Here in Queensland it is our first day back at school! We had a bonus two weeks holiday (yes that’s why I was quiet on my socials and website) thanks to covid.
Today was the day when we get back into routine and send them on their way.
Going back to school comes with mixed emotions for parents and children.
Some children are nervous, some are excited, some are anxious.
Some parents are excited, some are anxious, some are nervous, oh and after 8 weeks holiday some are just relieved!
But what is it like for a child with Dyslexia and their parents?
I have two children with Dyslexia, one starting year 9 and one in year 4. Both went off to school happily this morning.
It’s not a big deal for my year 9, his only question was do my teachers now I get to use a computer for writing and exams? He has had early intervention using the science of reading, he has is strategies, his spelling still needs work (him and I have a plan for that) and he really enjoys school.
For me, as a parent of a secondary student with Dyslexia I feel like my son’s school is doing O.K. This week I will send each of his teachers a summary of his diagnosis, strengths, weaknesses, strategies, and adjustments. I do this each year. I recognise that not many teachers will read his 50-page diagnosis report and if I can simplify it for them, then I am happy to. It is also a great way to introduce myself to each of his teachers. Sending this introduction email also lets each of his teachers know that as a parent I am 100% here to support my child to reach his potential and that I want them to feel comfortable communicating with me about his learning.
You will notice I have bolded potential. I am going to spend a minute on this word. As a parent of dyslexic children, a teacher and a MSL specialist, potential is a sticking point between me and the school system. The system wants to educate our children to a line, as long as our children are getting a c (average) then everyone is happy. I am 100% happy with a c for my children but if their potential is more than that and they are not achieving their potential because accommodations and adjustments are not put in place, then I start to get a little cranky.
Why? I want my children to get to the end of year 12 and make the choices they want to make, not the ones they think they must make because they have Dyslexia. So, if they choose to do law or a trade or anything in between I want then to have the choice.
What about heading off to day one of primary school? My daughter is in year 4 and we have had 3 children at her school (she is the youngest) and her older brother with Dyslexia forged they way. Basically, the school are used to me advocating for my children. Thankfully we have a teacher that has had my eldest son, so I am hoping this year it is smooth sailing.
My daughter in grade 4 went off to school excited and a little nervous. She has a new teacher and due to covid no parents are allowed walk children in. She checked her bag against her list, 4 times last night and this morning, as she can forget things.
I start my primary school introduction to Dyslexia a little different. Today her teacher will get an email. Just a short friendly one that says hi, and lets her know she has dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia. My daughter finds time and remembering her schedule a little difficult so I will cover a few strategies we use to help her. This morning she was sent to school with two index cards that let her know what day and time she has instrumental music and that there are silent alarms on her watch to remind her. I will also let the teacher know that latter in the week I will send a summary of her report and that I would love to set up a time to meet face to face.
So how do you feel sending your Dyslexic child off to school for the first day?
Being honest, I always feel a little anxious. I know my kids love school and I love them going to school but sometimes it is hard having children that don’t tick the box for support. I want to be proactive with support for my children and I have the qualifications, skills, and expertise to offer that support, but I often feel like I am the squeaky wheel advocating for my children over and over again and that is tiring.
To all the tired parents out there if you would like a copy of my student summary I use sign up and I will send it to you.