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What makes learning to read difficult? And how does having dyslexia make it even more challenging?

In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome literacy expert Louise Baigelman. A former teacher, Louise is the co-founder and CEO of the literacy organization Storyshares. She explains why reading can be so challenging for kids who struggle with dyslexia, and shares tips and strategies to help.

Tune in to get Louise’s expert advice on how to help struggling readers.

Related resources

• 9 terms to know if your child has trouble with reading
• The difference between dyslexia and dyscalculia
• 9 free public library resources for your child (and you)
• What is explicit instruction?
• Listen: Dyslexia is more than mixing up letters

Timestamps 

(1:08) Why reading is such a challenge for kids with dyslexia

(2:06) The meaning of explicit instruction

(2:37) Common reading struggles for kids with dyslexia

(4:18) Reasons learning to read gets harder as kids get older

(5:19) Ways to engage struggling readers

(8:14) How audiobooks can help

(12:16) The science of reading

(17:11) Activities to help support reading  

(22:53) Next steps and tips for parents of struggling readers

For a transcript and more resources, visit the In It episode page on Understood.

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Understood.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give