Dyslexia

During our move we got word of a test date for Paige to test into our school district's gifted & talented program.  Because we were in the middle of moving, I asked her school to help prepare her for the tests. Of course they were more than happy to do so.  In doing that, they gave her a Phonemic Awareness test. Those results opened a whole new window for us about Paige's learning.  We got her further professional diagnosic testing and it was concluded from those results she most likely has dyslexia.  We don't have an official medical diagnosis yet, as she's just not quite old enough for that, but she most likely will get one when the time comes.  However, in the meantime, she has started professional tutoring to learn to read using a method that works for her.  It is based off Orton-Gillingham theories and is a tried & true system.  She will most likely be way ahead of the other kids in her class now that she has the methods that work for her.  We are incredibly lucky it was caught so early.  Most kids don't get the diagnosis until 3rd grade & they have to really remediate.  Paige needs no remediation as she hasn't even begun reading yet. She simply started on this learning path just like any other preschooler.  

The neat thing about dyslexia us we know so much about it!  Experts have figured out how to "open the pathways" in the brain for her to learn just like a person without dyslexia.  It will take about a year of tutoring to do that but once it happens she'll be "fine." She may need to go back to tutoring every now & then to learn new methods, but she'll function well in a regular classroom doing all the tasks that all mainstream kiddos do...which just a few minor accommodations. 

We are now in the process of figuring out what teaching method & cirriculum is best for her in kindergarten.  Be it Montessori or Public School.  I am in the process of talking to all of the kinder teachers at the public school to learn about their styles.  There are many things to consider, but we feel so fortunate to have so many good people in our life that can give advice, knowledge, experience and teach Paige what works best for her.  We will always be here for Paige to help her through all her learning struggles & triumphs.  Yay Paige, who is 1 in 5.