statements on chart paper, give staff colored dots, and ask them to place their dots on a spectrum from agree to disagree. Then have them talk about why. This builds not just shared beliefs but perspective-taking — recognizing that most people sit somewhere in the middle, and that the goal is to move together toward greater alignment over time.ClosingI want to close with a student I remember from third grade — a kid who by second grade saw reading as something you do in school, not something you love. A capable reader, but not a joyful one.In third grade, his teacher read aloud Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume. He related to Peter Hatcher — oldest of three boys, with a younger sibling who was like Fudge. He read and re-read that book until the pages were falling out of his copy. He loved it so much that he wrote some not-so-great fan fiction trying to emulate Judy Blume.If you look closely at the bottom left of the fan fiction — you can see my name there.That's how I became a reader. Not through a script. I'm sure I learned some skills in kindergarten and first grade. But what unlocked reading for me — what helped me see myself as a reader and to love it — was one read-aloud by one teacher who knew her students and knew what would turn them on to reading.Closing question: How do you choose to see your readers? Take a moment to think about how you're seeing them now — and how you might choose to see them a little differently tomorrow.Thank you for watching What School Leaders Need to Know About the Science of Reading. Please reach out if you have any questions. And thank you for your work, your leadership, and your readership. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit readbyexample.substack.com/subscribe

When you're in an IEP meeting, it's easy to focus solely on the "30 minutes twice a week" and nod along as the school lists off terms like resource room, push-in, or consultation. But here is the hard truth: those aren't just administrative logistics, they are the exact mechanisms that dictate whether your child's intervention will actually move the needle or just fade into the background. In this episode, we're peeling back the layers on service delivery models to understand the "where," the "who," and the "how" of your child's support. We're moving past what's convenient for the school and their schedule, and looking at what the research actually says about effective, systematic instruction. It's time to stop nodding along to terms you don't fully understand and start advocating for the support your child actually deserves, because that's what truly matters. Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: A realistic look at the pros and cons of moving your child to a resource room versus keeping them in the general education classroom [2:21] What these terms actually mean in practice, and why consultation might not be enough for a child who needs intensive, systematic intervention [2:58] Why small group size and skill-matching are the "invisible" details that determine if your child is actually making progress [3:28] Why there is no one-size-fits-all model, and how to identify whether your child needs a quiet, distraction-free space or support with transitions to stay engaged [4:03] A real breakdown of transition time, packing up, and group sharing, and why your child might only be getting 20 minutes of actual instruction [6:29] How to look past the logistics to determine if your child actually needs quiet, intensive support or in-class help to navigate their day successfully [7:57] The way to shift from nodding along to asking powerful, specific questions about group size and missed classroom instruction [10:14] Key Takeaways: "Logistics" like pull-out or push-in services, aren't just details, they are the critical factors that determine whether your child's intervention will actually move the needle. Follow the minutes and always calculate the actual instructional time your child receives. Your child's IEP must be built on their specific learning profile, not staffing convenience for them. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

Hey Friends~  It's national reading month - or "I love to read" month! So we are taking a quick stop in our series to focus on reading, but not only reading, but how reading can support speech sound development! Is your child learning how to read? Are you a bit puzzled knowing HOW to help them read?   If that is you you will love today's episode as we talk with a reading specialist on the very beginning of reading!  You will learn how to get the ball rolling and how to practice in your daily life in a way that is supportive and not overloading. Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn   CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  hello@thelanguageofplay.com Comment? Question?  Leave me a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play WANT TO WORK WITH ME?  Let's talk:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session   ABOUT THE GUEST:  Melanie Jeffrey is a phonics fanatic, host of the PHONICS RULES FOR KIDS podcast. As an experienced core literacy classroom teacher, formally trained in phonics instruction for children ages 4-9 (K-3), she has taught hundreds of children to read using phonics as the foundation. Melanie helps moms confidently teach simple phonics skills at home to their beginning readers in Kindergarten through 3rd grade, so that they can become strong, confident readers! She believes moms are fully capable of learning simple phonics skills to put on ‘rinse and repeat' phonics lessons at home. Melanie is wife to Bill, mom of an 18, 19 and 20-year old! Yes, her children were born so close, that she was often asked in the grocery store if the youngest two were twins! Melanie gets excited when kids can quickly apply phonics concepts to read with greater fluency! As a mom who shares your values, she wants to help you teach your kiddo to read with confidence! It's time to ditch self-doubt to the curb, and teach your child to read with confidence! CONTACT THE GUEST:   melanie@phonicsrulesforkids.com Melanie's podcast: Phonics Rules for Kids  FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15Zv7fb4sPD/ FREEBIE READING QUIZ - Can Your Child Read This? https://phonics-rules-for-kids-2.kit.com/4647399525 Printable Kindergarten Phonics Curriculum: https://www.phonicsrulesforkids.com/course/ Website: https://www.phonicsrulesforkids.com Dinalynn on Phonics Rules for Kids:  52. Child Struggling with 'L' and 'R' Sounds? Here's HOW to Help with Speech Pathologist, Dinalynn Rosenbush     YOUR NEXT STEPS: 5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91 Sign up for the Newsletter:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin 21 Days of Encouragement:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup To discuss working together:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session ** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com   THE SERIES "WHEN COMMUNICATION IS HARD"  253 When Communication Is Hard: An Overview for Parents of Children with Speech or Language Struggles, part 1 254 When Communication Is Hard: Childhood Apraxia of Speech CAS & Motor Speech Disorders, part 2 255 When Communication Is Hard: Speech Sound Disorders & Phonological Delays, part 3 3 EPISODES ON READING: 68 Do You Know How to Practice Early Reading Skills? Shannon Ali Shares How to Easily Incorporate Play and Practice 230 Daniela Feldhausen: Speech Sounds and Reading Are Linked. Fun Ways Parents and Educators Can Help 248 Dr. Emily Levy: Effectively Teach Reading with Orton Gillingham & Multi-Sensory Techniques   SPONSORS & PARTNERS:  The Lucky Find Bundle is specifically created for parents of children with unique needs — kids with big feelings, sensory differences, learning challenges, executive functioning struggles, emotional regulation needs, or who are simply wired differently. Mark your calendar - this free gift bundle will be open March 11-17.  Sign up for my newsletter so you don't miss the links! https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin   WE'VE MADE IT EASY FOR YOU!  Love this podcast?  Let us know!  https://lovethepodcast.com/play Follow & subscribe in 1-click!  https://followthepodcast.com/play

Have you ever left an IEP meeting feeling stuck? Maybe you asked for a specific service or accommodation, and the team said no? Or worse, they gave you a vague "let's table that for now?” You're often left feeling like the conversation is over, but I'm here to tell you that's actually not how the law works. In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on Prior Written Notice (PWN), the most powerful tool in your advocacy toolkit that nobody tells you about. We're moving past the "just trust us" culture of school meetings and diving into why this legal requirement is your best defense against vague explanations and stalled progress. Whether you are currently facing a denial of services or just want to be prepared for your next meeting, I want to provide the strategic roadmap you need to turn a "no" into a documented trail of accountability. So grab your coffee and your notebook, because it's time to move from "I didn't know that existed" to "I know exactly what to do with this." Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: A clear breakdown of what the Prior Written Notice (PWN) document is and why it is a mandatory legal requirement, not a courtesy [2:04] What specific things makes PWN so powerful [3:48] Key scenarios where this document becomes a game-changer, from evaluation denials to placement changes [5:33] The "hidden" right you have to request this documentation even if the school doesn't offer it or mention it [7:15] How your advocacy shifts once you stop accepting "no" as a conversation ender and start building a documented trail [7:36] Why PWN is the ultimate tool for transparency and accountability, and how it moves you from being one step behind to being a strategic partner [8:43] Key Takeaways: A refusal from the school isn't a closed door; it is simply the point where the documentation must begin. By using Prior Written Notice, you shift the entire conversation away from personal opinions and back to the specific assessments and data that your child's services are legally required to be based on. The Power of the Paper Trail: The most effective advocacy happens in writing. Links & Resources Mentioned: IDEA (Federal Special Education Law) #71 Why You Left That IEP Meeting Feeling Like You Got Played And How to Never Let It Happen Again When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

You know that sinking feeling in your stomach when you walk out of an IEP meeting, drive home, and realize you aren't actually sure what you just agreed to? You aren't imagining it, you aren't being paranoid, and you definitely aren't alone. For years, I've watched smart, capable parents get talked into "waiting" or backing down. Why? It's because the system has a very specific playbook designed to protect their budget and their schedule and not necessarily your child's needs. Today, I'm exposing the hidden language and tactics used in those meeting rooms. We're talking about how to spot goals that sound professional but measure absolutely nothing, what to do when your advocacy is labeled as "anxiety," and why the phrase "let's see how they respond" is often just a delay tactic dressed up as thoroughness. Trust me, once you see these plays, you can't unsee them and that is the moment you stop being reactive and start being the strategic advocate your child deserves. Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Why you aren't being paranoid or demanding for asking for the specific interventions your child actually needs [1:52] How to spot professional terminology that hides a complete lack of meaningful data or growth targets [3:38] What to do when the school team tries to make you feel like you're overreacting just to avoid addressing your legitimate concerns [4:25] Why waiting another grading period for in-class interventions is often just a delay tactic the system uses [5:09] A reminder that you should never feel forced to sign paperwork just because the team has "another meeting" to get to [5:58] How walking into an IEP meeting recognizing the "plays" before they're run changes your entire strategy as an advocate [7:29] Key Takeaways: If you leave a meeting feeling confused or second-guessing yourself, it's because the system's "playbook" is working as intended. Just because a goal sounds professional doesn't mean it's effective. If it doesn't have a clear baseline and target, it measures nothing. You are never required to sign paperwork under time pressure. Taking that paperwork home to process it is one of the strongest strategic moves you can make. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

Does it feel like your child has read the same Dog Man book three times, and you're secretly panicked they've hit a plateau? Are you worried that their obsession with a specific series is just a way to avoid a "real" challenge? Today, we're flipping the script on "series addiction" and looking at why that repetitive reading is actually a dyslexic superpower in disguise. In this episode, I dive into the fascinating research that shows children are 60% more likely to retain new vocabulary through repeated exposure to familiar stories. We'll discuss how the "comfort zone" of a series actually frees up your child's brain to master deep comprehension and critical thinking without the exhaustion of constant decoding. Plus, I'm also tackling how to handle school pushback when teachers insist on "moving up" a level, and more. It's time to stop fighting the obsession and start leaning into the growth. Pull up a chair and let's talk about why your child's "safe place" series is really the key to building a lifelong reader! Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: The "Series Secret" in action and what happens in my clinical sessions when a struggling reader finally discovers a series that "clicks [2:02] Why series reading is a literal superpower for the dyslexic brain [3:02] The big reasons you should prioritize your child's specific interests over arbitrary reading levels [5:16] How I use these books as high-value incentives in my practice to keep students engaged through the "heavy lifting" of literacy drills [6:33] What you can do to navigate school pushback and how to handle those frustrating conversations with teachers who claim your child "isn't challenging themselves” [7:16] Key Takeaways: Repetition is a retention powerhouse and reading the same series isn't "stalling" - it's a scientifically proven way to internalize language. A child's passion for a particular topic provides the "cognitive fuel" needed to tackle text that might otherwise be above their independent reading level. By using familiar characters, settings, and author styles, dyslexic learners can stop spending all their mental energy on decoding the basics and start focusing on deep comprehension and critical thinking. Links & Resources Mentioned: Hilo (Series) by Judd Winick The Bad Guys (Series) by Aaron Blabey The Brooklyn Nine by Alan Gratz Dragon Master (Series) by Tracey West The Sisters 8 (Series) by Lauren Baratz-Logsted Percy Jackson (Series) by Rick Riordan Mercy Watson (Series) by Kate DiCamillo Press Start! (Series) by Thomas Flintham Harry Potter (Series) by J.K. Rowling When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

Does it feel like you're constantly defending your child's reading choices to a well-meaning teacher who insists graphic novels "don't count"? Are you worried that letting them "just look at the pictures" is actually holding them back? Today, we're busting the biggest myth in the dyslexia community and looking at why the graphic novel revolution is the breakthrough your struggling reader has been waiting for. In this episode, I'm sharing the research that proves these books actually pack more sophisticated vocabulary than traditional children's stories - without the "wall of text" that leads to burnout. We'll talk about why visuals are a total game-changer for comprehension and how they allow your child's brain to actually process the story instead of just exhausted decoding, plus I'm also giving you the exact scripts to use when you get pushback at school and my personal "no-fail" book list to get your child reading voluntarily. By the end of this one, you'll stop stressing over "real books" and start seeing your child finally fall in love with a story! Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: What happens cognitively when your child swaps a traditional book for a graphic novel [2:28] Why visual context and high-level vocabulary in graphic novels actually reduce cognitive load for struggling readers [3:40] The key reasons reading graphic novels builds sophisticated literacy skills that transfer to every other type of text [5:28] How to find the perfect high-interest graphic novel to hook your specific reader [6:16] Simple, fun strategies to incorporate graphic novels into your home routine without it feeling like "schoolwork" [7:41] What to say when teachers claim graphic novels "don't count" as real reading - plus the research to prove them wrong [8:32] Key Takeaways: The ways in which graphic novels are “vocabulary powerhouses.” For dyslexic readers, illustrations aren't "cheating" but rather visuals that bridge the comprehension gap. Manageable "text chunks" build stamina and engagement is the gateway to fluency. Links & Resources Mentioned: Center of Teaching and Learning (University of Oregon) Hilo Series by Judd Winick The Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey Bone: The Complete Cartoon Epic in One Volume by Jeff Smith When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

In this episode we sit down with Deon Butler, former NFL wide receiver, author of The Gift & Curse, and a powerful advocate for people with dyslexia. Deon shares his remarkable journey from growing up with undiagnosed dyslexia to navigating the high-pressure, text-heavy world of the NFL, and finally receiving answers as an adult through a formal diagnosis and Orton-Gillingham tutoring. He reflects on the school experiences that didn't make sense at the time, the emotional mix of relief and grief that came with his diagnosis, and the unwavering belief of his grandmother that helped shape his resilience. Deon also unpacks the “gift” and the “curse” of dyslexia, offering insight into what students truly need and the importance of systematic change. Deon's Bio: Deon Butler is a national speaker, author, and advocate for students who learn differently. A former NFL wide receiver, Deon's journey defies expectation. He reached the NFL while carrying a hidden struggle: undiagnosed dyslexia. At 27, he sat down with a tutor and began learning what the system never taught him. That turning point became the foundation for his life's work. In his book The Gift & Curse: One Man's Journey with Dyslexia, Deon shares how poverty, trauma, and learning challenges shaped his early life and ultimately cost him a contract with the Detroit Lions. Today, he is a national voice for literacy, resilience, and educational equity. He has helped advance dyslexia legislation, speaks in schools and universities across the country, and inspires audiences to redefine success, build hope, and believe in greatness despite the odds. Deon is the CEO of Stand Strong Services LLC and continues to mentor, advocate, and speak across the nation. His story resonates deeply with students, educators, and families, leaving a lasting impact long after the event ends. Resources mentioned in this episode: The Gift & Curse: One Man's Journey With Dyslexia by Deon Butler Deon Butler's website Deon Butler's Instagram Deon Butler's Facebook page We officially have merch! Show your love for the Together in Literacy podcast! If you like this episode, please take a few minutes to rate, review, and subscribe. Your support and encouragement are so appreciated! Have a question you'd like us to cover in a future episode of Together in Literacy? Email us at support@togetherinliteracy.com! If you'd like more from Together in Literacy, you can check out our website, Together in Literacy, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. For more from Emily, check out The Literacy Nest. For more from Casey, check out The Dyslexia Classroom. Let us know what you want to hear this season! Thank you for listening and joining us in this exciting and educational journey into dyslexia as we come together in literacy!

Hey Friends~  What's really happening when kids struggle in school?   “Trying harder” just doesn't work!  Many kids benefit from a multi-sensory approach to learn reading.  It works because this actually matches how the young  brain works.  If your child is bright but frustrated, resistant, or falling behind despite everyone's best efforts, this episode with Dr. Emily Levy, will help you see those struggles through a new lens.  You will come away with clarity, compassion, and hope that you can share with other parents and educators of young readers.   Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  hello@thelanguageofplay.com Have a question? Topic you want addressed?  Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play   ABOUT THE GUEST:   Dr. Emily Levy is the founder and director of EBL Coaching, a specialized tutoring program that offers individualized one-on-one home, virtual, and on-site instruction using research-based, multi-sensory techniques. She is also the author of Strategies for Study Success, a 22-part student workbook series that teaches students strategies for test taking, note taking, reading comprehension, writing, summarizing, and executive functioning, along with the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook series, which helps students develop their fundamental decoding and spelling skills. Additionally, she is the author of Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math, a multi-sensory math program that helps students develop a stronger understanding of core math concepts. Dr. Levy graduated from Brown University and received her Master's Degree in Special Education from Nova University in Florida. CONTACT THE GUEST:   www.eblcoaching.com https://www.facebook.com/EBLCoaching https://www.instagram.com/ebl_coaching/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-emily-levy-79b1728/      YOUR NEXT STEPS: 5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91 To discuss working together:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session Sign up for the Newsletter:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin 21 Days of Encouragement:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session ** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES: 238 Dr. Bibi Pirayesh: How an Educational Therapist Helps Kids with Learning Differences Succeed  239 Marsha Familaro Enright: Montessori? Learn how A Curiosity-Led System Works! 231 Dr. Candace Holmes: NeuroFeedback: An ADHD Brain Re-Organized! 230 Daniela Feldhausen: Speech Sounds and Reading Are Linked. Fun Ways Parents and Educators Can Help Love this podcast?  Leave a Review here: https://lovethepodcast.com/play Follow & subscribe in 1-click!  https://followthepodcast.com/play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play   A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!   Cindy Howard  Lightening Admin VA   cindy@lightningadminva.com

Do you ever find yourself dreading the "well-meaning" advice from relatives who just don't get it? Are you worried that the chaos of school breaks will lead to more meltdowns than magic for your struggling reader? Today, we're getting real about the sensory overload and academic pressure that often hide behind the festive lights as I bring you your survival guide for family gatherings and school breaks! In this episode, I share my proven frameworks for shutting down the "they just need to practice more" comments and explaining dyslexia in 30 seconds flat. We'll dive into which routines are non-negotiable for a dyslexic brain and why I'm giving you full permission to ditch the holiday worksheets entirely, along with so much more. By the end of this one, you'll know exactly what you need to do to scout your "quiet zones," recruit family allies, and ensure this season is defined by connection rather than comparison. Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: A helpful response framework you can use for handling awkward holiday comments [2:37] Why you need to find your family allies ahead of time and not go at it all alone [4:11] Which routines to maintain to keep your child regulated while school is out for the holidays [4:53] The real reasons why your child needs a true academic break and a reminder that you absolutely can give yourself permission to skip the worksheets [5:54] Specific signs of sensory overload and social fatigue that often hide behind "bad behavior" during loud, bright, and crowded holiday events [7:15] How to approach building an emergency strategy and exit plan for gatherings over the holidays [8:19] Key Takeaways: That your child will remember feeling supported and understood long after they forget the details of a specific tradition. Why having an exit plan is a powerful strategy to help protect your child's nervous system. How to decouple intelligence from decoding and use a simple mental shift to advocate for your child. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

December is here, and are you dreading the holiday season because of the stress of thank-you notes, letters to Santa, and required reading? Have you ever watched your dyslexic child struggle with a cherished family tradition and wondered how to make it genuinely joyful? This episode is your essential guide to transforming high-stress, reading-heavy Christmas and holiday activities into meaningful moments. Today, we dive deep into practical, age-appropriate adaptations and you'll learn how to curate solutions for all age groups, discover empowering cultural traditions from around the world, and get an immediate action plan to implement low-stress changes this week. The secret to a truly magical season is adapting the tradition to fit your family's strengths, not forcing your child to fit the tradition. Listen today and unlock new ways to create joyful, lasting memories for the whole family! Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Creative and practical alternative solutions to address the most common holiday challenges that will ultimately work well for every member of your family [2:03] How to seamlessly curate age-appropriate adaptations for holiday activities across a wide range of age groups [3:38] A look at different cultural celebrations and how they offer unique opportunities for empowering and engaging adaptation and learning [5:15] An action plan you can use this week to confidently prepare and implement new or old family traditions that genuinely work for everyone, and reduce holiday stress [8:02] Key Takeaways: Stop forcing traditions to fit your child; adapt traditions to fit how their brain works. The holiday season is the perfect time to lean into your dyslexic child's natural abilities. Traditions from other cultures teach us that the goal is shared story time and connection, not decoding struggles. Links & Resources Mentioned: #65 Beyond Phonics: The New Science of Reading Comprehension and What It Means for Dyslexic Students When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

Your teenager just told you they don't care if they fail because they're ditching their accommodations. Sound familiar? If you're watching your child choose struggle over support, you are absolutely not alone. This episode tackles the toughest part of the dyslexia journey: when adolescents flat-out refuse the services that help them succeed. We peel back the layers to understand why this happens, and trust us, it's not just teenage defiance. It's about identity, development, and the crushing social cost of being different in middle school, among other things which you'll hear about today. If you'd like to stop fighting the compliance battle and learn the proven strategy of collaboration, this episode will show you how to swap control for connection, turning service refusal into a powerful pivot toward self-advocacy. The best part? This is a valuable skill they need for college and life, so press play now and let's move from frustration to true engagement! Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Why your teen refuses help and the difference between defiance and developmental changes in adolescents with dyslexia [1:38] The middle school accommodation crisis and the reasons that service refusal peaks between fifth and seventh grade [2:10] An exploration of the "shame spiral" where dyslexic teens would rather fail authentically than succeed with help [2:59] Why tools that worked in elementary school can undermine a teenager's need to assert independence and capability [4:05] How refusing services becomes a powerful way for adolescents to assert autonomy and agency after years of adults making educational decisions [4:35] The value of collaboration over compliance and an example from my experiences helping a particular student that demonstrates how you can reframe tools for buy-in [6:05] Why the ultimate goal should be self-advocacy and shifting your focus from managing compliance to teaching essential life skills [7:49] Key Takeaways: When your adolescent refuses accommodations, understand they are prioritizing their social identity and asserting control, and are not being intentionally defiant. Forcing services only builds resentment and you should instead focus on collaboration for buy-in. Ditch scripted advocacy and teach your teen the language to explain how their brain works and what they need in a conversational way. Links & Resources Mentioned: #65 Beyond Phonics: The New Science of Reading Comprehension and What It Means for Dyslexic Students When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode Dr. Emily Upshur and I talk about...   - Why kids often say "this is boring" when something actually feels too hard or frustrating. - How to tell whether your child's struggle with schoolwork might be about motivation, confidence, or a deeper learning challenge. - What to do when tutoring or extra practice starts leading to power struggles or resistance. - The pros and cons of reward systems, and how to use incentives in a way that truly motivates your child (without creating more stress). - When to consider a school-based or private evaluation—and how to know which supports will make the biggest difference for your child's unique struggles.   If your child has started saying they "hate school" or "reading is boring" this episode will help you understand what's really driving that resistance and give you practical, compassionate ways to make learning feel lighter, more motivating, and even fun again.     REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES:  

Your dyslexic child can finally decode words, but are they still struggling to understand what they read? Have you taught the phonics, but you're now wondering where is the comprehension? For decades, reading instruction focused almost exclusively on decoding, but the latest research is forcing a massive shift. In this episode, we dive into the Simple View of Reading and explain why decoding is only half the equation. Today, you'll discover the true foundation of comprehension: knowledge! The good news is that many dyslexic students possess strong reasoning and listening abilities, meaning they are perfectly positioned to build this crucial background knowledge when we provide them with the right access. Understanding this research empowers you to ask better questions and ensure your child's learning plan is truly comprehensive. By focusing on both systematic decoding and rich content exposure, we can help them bridge the gap and become the knowledgeable, confident readers they are meant to be.Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: How the massive research shift in reading instruction is here and why we need to stop focusing only on phonics [1:37] Decoding isn't enough and the reasons that comprehension requires more than just sounding out words [2:21] Why building background knowledge is the new foundation for literacy [2:59] A look at how science and social studies topics are now key for struggling readers [3:17] What to understand about prosody and why fluency is not just speed [4:53] How your child needs both systematic phonics and rich content exposure to truly thrive at reading [6:25] The red flags to watch for with reading interventions and what you can do to identify gaps in instruction that are holding your child back from knowledge [6:48] The action plan and immediate steps to take to ensure your dyslexic child accesses grade-level material [8:31] Key Takeaways: Reading comprehension requires knowledge, not just skills and decoding ability is only half the battle. Use listening to build the knowledge base. Fluency is about expression, not just speed: true reading fluency involves prosody. Links & Resources Mentioned: The Simple View of Reading (Formula) When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

In this episode, Brendan Lee speaks with Sarah Asome, principal of Bentleigh West Primary School and award-winning educator known for her leadership in evidence-based practice. Together, they unpack what Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) really looks like in action beyond buzzwords and flowcharts. Sarah shares how her school aligns Tier 1 teaching, intervention and extension to ensure every student thrives, not just those who struggle. Listeners will hear how Bentleigh West's team uses data to drive decisions, keeps variance low across classrooms, and extends students at the top through what Sarah calls a “diamond model” of support. This episode offers a practical, whole-school view of MTSS, one grounded in strong leadership, clear systems, and a belief that consistency creates equity. Resources mentioned: DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills) Spelling Mastery The Writing Revolution (Judith Hochman & Natalie Wexler) Letters Course (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling – LETRS) Story Champs Reading Doctor Program (Flinders University) Times Tables Rock Stars New Wave Mental Maths Core Knowledge Curriculum Response to Intervention (RTI) Diamond model Anita Archer – Explicit Instruction Endowment Foundation research (Education Endowment Foundation, on education support and learned helplessness) Victorian Lesson Plans You can connect with Sarah: Twitter/X: @SarahAsome Linkedin: @sarah-asome   You can connect with Brendan: Twitter: @learnwithmrlee Facebook: @learningwithmrlee Website: learnwithlee.net   Support the Knowledge for Teachers Podcast:  https://www.patreon.com/KnowledgeforTeachersPodcast About Sarah Asome Sarah Asome is a highly experienced educator and the current Principal at Bentleigh West Primary School. She has also worked in the UK and Singapore. Sarah has been instrumental leading the change at BWPS but also been able to support many colleagues State, Nationwide and in New Zealand to implement evidence-based literacy instruction in their schools. This has led to a significant increase in literacy and numeracy levels which now places BWPS as a high performing school. Recently, Sarah was part of the team working on ten Victorian Lesson Plans for Primary English including text units, spelling and grammar and punctuation.  In 2015, Sarah was awarded ‘Outstanding Primary Teacher' in the Victorian Education Excellence Awards. She has appeared in “Outside the Square ‘a DVD resource for teachers and in 2017 was featured on SBS Insight – ‘A Teacher Who Changed My Life'.  Sarah has completed numerous courses including Louisa Moat's LETRS training, Dyslexia Action (UK) and is a Certified Dyslexia, Reading and Orton-Gillingham specialist and trainer for Australia (OGI international inc). Recently, Sarah completed her Masters in Instructional Leadership at Melbourne University. In 2023, Bentleigh West Primary School won the Victorian Education Excellence Award (VEEA) for ‘Outstanding Inclusion Education'. Evidence in Action: The Primary Maths Partnership A long-term professional learning partnership built around what actually works. This 24 month program provides schools with 20+ hours of structured professional learning grounded in the science of learning spaced out over time — including explicit instruction, daily reviews, fluency-building, and problem-solving. We work together to create a practical, sustainable implementation plan — so what you learn becomes what you do. Optional Add-ons: ✓ Lesson modelling ✓ Leadership implementation sessions ✓ Coaching and feedback cycles ✓ Ongoing Q&A or online check-ins Learn more > brendan@learnwithlee.net  

Are you living through the BIGGEST change in dyslexia identification in decades? For years, parents have fought exhausting battles just to get their child evaluated, but new state legislation is finally shifting that burden from your shoulders to the schools. Today, I break down the universal dyslexia screening laws sweeping the nation, from California to Texas and reveal what you need to know. But here's the reality check: implementation is messy, and not all screening laws are created equal. You need to know what you need to do to ensure your child isn't screened without receiving the follow-up intervention they deserve. You'll learn the three most important questions to ask your school right now and how to use those screening results as powerful evidence for the support your struggling reader needs, along with a whole lot more - so let's get started. Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Why schools are facing new legislation requirements for student evaluations and support right now [1:37] The ways in which screening is not the same as an evaluation or a diagnosis [2:18] A closer look at what screening entails under the new guidelines and mandates [2:33] How these changes represent a significant shift in responsibility for identifying student needs [2:47] The reasons that identification matters so much for long-term student success and intervention [3:50] How implementation can vary drastically across states and districts, leading to inconsistent results [4:11] What you need to do now to comply with the new policies and successfully support your students [5:20] Key Takeaways: The new universal screening laws represent a game-changing shift in burden and responsibility from parents to schools. Early intervention is both crucial and time-sensitive. Despite over 40 states having some form of legislation, the strength of the laws and their implementation vary dramatically and local implementation requires parental oversight. Links & Resources Mentioned: DIBELS 8th Edition Materials Acadience Learning When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

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The cost of a school evaluation might be zero, but what about the years that follow? Are you prepared for the financial reality of raising a dyslexic child? Whether you're just starting your journey and trying to budget for that first private evaluation, or you're years into it and wondering if you're spending your money on the right things, this is for you. Today, we pull back the curtain on the expenses nobody warns you about and I share why middle-class families are often hit the hardest. Plus, you'll learn why the cost actually increases as your child gets older, and you'll hear the strategy successful families use to "spend smart," maximize school services, and find hidden scholarships to get their kids the help they need without going broke in the process. Don't let the financial anxiety overwhelm you! This episode will help you navigate the impossible choices and get the best outcome for your child. If you'd like to learn more about Step Up For Students, the organization I mention in this episode that empowers families to pursue and engage in the most appropriate learning options for their children, you can do so at www.stepupforstudents.org/ Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: How the real financial journey of raising a dyslexic child begins after the "free" school evaluation and some of the costs that can quickly pile up [1:00] Why middle-class families are often hit the hardest and the way in which they can often fall into a gap that exists [3:40] What the significant long-term costs of delaying intervention are [4:20] How to get a better return on your investment by learning to "spend smart" [4:50] How financial relief can be obtained through certain programs and the importance of having an actual financial plan throughout this process [5:34] Key Takeaways Financial burdens for dyslexic support tend to increase as a child moves into middle school and high school. The guilt of choosing between a child's essential dyslexia intervention and normal family expenses is a significant, hidden emotional and financial cost for many parents. The most successful families don't spend the most, they "spend smart" by learning to strategically use school services to reduce the need for private, out-of-pocket expenses. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

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Has your family life been taken over by one child's learning differences? Do you worry about the invisible impact on your other children who seem to be "the easy ones"? We often pour so much energy into supporting our dyslexic children that we forget about their siblings. Today, we're talking about the overlooked family members in the dyslexia journey: the brothers and sisters who might feel invisible, confused, or even resentful. In this episode you'll discover why they may feel guilty about their own success, take on adult responsibilities, or struggle with a feeling that their needs always come second. This is a conversation that will help you learn how to navigate these complex family dynamics, talk about learning differences in an age-appropriate way, and ensure every child feels seen, valued, and celebrated for who they are. Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Why siblings of children with dyslexia often feel overlooked and resentful, and what you can do to help them feel seen [1:03] The ways dyslexia can affect the entire family system, and the unexpected impact it has on typically developing siblings [1:31] How a child's role as the "easy one" can lead to them taking on inappropriate responsibilities and hiding their own academic success [1:52] What resentment and perfectionism in adulthood can reveal about the lasting impact of growing up with a dyslexic sibling [3:06] Strategies for giving appropriate attention to each child by understanding the difference between equal and fair [4:09] How open communication and celebrating each child's unique strengths can build a balanced and supportive family [5:30] Key Takeaways Dyslexia affects the entire family, not just the child who has it. It's important to understand that the "easy" child has needs, too. The key to a balanced family isn't giving every child the exact same amount of attention, but rather giving each child the appropriate attention and support they need as an individual. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

Today we're talking about dyslexia—what it is, what it isn't, and how parents can best support their children after a diagnosis. My guest is Rebecca Bush, a Certified Academic Language Therapist, Licensed Dyslexia Therapist, and founder of Lead Changes, a private practice that supports children with dyslexia, as well as the author of the new book Dyslexia and Your Newly Diagnosed Child, a compassionate, step-by-step guide for families just beginning this journey. In our conversation, Rebecca shares the myths and misconceptions parents often encounter, and the critical importance of early intervention. We talk about the early signs to look for, how language and advocacy shape outcomes, and the support systems that can make all the difference. Rebecca also offers practical, reassuring advice for parents navigating the emotional and practical realities of raising a child with dyslexia. About Rebecca Bush Rebecca Bush is a Certified Academic Language Therapist, a Licensed Dyslexia Therapist, and the founder of Lead Changes, a private practice that supports children with dyslexia and the families who love them. With nearly 20 years of experience in education, including roles as a classroom teacher, literacy leader, and founding director, Rebecca brings a rare blend of deep expertise and grounded empathy to every conversation. Rebecca specializes in helping parents navigate the emotional and practical journey after a dyslexia diagnosis, offering evidence-based strategies, advocacy tools, and encouragement that's both real and reassuring. She's also the author of Dyslexia and Your Newly Diagnosed Child, a compassionate, step-by-step guide for families just beginning the path. Beyond her work in literacy, Rebecca is trained in equine-assisted services and believes deeply in the power of movement, connection, and trust-building as tools for emotional resilience. She's known for keeping things honest, hopeful, and jargon-free, because parenting doesn't come with a manual, but it should come with support. Things you'll learn from this episode How Rebecca's work as a dyslexia therapist helps parents understand the complexities of language acquisition in reading and writing Why early intervention and structured literacy approaches like Orton-Gillingham are critical for supporting children with dyslexia How parents often grapple with feelings of overwhelm and guilt, especially given the genetic component of dyslexia Why community, advocacy, and resources like Dyslexia and Your Newly Diagnosed Child are invaluable for families on this journey How dyslexia can overlap with other learning differences such as dysgraphia and dyscalculia Why understanding how the brain processes language is key to effectively addressing dyslexia Resources mentioned Rebecca's website, Lead Changes Dyslexia and Your Newly Diagnosed Child: Parenting Essentials, Tips and Strategies to Help Your Child by Rebecca Bush Free Trust Your Parent Gut Quiz Rebecca on Instagram Orton-Gillingham Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to Season 5 of Together in Literacy! We're thrilled to be back and thank you for joining us. In this episode we're kicking off our new season by setting the scene for the overarching topic that will inform our conversations: What do students with dyslexia really need? The answer may sound familiar: more than just phonics! Our students need a comprehensive approach that sees the whole learner. We'll talk about this in-depth this season, with topics like going beyond explicit phonics, decoding, executive function, layered and responsive instruction, metacognition, and self-advocacy strategies. Resources mentioned in this episode: "Teaching Beyond the Diagnosis, Empowering Students with Dyslexia" by Casey Harrison Essentials of Dyslexia Assessment and Intervention (Essentials of Psychological Assessment) by Nancy Mather and Barbara J. Wendling Oldes:r podcast episode 1.15 All About Accommodations for Dyslexia 2.14 Using Evaluations to Better Understand Our Learners with Katy Vassar 3.12 Harnessing the Power of Assistive Technology with Katie Larew 3.14 Understanding and Embracing The Ladder of Reading & Writing (Part 1) with Dr. Nancy Young 3.15 Understanding and Embracing The Ladder of Reading & Writing (Part 2) with Dr. Nancy Young 4.2 Are students with dyslexia getting lost in the SOR movement? 4.4 The Foundational Principles of Orton-Gillingham (part 1) 4.5 The Foundational Principles of Orton-Gillingham (part 2) We officially have merch! Show your love for the Together in Literacy podcast! If you like this episode, please take a few minutes to rate, review, and subscribe. Your support and encouragement are so appreciated! Have a question you'd like us to cover in a future episode of Together in Literacy? Email us at support@togetherinliteracy.com! If you'd like more from Together in Literacy, you can check out our website, Together in Literacy, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. For more from Emily, check out The Literacy Nest. For more from Casey, check out The Dyslexia Classroom. We're looking for topic and guest suggestions for season 5 of the Together in Literacy Podcast! Let us know what you want to hear this season! Thank you for listening and joining us in this exciting and educational journey into dyslexia as we come together in literacy!

Ever found yourself down a late-night research rabbit hole about dyslexia while your partner is sound asleep, completely unbothered? Do you feel like you're fighting this battle alone, trying to advocate for your child's reading struggles while your partner says, "Just give it time"? If this sounds familiar, you're not alone, and this episode is for you. I want to show you why this divide happens and, more importantly, give you a path forward. So, instead of arguing, discover how to shift the conversation and get on the same page. Remember, this isn't about winning an argument; it's about getting both parents on the same team, fighting for your child's future, not with each other. Tune in and let's get you a united front. Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia! My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: The ways in which reading instruction has changed over the past 20 to 30 years, and why this means that old methods just don't work anymore [1:53] How your child is developing a story about themselves based on their struggles and the feelings this can lead to [2:08] The Matthew Effect explained: why children who fall behind in reading tend to fall even further behind over time [2:30] Specific questions to ask your child about how they perceive reading to shift the conversation from a problem to a deeper understanding of their unique brain [3:22] Why allowing children to articulate their experience in their own words can be such a powerful tool [4:18] A look at the framework for approaching a resistant partner using a strategic approach that moves from emotion to curiosity, and from confrontation to collaboration [4:34] Key Takeaways Waiting until the end of third grade to address reading difficulties can be highly detrimental. Shifting the conversation from arguing about a "problem" to being curious about your child's experience can be a game-changer. A reminder that the goal isn't to win an argument, but to create a united front. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Hey Friends~  Do your kids hate reading?  Wouldn't you love it if they LOVED READING?   Or… better yet, what if you knew how to teach them… from the start…  to LOVE READING?    In this episode, we talk about the foundations that give the confidence and skills needed to build strong reading early on.  This episode is targeted towards both parents of struggling readers and early readers.  You will have amazing insights into what the connection is between reading and speaking.  We will talk about the foundational threads that connect them both… which means…  being strong in these strategies, builds BOTH!   If you know of a parent or teacher who may benefit from these research - based interventions, strategies, and insights, please share this show!  Also, I would be delighted  if you follow, share, subscribe and leave a review!    Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  hello@thelanguageofplay.com   ABOUT THE GUEST:    Former DC attorney, Daniela Feldhausen  realized that her true passion is teaching kids to read. As the founder of Kids Up Reading Tutors, she's built a team of 20 specialists who help students all across the country overcome dyslexia, dysgraphia and other reading challenges. Their approach is evidence-based and efficient.  Students typically get caught up to their classmates in months rather than years. This accelerated progress stems from rigorous application of current research into how students learn to read and spell, sometimes referred to as the "Science of Reading." They've developed a structured literacy program that is then tailored to each student's specific needs, combining phonological awareness, Orton-Gillingham-based phonics and systematic spelling instruction. Their one-on-one virtual sessions create a judgment-free environment where struggling readers develop both skills and confidence—turning "I HATE Reading" into "I LOVE Reading!"   CONTACT THE GUEST:   www.KidsUpReadingTutors.com Daniela@KidsUpReadingTutors.com www.linkedin.com/in/daniela-feldhausen-kidsupreadingtutors https://www.facebook.com/KidsUpReadingTutors FREEBIE:: https://www.kidsupreadingtutors.com/red-flags-dyslexia   YOUR NEXT STEPS:   Email hello@thelanguageofplay.com for a REPLAY of the webinar. Sign up for the Newsletter:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin 5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91 21 Days of Encouragement:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup To discuss working together:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships conversations, schedule a call: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session  or email me at: hello@thelanguageofplay.com   A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!   The Center for Play & Exploration: Click here to set up a conversation with Director Dave Bindewald to help you generate new ideas and practices in your parenting, work, and life. Get unstuck and recover some delight on the way! Mention the Language of Play and get a 20% discount   IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES: 27 What Good is Mother Goose and Dr. Seuss? 6 Key Reasons to Indulge in These Classics 83 Aly Young: Your ”Wait and See” Is Actually a ”Wait to Fail” Approach.  A Discussion on Dyslexia, Learning, Language, and Literacy 87 Lynn Greenberg:  Is Dyslexia Your Superpower?  Find Out How! 147 What? Your Child Can't Read - And Has A HIGH IQ?? Lynne Roe shares a success story of dyslexia and dysgraphia 179 Lois Letchford: Dyslexia? Put Away What Is Not Working And Make Learning Fun   Love this podcast?   Let us know!  https://lovethepodcast.com/play Follow & subscribe in 1-click!  https://followthepodcast.com/play Have a Question? Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play

Durango School District kindergarten reading proficiency jumped 39% in just one year thanks to the Orton-Gillingham literacy approach, with students of all ages showing impressive gains. By Sadie Smith. Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/early-reading-scores-soar-in-durango-schools  This story is sponsored by Durango Gelato, Coffee & Tea and Tafoya Barrett & Associates. Support the show

In this episode, Rachael sits down with literacy expert and beloved educator Beth Gaskill, known by her community as Miss Beth, to talk all about how children learn to read. From the science of reading (yep, it's a science!) to why fun is essential in the process, this episode is packed with practical strategies for parents who want to support their kids' literacy journeys. They also chat about what it means to "redshirt" kindergarten, how to foster early literacy skills at home, and how to talk to your kids after school in a way that builds connection (not frustration). Plus, Rachael shares her own perspective as a former public school teacher and current parent navigating her child's first year in the school system. Inside this episode: What the science of reading actually means The Orton-Gillingham approach and multisensory literacy Why reading should be fun (and how to make it that way) How to support your child's learning style Understanding Kindergarten "redshirting" What to say when your child won't tell you about their day Rachael's reflections from 10+ years teaching reading Why advocacy matters and how to be your child's best advocate And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Big City Readers On-Demand Courses for babies, toddlers, and kids Beth's podcast: Play on Words Podcast: Sold a Story Follow Miss Beth: @bigcityreaders ✨ For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram!

Summer has arrived, and I'm taking a moment to look back at some of the most impactful episodes to date! I know this season brings a mix of relaxation and planning, especially for families navigating dyslexia. That's why I wanted to bring you our "Summer Rewind" series, a curated selection of previously aired episodes packed with valuable insights, practical strategies, and empowering advice to help you support your child's literacy journey through the warmer months and beyond. This episode, Are We There Yet - How Long Does A Dyslexia Remediation Really Take?, originally aired back in December of 2022, and I hope you enjoy listening to it again (or for the first time)! In this episode, I explore the different factors that go into your child's success with an interventionist. Your child's age, individual needs, and the intensity of their instruction all play major roles in their ability to make meaningful progress. My go-to answer when parents ask how long dyslexia remediation takes is that this process is a marathon, not a sprint. You should anticipate challenges and celebrate milestones along the way. Listen in to learn more about what to expect when it comes to predicting and tracking your child's progress! My Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP course walks you through every step of the identification and support process. I offer two options: the course itself, which gives you all the tools and templates you need to advocate for your child, or the course paired with a comprehensive literacy evaluation. Either way, you'll have a roadmap to follow instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, and you can learn more and apply now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/continuethejourney! My brand-new mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Why there's no quick fix for dyslexia remediation and you have to beware of promises for rapid-level grade jumps [1:00] The key factors influencing dyslexia remediation and the reasons that it's such a complex equation [1:43] How the intensity of specialized instruction significantly impacts progress [2:49] The "Matthew Effect" in reading and how the longer you wait for dyslexia intervention, the harder it becomes for your child to catch up [3:51] Why dyslexia instruction progresses a multi-year journey beyond the foundational skills [5:25] Key Takeaways Dyslexia remediation is a highly individualized and long-term process and there's no one-size-fits-all timeline. Early and consistent specialized instruction is crucial for managing dyslexia. Dyslexia intervention is comprehensive and it extends beyond just basic phonics. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

Today, we'll speak with Olivia Whicker, co-author of Talewinds™, Brainspring's new collection of decodable readers, about what makes decodable texts so effective, how decodables differ from other readers, and what teachers and parents should consider when purchasing a collection. Talewinds™ Decodable Readers by Brainspring are coming this September! Preorder today at https://brainspring.com/talewinds-library/ Developed with Brainspring's trusted Orton-Gillingham expertise, these readers follow a carefully sequenced path that reinforces phonics skills while bringing stories to life through rich characters and imaginative plots.  Designed to grow with the reader, each book builds confidence and fluency by integrating newly learned skills with previously taught concepts. Beyond the books, educators also receive digital access to a detailed Teacher Guide, filled with lesson ideas, skill breakdowns, Phonics First® Scope and Sequence alignment guides, and support for targeted instruction.  Take a look inside our flipbook at https://heyzine.com/flip-book/0f4a492fa4.html#page/1   Subscribe to our newsletter! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/S9onxP7/brainspringnewsletter Email: podcast@brainspring.com Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/OrtonGillinghamTraining YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrainspringOrtonGillingham Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brainspringortongillingham/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrainspringOG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brainspringog LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brainspring/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/brainspringortongillingham Podbean: https://ortongillingham.podbean.com/ Website: https://brainspring.com

Summer has arrived, and I'm taking a moment to look back at some of the most impactful episodes to date! I know this season brings a mix of relaxation and planning, especially for families navigating dyslexia. That's why I wanted to bring you our "Summer Rewind" series, a curated selection of previously aired episodes packed with valuable insights, practical strategies, and empowering advice to help you support your child's literacy journey through the warmer months and beyond. This episode, Prepping Your Dyslexic Child for the New School Year: 8 Steps to a Smooth Start, originally aired in August of 2023, and I hope you enjoy listening to it again (or for the first time)! In this episode, I explore eight tools that help students build their confidence and self-advocacy skills. I share ways to collaborate on goal-setting and building effective habits that help students address any challenges they may have experienced in previous years. Plus, I highlight my top tip for all parents who are preparing for a new school year – it's simple, but very effective! My Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP course walks you through every step of the identification and support process. I offer two options: the course itself, which gives you all the tools and templates you need to advocate for your child, or the course paired with a comprehensive literacy evaluation. Either way, you'll have a roadmap to follow instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, and you can learn more and apply now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/continuethejourney! My brand-new mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Why reviewing their IEP or 504 accommodations is crucial for building self-confidence and vital self-advocacy skills for the classroom [2:42] Unlocking the power of assistive technology through readily available tools often built into everyday apps your child already uses [3:06] How involving your child in setting realistic academic and personal goals gives them ownership and drives their success throughout the year [4:01] What you can do to help your child master the homework battle by implementing a consistent routine in this area [4:29] Practical organization strategies that will help your child immensely throughout the entire school year [5:03] How you, as the parent, hold the key to their success as the ultimate support system [5:48] Key Takeaways Parents can significantly reduce back-to-school stress for dyslexic students by proactively implementing an 8-step plan that covers everything from reviewing past performance to exploring assistive technologies. Fostering a dyslexic child's self-confidence and self-advocacy skills is paramount, and can be achieved through open discussions about their IEP/504 accommodations and actively involving them in goal-setting and routine development. Consistent routines, practical organizational strategies, and unwavering emotional support are crucial elements that empower dyslexic students to manage their time, reduce anxiety, and thrive academically and personally throughout the school year. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

This episode explores the effectiveness of Orton-Gillingham approaches to the teaching of phonics as well as which method is best for facilitating growth in decoding -- teaching students connect letters to sounds or sounds to letters.

Summer has arrived, and I'm taking a moment to look back at some of the most impactful episodes to date! I know this season brings a mix of relaxation and planning, especially for families navigating dyslexia. That's why I wanted to bring you our "Summer Rewind" series, a curated selection of previously aired episodes packed with valuable insights, practical strategies, and empowering advice to help you support your child's literacy journey through the warmer months and beyond. This episode, 7 Ways to Help the Dyslexic in Your Life Find and Give Themselves Grace, originally aired in March of 2024, and I hope you enjoy listening to it again (or for the first time)! We've all heard that pesky little voice in our heads say something like, “Well, you should've done XYZ, but you didn't.” Many dyslexics experience negative self-talk. I know I have! Reminding ourselves to be graceful in these moments, while sometimes easier said than done, is the only way through it. Today, I'm sharing 7 ways that you can help the dyslexic in your life give themselves grace. My Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP course walks you through every step of the identification and support process. I offer two options: the course itself, which gives you all the tools and templates you need to advocate for your child, or the course paired with a comprehensive literacy evaluation. Either way, you'll have a roadmap to follow instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, and you can learn more and apply now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/continuethejourney! My brand-new mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Why giving yourself grace is crucial, especially for neurodivergent individuals [1:32] The key reasons that educating your child about dyslexia is the first and most important step [2:32] How parents can celebrate their child's unique talents and find activities where they truly shine, fostering confidence beyond academic challenges [4:12] Normalizing mistakes as a valuable perspective for both students and parents on embracing errors for growth [5:32] Key Takeaways It is crucial for both adults and dyslexic children to practice self-compassion and give themselves grace, understanding that struggles and mistakes are a normal part of life and learning. Educating dyslexic children about their unique way of thinking, focusing on their strengths, and normalizing mistakes are fundamental steps in empowering them and building their self-esteem. Parents and educators can significantly support dyslexic individuals by maintaining open communication, setting realistic expectations, and praising effort over just results. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

Summer has arrived, and I'm taking a moment to look back at some of the most impactful episodes to date! I know this season brings a mix of relaxation and planning, especially for families navigating dyslexia. That's why I wanted to bring you our "Summer Rewind" series, a curated selection of previously aired episodes packed with valuable insights, practical strategies, and empowering advice to help you support your child's literacy journey through the warmer months and beyond. This episode, 5 Unexpected Ways Dyslexia Affects Everyday Life, originally aired in May of 2024, and I hope you enjoy listening to it again (or for the first time)! When people talk about dyslexia and how it affects people, the focus is almost always on improving a child's learning environment. They rarely talk about how the effects show up in everyday life, and in this episode, I look at five unexpected areas in which dyslexia impacts people. My Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP course walks you through every step of the identification and support process. I offer two options: the course itself, which gives you all the tools and templates you need to advocate for your child, or the course paired with a comprehensive literacy evaluation. Either way, you'll have a roadmap to follow instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, and you can learn more and apply now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/continuethejourney! My brand-new mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Why navigating airports, reading maps, and managing travel documents can be a significant hurdle for individuals with dyslexia [1:33] How the unique executive function demands and road sign challenges that make driving a complex task for many with dyslexia [3:44] Ways that dyslexia affects navigation on the water and the surprising complexities of interpreting nautical charts and symbols [5:10] Why reading recipes, managing steps, and ensuring proper cooking times can be a real struggle in the kitchen for dyslexic individuals [5:31] Some of the significant processing challenges that are being created by the increased use of subtitles in modern media [6:12] Key Takeaways Dyslexia's impact extends far beyond academic settings, profoundly affecting seemingly ordinary daily activities. Individuals with dyslexia often face significant challenges with tasks requiring simultaneous processing of visual and auditory information, quick reading of complex text, and intricate organizational skills. Understanding these less-talked-about challenges of dyslexia in everyday life can foster greater empathy and provide insights into developing more effective support strategies. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

As summer approaches, I'm taking a moment to look back at some of the most impactful episodes to date! I know this season brings a mix of relaxation and planning, especially for families navigating dyslexia. That's why I wanted to bring you our "Summer Rewind" series, a curated selection of previously aired episodes packed with valuable insights, practical strategies, and empowering advice to help you support your child's literacy journey through the warmer months and beyond. This episode, Traveling with a Dyslexic Child, originally aired in July of 2023, and I hope you enjoy listening to it again (or for the first time)! In this episode, I explain how dyslexia can create challenges within travel, including misreading signage, hard to read information, and time blindness. There are a lot of steps involved with travel of any kind, which is why lots and lots of planning is key! I provide strategies and tips to help navigate potential problems, including why a backup plan is especially important for when things can (and do) go wrong. Join me as I unpack the sneaky ways dyslexia can impact travel plans, plus tips and solutions to make travel an easier, smoother experience. My Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP course walks you through every step of the identification and support process. I offer two options: the course itself, which gives you all the tools and templates you need to advocate for your child, or the course paired with a comprehensive literacy evaluation. Either way, you'll have a roadmap to follow instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, and you can learn more and apply now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/continuethejourney! My brand-new mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Some of the unique challenges of traveling with a dyslexic child, including public transportation and time management difficulties [2:08] How dyslexia and ADHD can lead to "time blindness," impacting travel planning and preparedness [4:28] Key strategies for smoother travel with a dyslexic child, namely extensive planning and itinerary review [5:48] Ways to leverage assistive technology and apps like Google Maps and voice recorders to aid navigation and information recall [6:13] Why it's important to always have a backup plan for unexpected travel disruptions and what this can look like [6:48] Key Takeaways Dyslexia impacts travel and often leads to confusion and missed connections. The concept of "time blindness" is prevalent in dyslexic and ADHD individuals, which can result in forgotten essentials. Thorough planning and utilizing assistive technologies can make travel a more manageable and less stressful experience for dyslexic children and their families. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

As summer approaches, I'm taking a moment to look back at some of the most impactful episodes to-date! I know this season brings a mix of relaxation and planning, especially for families navigating dyslexia. That's why I wanted to bring you our "Summer Rewind" series, a curated selection of previously aired episodes packed with valuable insights, practical strategies, and empowering advice to help you support your child's literacy journey through the warmer months and beyond. This episode, Dyslexia and Summer Therapy - Yes or No?, originally aired in May of 2023, and I hope you enjoy listening to it again (or for the first time)! Research has shown that many children, especially dyslexic children, will lose reading skills over the summer without some support. If your child has been working hard with a dyslexia therapist after school all year and is doing really well, you need to think about what the fall will look like for your child based on the decisions you make for them in the summer. In this episode, I outline some options that make it possible for you to balance your child's summer. There are many ways to make this work for you, your family, and your child. Ultimately, it is a personal decision, and you should trust your parent-gut. My Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP course walks you through every step of the identification and support process. I offer two options: the course itself, which gives you all the tools and templates you need to advocate for your child, or the course paired with a comprehensive literacy evaluation. Either way, you'll have a roadmap to follow instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, and you can learn more and apply now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/continuethejourney! My brand-new mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered. Topics Covered: Practical approaches to maintain your child's reading progress while enjoying summer [1:55] Common setbacks and why taking the summer off can hurt dyslexic students [2:20] How to define your family's objectives for a productive and enjoyable summer [2:38] Options for specialized summer camps that offer both learning and leisure [3:09] Tips on adjusting therapy schedules to accommodate family vacations and summer activities [4:08] Why some families choose to increase intervention intensity over the summer to prepare for the new school year [4:32] Key Takeaways Even a short break from reading intervention can lead to a "summer slide" in skills. You don't have to choose between summer fun and academic progress; many options blend both. From specialized camps to adjusted therapy schedules, there are many ways to continue support. Ultimately, the best summer plan for your child is a personal decision that aligns with your family's needs - so trust your gut. When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you: Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again! Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid. Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read. Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to jennie@literacyuntangled.com or a DM on Instagram. I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you. Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform. Connect: - Visit my website - Sign up for my newsletter - Follow me on Instagram - Join me on Facebook

Send us a textIn this powerful follow-up to Episode 122, The Literacy View welcomes Dr. Phil Capin to dig even deeper into the comprehension crisis—and how we move forward. His new article, “Reading Comprehension Instruction: Evaluating Our Progress Since Durkin's Seminal Study,” reveals that despite decades of research, comprehension instruction still falls short in most classrooms.We discuss:Why comprehension instruction remains inconsistentWhat real, research-aligned comprehension instruction looks likeThe systems-level changes that must happen in curriculum, training, and leadershipHow schools and teachers can bridge the knowing–doing gapRead the article:Capin et al. (2024)Quote of the Week:“A substantial gap persists between the reading comprehension practices identified as research-based and those observed in typical practice.” — Capin et al.COMING NEXT WEEK:Trina and Doug return for a LIVE Q&A!Teachers across the country will be joining in to ask questions, share insights, and be part of the movement to elevate comprehension instruction.BREAKING News: A revolutionary breakthrough in dyslexia intervention is HERE!/Dysolve-Created By Dr. Coral HohIt's bold. It's brain-based. It's changing lives.And it's available for schools, districts—and individual families.This is next-level literacy.Listen now. Then email us: FaithandJudy@gmail.comLet's bring this cutting-edge work to YOU!

SHINING WITH ADHD #197: Dyslexia at School: How to Access Reading Support for your Child with ADHDThe Childhood Collective5/14/2025SUMMARYIf your child has ADHD and struggles with reading, you might be wondering how to get the best support at school. Today, we're joined by Michelle Henderson, a dyslexia therapist and advocate, to talk about how families can access structured literacy interventions and evidence-based reading support. She shares the biggest challenges parents face in getting reading services at school and gives practical tips for advocating effectively (hint: it starts with asking the right questions!). If you're navigating ADHD and dyslexia, this episode will empower you with the tools and knowledge to ensure your child gets the support they need! MEET MICHELLE HENDERSONMichelle is a teacher, a parent coach, and an advocate for children and literacy! She is a certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist, trained in the Orton-Gillingham approach with a master's degree in Reading Science. She is also the proud mom of a brilliant dyslexic learner. She lives in Hawaii with her four children and husband and loves to eat tropical fruit and spend time in nature.LINKS + RESOURCESEpisode #197 TranscriptFree Parent-Teacher Conference Guide Michelle's Website The Childhood Collective InstagramHave a question or want to share some thoughts? Shoot us an email at hello@thechildhoodcollective.comMentioned in this episode:Shining at SchoolShining at School is a video-based course that will teach you how to help your child with ADHD go from surviving to thriving at school for elementary and middle schoolers. On your own time. At your own pace. Use the code PODCAST for 10% off!Shining at School CourseHungryrootHungryroot offers “good-for-you groceries and simple recipes.” We have loved having one less thing to worry about when it comes to raising kids. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.HungryrootTime TimerWe can't have your attention and not mention Time Timer. This amazing tool helps with activity transitions, independence, and building executive function skills. Head to and use the code TCC to get a site-wide discount.Time Timer

Rebecca McAllister is a certified teacher, literacy specialist, and co-founder of The Active Reader. With over 10 years of classroom experience, Rebecca has always been passionate about helping young learners thrive—but it wasn't until she became a mom that everything shifted. Teaching her daughter to read made her realize that even as an educator, she had never been shown how to teach reading in a clear, systematic way. That realization led her to structured literacy and Orton-Gillingham training—and lit a fire that hasn't gone out since.In our episode, Rebecca and I discuss how she came to co-found Active Reader and what she's done to build the business up. We also get into strategies for improving reading skills and what we've seen during our teaching days. A quick but informative episode!For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode134.

In this episode, Casey Welsh, of Savannah Dyslexia, joins us to answer the most important questions about morphology. Casey Welsh is an Accredited Training Fellow with OGA and has her M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction, focusing on Dyslexia Studies & Language-Based Learning Disabilities. She is the CEO of Savannah Dyslexia, a private practice in Savannah, GA, focused on providing OG intervention, professional development courses for classroom teachers, and mentoring trainees through training and practicum for OGA Associate, Certified, and Fellow level credentials. As a mom of two dyslexic sons, Casey has a deep belief in the impact of the Orton-Gillingham approach on students' lives and a drive to ensure more teachers and interventionists are empowered with the knowledge and tools to reach more students. We are so grateful to have Casey join us to share her advice and practical tips for infusing morphology thoughtfully and effectively into our O-G lessons. Resources mentioned in this episode: Orton-Gillingham Academy Unlocking Literacy: Effective Decoding and Spelling Instruction by Marcia K. Henry Ph.D. Specific Language Training Once Upon a Morpheme Savannah Dyslexia Teacher Training Course Latin Morphology Freebie and other morphology resources 4.8 The Art and Science of Prescriptive and Diagnostic Teaching Teaching Beyond the Diagnosis: Empowering Students with Dyslexia by Casey Harrison We officially have merch! Show your love for the Together in Literacy podcast! If you like this episode, please take a few minutes to rate, review, and subscribe. Your support and encouragement are so appreciated! Have a question you'd like us to cover in a future episode of Together in Literacy? Email us at support@togetherinliteracy.com! If you'd like more from Together in Literacy, you can check out our website, Together in Literacy, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. For more from Emily, check out The Literacy Nest. For more from Casey, check out The Dyslexia Classroom. We're looking for topic and guest suggestions for season 4 of the Together in Literacy Podcast! Let us know what you want to hear this season! Thank you for listening and joining us in this exciting and educational journey into dyslexia as we come together in literacy!

In this episode, we are highlighting the vital role of bringing student awareness and attention to the forefront in effective dyslexia lessons. Grounded in cognitive science research, we discuss how intentional focus and metacognition can enhance learning outcomes for students with dyslexia. From building foundational skills in reading and writing to strengthening comprehension and retention, guiding students to engage with their learning process actively is key to unlocking their full potential. We share how we integrated these strategies into our lessons. Plus, we share practical techniques and tools that can be easily implemented to foster attention, boost memory, and support deeper understanding. Whether you're a teacher, therapist, parent, or advocate, this episode is packed with insights to help you empower your students and make a lasting impact on their learning journey. Resources mentioned in this episode: 1.9 Working Memory with Dr. Erica Warren 3.13 Setting Your Learning Spaces Up for Success with Dr. Cathleen Killeen-Pittman Language Trinagle poster Teaching Beyond the Diagnosis: Empowering Students with Dyslexia by Casey Harrison We officially have merch! Show your love for the Together in Literacy podcast! If you like this episode, please take a few minutes to rate, review, and subscribe. Your support and encouragement are so appreciated! Have a question you'd like us to cover in a future episode of Together in Literacy? Email us at support@togetherinliteracy.com! If you'd like more from Together in Literacy, you can check out our website, Together in Literacy, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. For more from Emily, check out The Literacy Nest. For more from Casey, check out The Dyslexia Classroom. We're looking for topic and guest suggestions for season 4 of the Together in Literacy Podcast! Let us know what you want to hear this season! Thank you for listening and joining us in this exciting and educational journey into dyslexia as we come together in literacy!

To follow up on our interview with Tiffany Solomon in episode 10, we brought her back with another special guest, Helaine Schupack. Helaine has played an instrumental role in Tiffany's life as she navigated her education with dyslexia. Helaine Schupack is one of the founding Fellows of the Orton-Gillingham Academy (OGA), which was founded in 1995 and now has over 3,800 members. Her mission to help individuals with dyslexia receive the interventions they need to thrive eventually expanded to her joining forces with the Orton Society (now the International Dyslexia Association) when it formed its Teacher Training Initiative. She's been the recipient of the Massachusetts Branch of the International Dyslexia Association's Alice Garside award. Helaine is one of Rhode Island's abiding champions in the field of dyslexia and was awarded the first Decoding Dyslexia Legacy Award. Resources mentioned in this episode: Orton-Gillingham Academy Decoding Dyslexia Rhode Island Orton-Gillingham Founding Fellows Overcoming Dyslexia by Sally Shaywitz M.D. Teaching to Read: Historically Considered by Mitford M. Mathews Reversals: A Personal Account of Victory over Dyslexia by Eileen M. Simpson Dyslexia over the Lifespan: A Fifty-Five Year Longitudinal Study by M. Rawson Dyslexics of Brown (limited print) 1.5 How Dr. Samuel Orton and Anna Gillingham's Work Support Social-Emotional Learning 1.6 The Orton Prescription and the Connection to Social-Emotional Learning 2.6 Q&A About OG 4.4 The Foundational Principles of Orton-Gillingham (part 1) 4.5 The Foundational Principles of Orton-Gillingham (part 2) We officially have merch! Show your love for the Together in Literacy podcast! If you like this episode, please take a few minutes to rate, review, and subscribe. Your support and encouragement are so appreciated! Have a question you'd like us to cover in a future episode of Together in Literacy? Email us at support@togetherinliteracy.com! If you'd like more from Together in Literacy, you can check out our website, Together in Literacy, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. For more from Emily, check out The Literacy Nest. For more from Casey, check out The Dyslexia Classroom. We're looking for topic and guest suggestions for season 4 of the Together in Literacy Podcast! Let us know what you want to hear this season! Thank you for listening and joining us in this exciting and educational journey into dyslexia as we come together in literacy!