Episode Details

If you’re lying awake wondering, “Will my child struggle forever?” I want you to hear this clearly: your child is not broken—and dyslexia is not a life sentence. In today’s episode, I talk with Kat, a former client and now a psychology student, who shares what it looked like to go from a fourth-grade diagnosis to real confidence, strong self-advocacy, and success in college.

We unpack why early, specific testing matters, why the right reading intervention changes everything, and how dealing with dyslexia is as much about supporting your child’s nervous system and identity as it is about decoding words.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• how to know if your child needs dyslexia testing

• why the right reading interventions are life-changing

• how to support your child’s emotional regulation while managing dyslexia

• how to advocate for your child’s needs in school meetings

What’s really happening in the brain

When your child is “getting by”, it’s easy for adults to miss the signs of dyslexia. Kids who are bright and determined may develop coping strategies, like memorizing books or reading off cues.

Look for signs like:

• Spelling that doesn’t improve despite effort

• Slow, effortful reading or avoidance of reading

• A big gap between verbal intelligence and written output

• Anxiety, shutdowns, or reluctance to do schoolwork due to shame

Testing gives you the data and leverage needed to navigate school meetings and create an action plan.

The reframe parents need

Behavior is communication.

Your child isn’t lazy or unmotivated—they’re working harder than anyone realizes just to process information. Dyslexia isn’t a “defect,” it’s a difference in how their brain processes written words.

When you provide the right tools and interventions, children can succeed academically and emotionally.

What’s the first step in dealing with dyslexia after a diagnosis?

The first step in dealing with dyslexia is to replace fear with a clear plan. For Kat, the diagnosis was stressful at first, but it finally gave her a name for what she was experiencing and opened the door to the right help.

What to do next:

• Get a specialist-led literacy evaluation (not a general “academic check”)

• Match instruction to your child’s specific gaps

• Prepare for school meetings with clear A/B/C plans

• Track progress and come with data to support your case

Real-life example:

Kat’s parents walked into school meetings with data and a plan. Their preparedness changed everything for her support.

Why do schools resist IEPs and supports for dyslexia?

Because many school systems are overwhelmed, and dyslexia is still misunderstood. Advocacy matters.

What helps you stay steady:

• Bring data: test results, progress measures, etc.

• Make specific requests (e.g., minutes, methods, frequency of support)

• Document everything in writing