Homeschooling

Homeschooling

Children with dyslexia require direct, systematic, and individualized instruction in reading and spelling.  Some need additional help with math and writing.  Public and private schools cannot always provide this level of support, especially considering that many children with dyslexia don’t qualify for special education.  Because of this, homeschooling has become an increasingly popular option.  In fact, Dr. Brock Eide, author of The Mislabeled Child and The Dyslexic Advantage, states that, next to a private school designed for dyslexia, homeschooling is often the best option for dyslexic children.

Advantages of Homeschooling

  • Subjects can be individualized to your child’s needs.
  • Freedom to explore your child’s strengths and interests.
  • Freedom from negative comparisons to other children.
  • Ability to provide needed interventions and accommodations without bureaucracy.
  • Ability to incorporate outside services and therapies into the school day.

Choosing Curriculum

Although Decoding Dyslexia Oregon does not officially endorse or recommend curricula, we can share those which other families have found helpful for their dyslexic children:

Barton Reading and Spelling System – an Orton Gillingham program created by Susan Barton.  Designed for parents, tutors and/or teachers to use with individual children.  Each level comes with training DVDs and scripted instructor manual.

Aabecedarian –  A systematic phonics program written by Michael Bend.  Uses the Phonographix method (similar to Orton Gillingham, but only teaches reading, not spelling).  Inexpensive.

Sound Foundations – British reading and spelling programs which emphasize morphology.  Inexpensive.

Math-U-See – A visually-based math program using colored blocks as the primary manipulative.  Each level utilizes a DVD to provide short video lessons.

Right Start Math – A visually based math program with a wide variety of manipulatives.  Math Card Games book is a nice supplement.

Spatial Temporal (ST) Math – A visually based computer math supplement designed to teach and reinforce math concepts through visual puzzles.  Very few words/written language are used.

Touch Type to Read and Spell – A multisensory web-based typing program.  Introduces sounds and syllable types in the same manner as Orton Gillingham programs, thereby reinforcing learning.  Homeschool Buyers Coop offers a discount.

Writing Skills books – A simple inexpensive book series teaching grammar and composition to struggling learners.  Written by Diana Hanbury King, founder of the prestigious Kildonian School for dyslexia.

Finding Support

Homeschool groups can be found in most communities if you know where to look. Check with your public library, churches, and school district office.  Search online for Facebook groups.  Please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to share any homeschool resources that we know of.