Literacy Untangled Podcast

By Jennie Sjursen

Does your child struggle with reading and writing? Do you suspect they have dyslexia? Real world answers to all your questions about dyslexia and ways to help your child is exactly what your get when ... more

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FAQs about Literacy Untangled Podcast:

How many episodes does Literacy Untangled Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 67 episodes available.

Literacy Untangled Podcast episodes:

November 21, 2025#66 When Your Teen Says “I’m Done”: Navigating Service Refusal in Adolescence
Your teenager just told you they don't care if they fail because they're ditching their accommodations. Sound familiar? If you're watching your child choose struggle over support, you are absolutely not alone. This episode tackles the toughest part of the dyslexia journey: when adolescents flat-out refuse the services that help them succeed.
We peel back the layers to understand why this happens, and trust us, it’s not just teenage defiance. It’s about identity, development, and the crushing social cost of being different in middle school, among other things which you’ll hear about today.
If you’d like to stop fighting the compliance battle and learn the proven strategy of collaboration, this episode will show you how to swap control for connection, turning service refusal into a powerful pivot toward self-advocacy. The best part? This is a valuable skill they need for college and life, so press play now and let’s move from frustration to true engagement!

Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
Why your teen refuses help and the difference between defiance and developmental changes in adolescents with dyslexia [1:38]
The middle school accommodation crisis and the reasons that service refusal peaks between fifth and seventh grade [2:10]
An exploration of the "shame spiral" where dyslexic teens would rather fail authentically than succeed with help [2:59]
Why tools that worked in elementary school can undermine a teenager's need to assert independence and capability [4:05]
How refusing services becomes a powerful way for adolescents to assert autonomy and agency after years of adults making educational decisions [4:35]
The value of collaboration over compliance and an example from my experiences helping a particular student that demonstrates how you can reframe tools for buy-in [6:05]
Why the ultimate goal should be self-advocacy and shifting your focus from managing compliance to teaching essential life skills [7:49]

Key Takeaways:
When your adolescent refuses accommodations, understand they are prioritizing their social identity and asserting control, and are not being intentionally defiant.
Forcing services only builds resentment and you should instead focus on collaboration for buy-in.
Ditch scripted advocacy and teach your teen the language to explain how their brain works and what they need in a conversational way.

Links & Resources Mentioned:
#65 Beyond Phonics: The New Science of Reading Comprehension and What It Means for Dyslexic Students

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.
Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
...more
11min
November 07, 2025#65 Beyond Phonics: The New Science of Reading Comprehension and What It Means for Dyslexic Students
Your dyslexic child can finally decode words, but are they still struggling to understand what they read? Have you taught the phonics, but you’re now wondering where is the comprehension? For decades, reading instruction focused almost exclusively on decoding, but the latest research is forcing a massive shift. In this episode, we dive into the Simple View of Reading and explain why decoding is only half the equation.
Today, you’ll discover the true foundation of comprehension: knowledge!
The good news is that many dyslexic students possess strong reasoning and listening abilities, meaning they are perfectly positioned to build this crucial background knowledge when we provide them with the right access. Understanding this research empowers you to ask better questions and ensure your child's learning plan is truly comprehensive. By focusing on both systematic decoding and rich content exposure, we can help them bridge the gap and become the knowledgeable, confident readers they are meant to be.

Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
How the massive research shift in reading instruction is here and why we need to stop focusing only on phonics [1:37]
Decoding isn’t enough and the reasons that comprehension requires more than just sounding out words [2:21]
Why building background knowledge is the new foundation for literacy [2:59]
A look at how science and social studies topics are now key for struggling readers [3:17]
What to understand about prosody and why fluency is not just speed [4:53]
How your child needs both systematic phonics and rich content exposure to truly thrive at reading [6:25]
The red flags to watch for with reading interventions and what you can do to identify gaps in instruction that are holding your child back from knowledge [6:48]
The action plan and immediate steps to take to ensure your dyslexic child accesses grade-level material [8:31]

Key Takeaways:
Reading comprehension requires knowledge, not just skills and decoding ability is only half the battle.
Use listening to build the knowledge base.
Fluency is about expression, not just speed: true reading fluency involves prosody.

Links & Resources Mentioned:
The Simple View of Reading (Formula)

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
...more
11min
October 24, 2025#64 The Dyslexia Screening Revolution: How New Laws Are Changing Everything for Parents
Are you living through the BIGGEST change in dyslexia identification in decades? For years, parents have fought exhausting battles just to get their child evaluated, but new state legislation is finally shifting that burden from your shoulders to the schools. Today, I break down the universal dyslexia screening laws sweeping the nation, from California to Texas and reveal what you need to know.
But here’s the reality check: implementation is messy, and not all screening laws are created equal. You need to know what you need to do to ensure your child isn't screened without receiving the follow-up intervention they deserve.
You’ll learn the three most important questions to ask your school right now and how to use those screening results as powerful evidence for the support your struggling reader needs, along with a whole lot more - so let’s get started.
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
Why schools are facing new legislation requirements for student evaluations and support right now [1:37]
The ways in which screening is not the same as an evaluation or a diagnosis [2:18]
A closer look at what screening entails under the new guidelines and mandates [2:33]
How these changes represent a significant shift in responsibility for identifying student needs [2:47]
The reasons that identification matters so much for long-term student success and intervention [3:50]
How implementation can vary drastically across states and districts, leading to inconsistent results [4:11]
What you need to do now to comply with the new policies and successfully support your students [5:20]

Key Takeaways:
The new universal screening laws represent a game-changing shift in burden and responsibility from parents to schools.
Early intervention is both crucial and time-sensitive.
Despite over 40 states having some form of legislation, the strength of the laws and their implementation vary dramatically and local implementation requires parental oversight.

Links & Resources Mentioned:
DIBELS 8th Edition Materials
Acadience Learning

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
...more
9min
October 10, 2025#63 The Hidden Price Tag of Dyslexia: What No One Tells You About the Real Costs
The cost of a school evaluation might be zero, but what about the years that follow? Are you prepared for the financial reality of raising a dyslexic child? Whether you're just starting your journey and trying to budget for that first private evaluation, or you're years into it and wondering if you're spending your money on the right things, this is for you.
Today, we pull back the curtain on the expenses nobody warns you about and I share why middle-class families are often hit the hardest. Plus, you’ll learn why the cost actually increases as your child gets older, and you’ll hear the strategy successful families use to "spend smart," maximize school services, and find hidden scholarships to get their kids the help they need without going broke in the process.
Don't let the financial anxiety overwhelm you! This episode will help you navigate the impossible choices and get the best outcome for your child.
If you’d like to learn more about Step Up For Students, the organization I mention in this episode that empowers families to pursue and engage in the most appropriate learning options for their children, you can do so at www.stepupforstudents.org/
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
How the real financial journey of raising a dyslexic child begins after the "free" school evaluation and some of the costs that can quickly pile up [1:00]
Why middle-class families are often hit the hardest and the way in which they can often fall into a gap that exists [3:40]
What the significant long-term costs of delaying intervention are [4:20]
How to get a better return on your investment by learning to "spend smart" [4:50]
How financial relief can be obtained through certain programs and the importance of having an actual financial plan throughout this process [5:34]

Key Takeaways
Financial burdens for dyslexic support tend to increase as a child moves into middle school and high school.
The guilt of choosing between a child's essential dyslexia intervention and normal family expenses is a significant, hidden emotional and financial cost for many parents.
The most successful families don't spend the most, they "spend smart" by learning to strategically use school services to reduce the need for private, out-of-pocket expenses.

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
...more
8min
September 26, 2025#62 The Forgotten Family Members: How Dyslexia Affects Siblings Who Don't Struggle
Has your family life been taken over by one child's learning differences? Do you worry about the invisible impact on your other children who seem to be "the easy ones"? We often pour so much energy into supporting our dyslexic children that we forget about their siblings. Today, we're talking about the overlooked family members in the dyslexia journey: the brothers and sisters who might feel invisible, confused, or even resentful.
In this episode you’ll discover why they may feel guilty about their own success, take on adult responsibilities, or struggle with a feeling that their needs always come second. This is a conversation that will help you learn how to navigate these complex family dynamics, talk about learning differences in an age-appropriate way, and ensure every child feels seen, valued, and celebrated for who they are.
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
Why siblings of children with dyslexia often feel overlooked and resentful, and what you can do to help them feel seen [1:03]
The ways dyslexia can affect the entire family system, and the unexpected impact it has on typically developing siblings [1:31]
How a child's role as the "easy one" can lead to them taking on inappropriate responsibilities and hiding their own academic success [1:52]
What resentment and perfectionism in adulthood can reveal about the lasting impact of growing up with a dyslexic sibling [3:06]
Strategies for giving appropriate attention to each child by understanding the difference between equal and fair [4:09]
How open communication and celebrating each child's unique strengths can build a balanced and supportive family [5:30]
Key Takeaways
Dyslexia affects the entire family, not just the child who has it.
It’s important to understand that the "easy" child has needs, too.
The key to a balanced family isn't giving every child the exact same amount of attention, but rather giving each child the appropriate attention and support they need as an individual.
When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.
Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
...more
7min
September 12, 2025#61 - When One Parent Says 'Just Give It Time' and the Other Is Researching Dyslexia at Midnight
Ever found yourself down a late-night research rabbit hole about dyslexia while your partner is sound asleep, completely unbothered? Do you feel like you're fighting this battle alone, trying to advocate for your child's reading struggles while your partner says, "Just give it time"? If this sounds familiar, you're not alone, and this episode is for you.
I want to show you why this divide happens and, more importantly, give you a path forward. So, instead of arguing, discover how to shift the conversation and get on the same page.
Remember, this isn’t about winning an argument; it’s about getting both parents on the same team, fighting for your child's future, not with each other. Tune in and let's get you a united front.
Would you like to understand reports, ask the right questions, and get schools to take you seriously? Together Through Dyslexia 6-month program provides expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers, and you can claim your spot now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/together-through-dyslexia!
My mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
The ways in which reading instruction has changed over the past 20 to 30 years, and why this means that old methods just don't work anymore [1:53]
How your child is developing a story about themselves based on their struggles and the feelings this can lead to [2:08]
The Matthew Effect explained: why children who fall behind in reading tend to fall even further behind over time [2:30]
Specific questions to ask your child about how they perceive reading to shift the conversation from a problem to a deeper understanding of their unique brain [3:22]
Why allowing children to articulate their experience in their own words can be such a powerful tool [4:18]
A look at the framework for approaching a resistant partner using a strategic approach that moves from emotion to curiosity, and from confrontation to collaboration [4:34]

Key Takeaways
Waiting until the end of third grade to address reading difficulties can be highly detrimental.
Shifting the conversation from arguing about a "problem" to being curious about your child's experience can be a game-changer.
A reminder that the goal isn't to win an argument, but to create a united front.

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Claim your spot now to Together Through Dyslexia, my 6-month program providing expert mentorship for parents of dyslexics and struggling readers!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.
...more
7min
August 15, 2025#60 Summer Rewind Series: Are We There Yet - How Long Does A Dyslexia Remediation Really Take?
Summer has arrived, and I’m taking a moment to look back at some of the most impactful episodes to date! I know this season brings a mix of relaxation and planning, especially for families navigating dyslexia. That's why I wanted to bring you our "Summer Rewind" series, a curated selection of previously aired episodes packed with valuable insights, practical strategies, and empowering advice to help you support your child's literacy journey through the warmer months and beyond. This episode, Are We There Yet - How Long Does A Dyslexia Remediation Really Take?, originally aired back in December of 2022, and I hope you enjoy listening to it again (or for the first time)!
In this episode, I explore the different factors that go into your child’s success with an interventionist. Your child’s age, individual needs, and the intensity of their instruction all play major roles in their ability to make meaningful progress.
My go-to answer when parents ask how long dyslexia remediation takes is that this process is a marathon, not a sprint. You should anticipate challenges and celebrate milestones along the way.
Listen in to learn more about what to expect when it comes to predicting and tracking your child’s progress!
My Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP course walks you through every step of the identification and support process. I offer two options: the course itself, which gives you all the tools and templates you need to advocate for your child, or the course paired with a comprehensive literacy evaluation. Either way, you'll have a roadmap to follow instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, and you can learn more and apply now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/continuethejourney!
My brand-new mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
Why there's no quick fix for dyslexia remediation and you have to beware of promises for rapid-level grade jumps [1:00]
The key factors influencing dyslexia remediation and the reasons that it's such a complex equation [1:43]
How the intensity of specialized instruction significantly impacts progress [2:49]
The "Matthew Effect" in reading and how the longer you wait for dyslexia intervention, the harder it becomes for your child to catch up [3:51]
Why dyslexia instruction progresses a multi-year journey beyond the foundational skills [5:25]

Key Takeaways
Dyslexia remediation is a highly individualized and long-term process and there's no one-size-fits-all timeline.
Early and consistent specialized instruction is crucial for managing dyslexia.
Dyslexia intervention is comprehensive and it extends beyond just basic phonics.

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
...more
7min
August 01, 2025#59 Summer Rewind Series: Prepping Your Dyslexic Child for the New School Year: 8 Steps to a Smooth Start
Summer has arrived, and I’m taking a moment to look back at some of the most impactful episodes to date! I know this season brings a mix of relaxation and planning, especially for families navigating dyslexia. That's why I wanted to bring you our "Summer Rewind" series, a curated selection of previously aired episodes packed with valuable insights, practical strategies, and empowering advice to help you support your child's literacy journey through the warmer months and beyond. This episode, Prepping Your Dyslexic Child for the New School Year: 8 Steps to a Smooth Start, originally aired in August of 2023, and I hope you enjoy listening to it again (or for the first time)!
In this episode, I explore eight tools that help students build their confidence and self-advocacy skills. I share ways to collaborate on goal-setting and building effective habits that help students address any challenges they may have experienced in previous years. Plus, I highlight my top tip for all parents who are preparing for a new school year – it’s simple, but very effective!
My Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP course walks you through every step of the identification and support process. I offer two options: the course itself, which gives you all the tools and templates you need to advocate for your child, or the course paired with a comprehensive literacy evaluation. Either way, you'll have a roadmap to follow instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, and you can learn more and apply now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/continuethejourney!
My brand-new mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
Why reviewing their IEP or 504 accommodations is crucial for building self-confidence and vital self-advocacy skills for the classroom [2:42]
Unlocking the power of assistive technology through readily available tools often built into everyday apps your child already uses [3:06]
How involving your child in setting realistic academic and personal goals gives them ownership and drives their success throughout the year [4:01]
What you can do to help your child master the homework battle by implementing a consistent routine in this area [4:29]
Practical organization strategies that will help your child immensely throughout the entire school year [5:03]
How you, as the parent, hold the key to their success as the ultimate support system [5:48]

Key Takeaways
Parents can significantly reduce back-to-school stress for dyslexic students by proactively implementing an 8-step plan that covers everything from reviewing past performance to exploring assistive technologies.

Fostering a dyslexic child's self-confidence and self-advocacy skills is paramount, and can be achieved through open discussions about their IEP/504 accommodations and actively involving them in goal-setting and routine development.

Consistent routines, practical organizational strategies, and unwavering emotional support are crucial elements that empower dyslexic students to manage their time, reduce anxiety, and thrive academically and personally throughout the school year.

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
...more
8min
July 18, 2025#58 Summer Rewind Series: 7 Ways to Help the Dyslexic in Your Life Find and Give Themselves Grace
Summer has arrived, and I’m taking a moment to look back at some of the most impactful episodes to date! I know this season brings a mix of relaxation and planning, especially for families navigating dyslexia. That's why I wanted to bring you our "Summer Rewind" series, a curated selection of previously aired episodes packed with valuable insights, practical strategies, and empowering advice to help you support your child's literacy journey through the warmer months and beyond. This episode, 7 Ways to Help the Dyslexic in Your Life Find and Give Themselves Grace, originally aired in March of 2024, and I hope you enjoy listening to it again (or for the first time)!
We’ve all heard that pesky little voice in our heads say something like, “Well, you should’ve done XYZ, but you didn’t.” Many dyslexics experience negative self-talk. I know I have! Reminding ourselves to be graceful in these moments, while sometimes easier said than done, is the only way through it. Today, I’m sharing 7 ways that you can help the dyslexic in your life give themselves grace.
My Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP course walks you through every step of the identification and support process. I offer two options: the course itself, which gives you all the tools and templates you need to advocate for your child, or the course paired with a comprehensive literacy evaluation. Either way, you'll have a roadmap to follow instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, and you can learn more and apply now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/continuethejourney!
My brand-new mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
Why giving yourself grace is crucial, especially for neurodivergent individuals [1:32]
The key reasons that educating your child about dyslexia is the first and most important step [2:32]
How parents can celebrate their child's unique talents and find activities where they truly shine, fostering confidence beyond academic challenges [4:12]
Normalizing mistakes as a valuable perspective for both students and parents on embracing errors for growth [5:32]

Key Takeaways
It is crucial for both adults and dyslexic children to practice self-compassion and give themselves grace, understanding that struggles and mistakes are a normal part of life and learning.
Educating dyslexic children about their unique way of thinking, focusing on their strengths, and normalizing mistakes are fundamental steps in empowering them and building their self-esteem.
Parents and educators can significantly support dyslexic individuals by maintaining open communication, setting realistic expectations, and praising effort over just results.

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.
Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
...more
8min
July 04, 2025#57 Summer Rewind Series: 5 Unexpected Ways Dyslexia Affects Everyday Life
Summer has arrived, and I’m taking a moment to look back at some of the most impactful episodes to date! I know this season brings a mix of relaxation and planning, especially for families navigating dyslexia. That's why I wanted to bring you our "Summer Rewind" series, a curated selection of previously aired episodes packed with valuable insights, practical strategies, and empowering advice to help you support your child's literacy journey through the warmer months and beyond. This episode, 5 Unexpected Ways Dyslexia Affects Everyday Life, originally aired in May of 2024, and I hope you enjoy listening to it again (or for the first time)!
When people talk about dyslexia and how it affects people, the focus is almost always on improving a child’s learning environment. They rarely talk about how the effects show up in everyday life, and in this episode, I look at five unexpected areas in which dyslexia impacts people.
My Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP course walks you through every step of the identification and support process. I offer two options: the course itself, which gives you all the tools and templates you need to advocate for your child, or the course paired with a comprehensive literacy evaluation. Either way, you'll have a roadmap to follow instead of trying to figure everything out on your own, and you can learn more and apply now at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/continuethejourney!
My brand-new mini-course, From Lost to Empowered: How to Get Your Struggling Reader: The 3-Step Evaluation Request Blueprint for Parents of Struggling Readers, is available now! This 3-step evaluation request blueprint walks you through everything you need to know, from documenting concerns with the right details to writing the evaluation request letter with language that triggers legal timelines, to handling what to do when schools try to push you off, and so much more. You can break through the barriers NOW and get instant access at https://www.literacyuntangled.com/from-lost-to-empowered.
Topics Covered:
Why navigating airports, reading maps, and managing travel documents can be a significant hurdle for individuals with dyslexia [1:33]
How the unique executive function demands and road sign challenges that make driving a complex task for many with dyslexia [3:44]
Ways that dyslexia affects navigation on the water and the surprising complexities of interpreting nautical charts and symbols [5:10]
Why reading recipes, managing steps, and ensuring proper cooking times can be a real struggle in the kitchen for dyslexic individuals [5:31]
Some of the significant processing challenges that are being created by the increased use of subtitles in modern media [6:12]

Key Takeaways
Dyslexia's impact extends far beyond academic settings, profoundly affecting seemingly ordinary daily activities.
Individuals with dyslexia often face significant challenges with tasks requiring simultaneous processing of visual and auditory information, quick reading of complex text, and intricate organizational skills.
Understanding these less-talked-about challenges of dyslexia in everyday life can foster greater empathy and provide insights into developing more effective support strategies.

When you're ready to work with me, here are 3 ways I can help you:
Join the waitlist to find out when my long-awaited course, Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEP, opens up again!
Subscribe to my Podcast Literacy Untangled Podcast for bimonthly episodes on navigating the dyslexia journey with your kid.
Want 1:1 help from an Orton-Gillingham expert? Book a call to see how I help kids who are struggling to learn how to read.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send an email to [email protected] or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic children and get this content in the hands of those who need it most. Click the share button and send away! Thank you.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or on your favorite podcast platform.
Connect:
- Visit my website
- Sign up for my newsletter
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join me on Facebook
...more
9min

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FAQs about Literacy Untangled Podcast:

How many episodes does Literacy Untangled Podcast have?

Literacy Untangled Podcast episodes:

FAQs about Literacy Untangled Podcast:

How many episodes does Literacy Untangled Podcast have?

More shows like Literacy Untangled Podcast

Melissa & Lori Love Literacy ®

Science of Reading: The Podcast

Literacy Talks

The Tucker Carlson Show