October Newsletter

October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, so let’s celebrate dyslexia.  Too often, the difficulties with reading, spelling, handwriting, and written expression become the primary focus of a dyslexic child, especially in the educational setting.  However, dyslexic persons are very intelligent and highly sought after in the “real world” of business, art, and science. 

“One of the key strengths of dyslexic individuals lies in their ability to think outside the box. Their brains are wired differently, allowing them to approach problems from unconventional angles and generate creative solutions. This divergent thinking can lead to innovation and groundbreaking ideas in various fields, such as arts, sciences, and entrepreneurship.” (G. Felicia,  Dyslexic Strengths: Recognizing and Celebrating Unique Abilities,  https://dyslexichelp.org/what-are-the-strengths-of-dyslexia-people/ August 2024. ) 

Steve Jobs, creator of Apple, was one such individual.  He co-founded Apple and was instrumental in improving the Mac computers.  When the computers did not progress, he helped develop the iPod and iPhone.  Thomas Edison, another dyslexic inventor, perfected the light bulb and invented the movie projector and phonograph.  Imagine what life would be like today if not for inventors and businesspersons such as Jobs and Edison. 

Dyslexics tend to have strong visual-spatial skills, which allows them to think in pictures, not words.  This allows them to develop skills in architecture, fine arts, and engineering.  Leonardo di Vinci was one such man, believed to be dyslexic.  His art still speaks to us and many of his ideas led to further inventions which impact our lives today. 

Dyslexics are often resilient.  They struggle to read and write but keep trying to learn- no matter how hard it is for them.  Many of our students come to us frustrated because they haven’t learned to read= but once they start seeing the patterns of the language and realize English does make sense, they will soar.  It is hard work, but they rarely stop trying.

Because they have struggled greatly, many dyslexics are empathetic and caring people.  They are good listeners and can become strong leaders with these skills. 

What you can do:

Work with your child to find their interests and talents.  Then research to find some successful people in the same area of interest.  Artists include Leonardo di Vinci, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol.  Famous actors include Tom Cruise, Jennifer Aniston, and Ameer Baraka.  Musicians include John Lennon, Beethoven, and Gwen Stefani. A few dyslexic writers are Agatha Christie, Dav Pilkey, and Patricia Polacco.  Scientists and inventors, such as Thomas Edison, Alexander Graham Bell, Orville and Wilbur Wright, and Albert Einstein have impacted our daily lives. Several of our presidents have also been dyslexic; John F. Kennedy, George W. Bush, and George Washington are a few.  The links below can be a starting point for looking up people. 

Due to their special abilities, the sky is the limit for any dyslexic person.  To get through school, they may need support but once school is completed, they can accomplish almost anything. 

Famous People with Dyslexia, https://blog.ongig.com/diversity-and-inclusion/famous-people-with-dyslexia/

Boschen, Jessica  Fifteen Famous People with Dyslexia Who Have Changed Our World, STEM Education, https://stemeducationguide.com/famous-people-with-dyslexia/

Hampton, John,  11 Presidents who Overcame a Disability, Inc.  https://www.inc.com/john-rampton/11-us-presidents-who-overcame-a-disability.html

Boschen, Jessica  Fifteen Famous People with Dyslexia Who Have Changed Our World, STEM Education, https://stemeducationguide.com/famous-people-with-dyslexia/

Hampton, John,  11 Presidents who Overcame a Disability, Inc.  https://www.inc.com/john-rampton/11-us-presidents-who-overcame-a-disability.html