Shows
Literacy Untangled Podcast#58 Summer Rewind Series: 7 Ways to Help the Dyslexic in Your Life Find and Give Themselves GraceSummer 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...2025-07-1807 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#57 Summer Rewind Series: 5 Unexpected Ways Dyslexia Affects Everyday LifeSummer 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 ag...2025-07-0408 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#56 Summer Rewind Series: Traveling with a Dyslexic ChildAs summer approaches, 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, Traveling with a Dyslexic Child, originally aired in July of 2023, and I hope you enjoy listening to it again (or fo...2025-06-2008 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#55 Summer Rewind Series: Dyslexia and Summer Therapy - Yes or No?As summer approaches, 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, Dyslexia and Summer Therapy - Yes or No?, originally aired in May of 2023, and I hope you enjoy listening to it ag...2025-06-0606 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#54 Hiding in Plain Sight: How Gifted Kids Mask Their Dyslexia and What Parents Must KnowHave you ever wondered why your incredibly bright child, the one with the astonishing vocabulary and mind-bending problem-solving skills, struggles so much with reading and writing? If so, this episode will be an eye-opener as I share what you need to know about spotting dyslexia in gifted kids and what you need to do moving forward.
I realize this process can be tricky as these kids can be absolute masters of compensation, but if you suspect your exceptional child is working twice as hard for seemingly modest results in literacy, then this episode is a must-listen.
...2025-05-2308 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#53 Beat the September Rush: Why Smart Parents Start the Dyslexia Process Now, Not Next FallFeeling overwhelmed by the end of the school year? Think your child's learning struggles can wait until September? Today, I want to talk about why waiting until September could be one of the biggest mistakes that you make for your struggling reader, and give you the confidence to take the critical steps that need to be taken right now.
Don't let the summer lull you into a potentially detrimental delay! This episode will show you how to be a proactive advocate and set your child up for success before the new school year even begins.
M...2025-05-0911 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#52 Beyond Smores: Finding the Summer Program Your Dyslexic Child Actually NeedsStruggling to figure out the best summer plans for your dyslexic child? Are you torn between the need for academic support to prevent summer slide and the desire for your child to have a fun, relaxing break? What if I told you that you could find a way to do both?
This week, we dive deep into the world of summer options for dyslexic learners, exploring everything from specialized academic programs and supportive traditional camps to the power of individual tutoring and passion-based special interest camps. I’ll help you navigate the overwhelming choices and uncover what trul...2025-04-2511 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#51 The Middle School Minefield: Why Your Dyslexic Child’s IEP Is About to Become ObsoleteIs your child moving from elementary to middle school?
Is the thought of middle school sending shivers down your spine, especially for your dyslexic child?
Are you wondering how they'll navigate the maze of multiple teachers, lockers, and skyrocketing academic demands, or what I like to refer to as “The Middle School Minefield?
If you're grappling with these questions, you're not alone, and I want to help you navigate it confidently.
In this episode, I reveal why this transition is so critical for dyslexic students and I share what you should be thi...2025-04-1111 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#50 Spring Testing Season: How to Help Your Dyslexic Child Manage TestsIs Spring testing season a source of dread for you and your dyslexic child? Do standardized tests feel like they’re designed to highlight their challenges, not their strengths? Today is all about how to help your kids navigate test anxiety during Spring testing season, to avoid the “perfect storm” that these tests often create.
In this episode, I share practical steps you can take right away that will help move beyond cramming to using effective, multi-sensory study strategies, tips for creating a calm morning routine the day of the test and how they can manage their time e...2025-03-2809 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#49 Beyond High School: Preparing Your Dyslexic Student for College SuccessAre you currently navigating the daunting leap from high school to college with a dyslexic student, or looking ahead to prepare for this important transition? Today, I unravel the complexities of college accommodations and reveal how you can ensure your child's documentation meets stringent college standards.
In this episode, you’ll also hear about the shift in the legal requirements from high school to college, and we explore why self-advocacy becomes paramount, plus I share how to cultivate this crucial skill before your child steps onto campus.
After listening, you’ll discover the essential timing for co...2025-03-1411 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#48 The Unexpected Helper: How Equine Therapy Benefits Dyslexic StudentsEver wondered if the key to unlocking your dyslexic child's potential lies beyond the classroom? Could the rhythmic gait of a horse hold the secret to improved reading and writing skills? Today’s episode is a look at the fascinating world of equine therapy, exploring how it can complement traditional literacy instruction.
As you’ll hear, working with horses can complement traditional reading intervention and support your dyslexic child’s overall development, so join me as we examine this unexpected path to literacy success!
Here are some helpful links to the resources mentioned in this episode...2025-02-2807 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#47 The Parent-Teacher Partnership: Building Effective Communication ChannelsEver feel like you're speaking a different language than your child's teacher? Do miscommunications leave you frustrated and your child's needs unmet? Today, I dive into the crucial art of building strong communication channels with your child's school team.
In this episode, I explore why clear communication is absolutely essential for your child's success and how it can prevent misunderstandings before they escalate. Plus, I give practical strategies and tools you can begin using right now to build the parent-teacher partnership.
If you’re ready to unlock the secrets of effective parent-teacher communication and become a m...2025-02-1405 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#46 After the IEP: Your 30-Day Action Plan for Implementation SuccessLast week I covered a 6-week IEP preparation timeline for success, but what happens next when your IEP meeting is over? What if there was a concrete action plan to ensure these vital supports actually happen? In this episode, I break down the critical steps to take in the first 30 days after your IEP meeting.
If you are ready to take control of your child's education and ensure their IEP is truly effective, then the 30-day action plan that I share today will provide you with the knowledge and confidence you need to make it happen!
2025-01-2407 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#45 New Year, New IEP: Your 6-Week Preparation Timeline for SuccessIEP season is upon us, and I realize that there’s so much to prepare during this time. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and not even sure where to start, then this episode is for you. Today, I look at what you’ll need in order to be ready, and I break it all down week-by-week over a 6-week timeline so you know exactly what to focus on at each specific point of the process.
Before we dive in, I want to make sure you know about our IEP snapshot and 12 Questions to Ask at your IEP Meetin...2025-01-1009 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#44 The Power of Pause: Why Breaking from Intervention Can HelpIn this episode, I explore the often-overlooked benefits of taking strategic breaks from dyslexia intervention and therapy. Drawing from personal experience with a recent podcast break, I talk about how intentional pauses can lead to better outcomes and renewed motivation.
Topics Covered:
- Signs it might be time for an intervention break
- How to take a mindful, productive break
- The science behind learning consolidation
- Real-world examples of successful intervention breaks
- Strategies for maintaining skills during pauses
- Managing parent con...2024-12-1707 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#43 8 Key Areas That Need to be Assessed for a Comprehensive Special Education EvaluationIt’s so important that your child receives a comprehensive special education evaluation, but what does that really mean? To help you get a better understanding, I’ve divided the evaluations down into 8 key areas for a better understanding.
The data from these evaluations is used in the written report component, which could be conducted by specialists in different areas. The specialist reports are then combined to make up the full evaluation. In this episode, I discuss the 8 key areas as follows:
Review of medical, physical, and educational records as well as family history, including hearing, sight...2024-09-2108 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#43 8 Key Areas That Need to be Assessed for Comprehensive Special Education EvaluationIt’s so important that your child receives a comprehensive special education evaluation, but what does that really mean? To help you get a better understanding, I’ve divided the evaluations down into 8 key areas for a better understanding.
The data from these evaluations is used in the written report component, which could be conducted by specialists in different areas. The specialist reports are then combined to make up the full evaluation. In this episode, I discuss the 8 key areas as follows:
Review of medical, physical, and educational records as well as family history, including hearing, sight...2024-09-2108 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#42 The Social-Emotional Effects of DyslexiaDyslexic children often struggle with the social impact of their learning difficulties. In this episode, I discuss the social-emotional effects of dyslexia, how they can impact your child socially, and ways to support the dyslexics in your life through these times.
After a dyslexic child receives the instructional and academic help they need, the social-emotional side effects often linger. Some of the effects dyslexia could have on your child include low self-esteem, anxiety, stress, frustration, anger, or depression. Often, once a child realizes they learn differently than the rest of their class, low self-esteem may kick in...2024-08-1606 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#41 {Guest Spotlight} In the Middle with Sara Smith: Being Dyslexic and Having a Dyslexic Dad and SonDyslexia and ADHD run in my family. In this episode, I speak with my sister, Sara Smith, about her personal experiences and insights on dyslexia, the challenges and opportunities present in everyday life, and the effort required to maintain her coping skills.
Sara not only has dyslexia but is also the mother of a dyslexic son and the daughter of a dyslexic father. She speaks about the challenges she faces as a person with dyslexia and in caring for her son, Cooper. Learning not to compare herself to others when it comes to learning a new skill, f...2024-06-2825 minLiteracy Untangled Podcast#40 {Guest Spotlight} Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the International Dyslexia Association with Jessica HammanIn celebration of the International Dyslexia Association’s (IDA) 75th anniversary, the IDA is dedicating the recent issue of its journal, Perspectives, to structured literacy. In this episode, I speak with Jessica Hamman, the CEO of Glean Education, who authored two articles for the issue and co-edited it alongside Barbara Wilson.
Jessica shares her path to dyslexia advocacy. Her parents were always involved in advocacy, and her father was even on the committee that created the definition of dyslexia that is now used in 45 states! As she went through the process of her own son being diagnosed with...2024-06-1434 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#39 5 Unexpected Ways Dyslexia Affects Everyday LifeWhen 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. In this episode, I look at five unexpected areas in which dyslexia impacts people.
Travel: difficulties include maps, signs, timetables, announcements, managing travel documents, booking, and planning
Driving: difficulties include passing the written exam, reading road signs, multitasking, and spatial awareness
Boating: difficulties include interpreting charts, navigating coordinates, and reading markers
Cooking: difficulties include following a recipe, time management, seasoning, and imp...2024-05-2408 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#38 How Can I Help My Dyslexic Child Meet the School’s Foreign Language Requirement?Foreign language requirements can be incredibly frustrating for dyslexic students, especially after already spending so long to manage reading and writing in their own language. In this episode, I discuss possibilities for optimally navigating this requirement for dyslexic students.
Dyslexics can absolutely learn a foreign language, but they will encounter the same issues they have in their own language. To help simplify the learning process for your child, ensure they receive the appropriate accommodations in class and are being delivered in all settings. Depending on what languages your school offers, I love to recommend American sign language. In...2024-05-1005 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#37 Can My Dyslexic Child Really Get Multisensory Instruction Online?
Some things aren’t as good online as they are “in real life,” but multisensory learning isn’t one of them! In this episode, I share how multisensory learning instruction can be carried out effectively online, specific tools to use, and examples of this in practice.
When I first began my training, I thought multisensory instruction could only be done in person. Fast forward to now, I fully provide this service online! Multisensory instruction simultaneously ties in visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile instruction, also known as VAKT, so that a student uses all the pathways of the bra...2024-04-1206 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#36 Do I Really Have to Teach My Dyslexic Child Grammar and Punctuation?The difference between “Let’s eat, Grandma” and “Let’s eat Grandma” is substantial! Grammar and punctuation provide clarity and understanding that, without them, make language hard to understand. Today, I’m discussing the importance of teaching dyslexic children grammar and punctuation and three tips for helping your child learn these nuances.
All aspects of language, reading, writing, and speaking, are connected with each other in a symbiotic and circular relationship. If we leave out educating our children about grammar, they miss out on a very important part of communication. I go into the million-dollar mistake Lockhee...2024-03-2905 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#35 7 Ways to Help the Dyslexic in Your Life Find and Give Themselves GraceWe’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.
Educate your child on dyslexia and reinforce that their intelligence is not defined by it.
Keep the lines of communication open. Encourage them to share their struggles and feelings and r...2024-03-0107 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#34 How to Help Your Dyslexic Child Find Their PassionIf you do a quick Google search, you'll find so many examples of successful adults with dyslexia who have found their passion and are thriving. Some of the famous personalities include director Steven Spielberg, actor Keira Knightley, basketball player Magic Johnson, and author Agatha Christie. In this episode, you'll hear practical advice and strategies for helping your child with dyslexia find their calling.
As a parent, you can help your child find their passion by encouraging them to explore various activities and interests to identify and nurture their strengths. Creating a positive learning environment at home and in...2024-02-0904 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#33 What Does a Typical IEP Agenda Look Like?IEP season is here and many of us are getting ready to attend our (first) IEP meetings. If you’re a parent of a dyslexic student, you may be curious about what to expect. In this episode, I break down the IEP agenda process and share what to expect before and during an IEP meeting.
IEP stands for Individualized Education Program — a personalized learning plan for a child with a qualifying disability. The IEP outlines present levels, goals, services, and accommodations a child will receive in a given calendar year. The IEP agenda typically looks like this:
2024-01-2607 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#32 Are Audiobooks Cheating?Are audiobooks and immersion readers just a new way to cheat? The short answer is no. In this episode, I share information on audiobooks and immersion readers, and the positive impact they can have on reading difficulties for dyslexic students.
Research shows that using audiobooks and immersion readers (also called ear readers) can only help increase your child’s reading skills. Reading difficulties can lead to anxiety, specifically for students with dyslexia. Audiobooks can alleviate this anxiety by providing an alternative way of accessing information and contributing to the development of vocabulary and pronunciation. Since stud...2024-01-0506 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#31 What are the 3 Tiers of RtI and Where Does Dyslexia Intervention Fit In?I recently had a parent contact me who was confused about RtI Tier 2 language used in a meeting. (And rightfully so!) It’s not uncommon to feel like your head is spinning after an education meeting where different acronyms are thrown around. This is what I refer to as “edu speak.” In this episode, I detail the three tiers of RtI and explain how dyslexia intervention fits into the process.
RtI stands for Response to Intervention. It is the first step toward receiving Special Education services in reading, and should only last 8–12 weeks. The RtI framework consists of three...2023-12-2208 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#30 My Why - Discovering Dyslexia: A 5-Day Exploration and Untangling Dyslexia: From Identification to IEPDecember is traditionally known as a month of joy and celebration — ‘tis the season! Join me as I open the doors to my WHY and celebrate the launch of two courses to support the Untangling Literacy community: Discovering Dyslexia and Untangling Dyslexia.
My dad, a dyslexic and driving force and inspiration for Literacy Untangled, always asks me how I can help more people. So, I’ve come up with two solutions to the questions I am asked the most: “Could my child be dyslexic?” And, “How do I get my child identified with dyslexia and manage the IEP process?”...2023-12-0805 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#29 Debunking the Top 10 Dyslexia Myths (Part 2)Continuing with our series on dyslexia myths, I’m debunking the top five things that people get wrong about dyslexia. Contrary to popular belief, people with dyslexia don’t simply confuse numbers and letters. More than 80% of individuals with dyslexia struggle with organization, planning, prioritizing, punctuality, and staying focused. Even so, having dyslexia does not indicate someone’s ability to be successful or thrive in the right working environment.
There are so many harmful misconceptions about neurocognitive disorders, so tune in to learn more about separating fact from fiction when it comes to dyslexia.
Have a ques...2023-11-2205 min
The Teacher Biz Podcast20: From Stressed-Out Special Ed Teacher to Online Dyslexia Educator with Jennie SjursenJennie Sjursen is a former special education teacher who turned her passion for helping dyslexic students into a private dyslexia practice called Literacy Untangled. She is passionate about helping students with dyslexia and has extensive training in Orton-Gillingham.In this conversation, Jennie shares her journey from being a stressed-out teacher to starting her own online business. By leveraging her expertise, she has been able to reach more students and make a difference in their lives. She discusses the challenges she faced in building Literacy Untangled and her plans to scale her business by creating...2023-10-2425 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#28 Debunking the Top 10 Dyslexia Myths (Part 1)If you are unsure about what to believe about dyslexia and are looking for factual information, this episode is for you.
In honor of Dyslexia Awareness Month, this is the first part in a two-part series debunking the top 10 dyslexia myths. In this episode, we cover dyslexia myth #10–6. I provide facts, action steps, and situational examples in response to the first five dyslexia myths. Let’s get started.
Have a question or want a certain topic covered? Send us an email or a DM on Instagram.
I want to support parents with dyslexic childre...2023-10-1307 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#27 The Magic of Child Find - What Is It and Why Is It Important?If you’ve tried to get your child tested for dyslexia, but ran into barriers because they don’t attend public school, this episode is for you.
Child Find is a resource that’s part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA). It requires each state to develop a statewide system for identifying, locating, and evaluating all children from birth to 21 years old who are in need of special education and related services. In this episode, I explore how Child Find works and who it serves. I also share tips about the application process...2023-09-2205 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#26 6 Steps for Setting Up an Effective Homework RoutineEven though I don’t believe in (most) homework assignments, it’s a staple in traditional school systems that isn't going away anytime soon. However, there are strategies to make it less overwhelming for students and parents.
Expanding on step 6 of my “8 Steps for Starting the School Year on the Right Foot” guide, this episode is all about how to create an effective homework routine for students with learning differences. I share what to keep in mind when setting up a child’s dedicated workspace and creating parameters around their schedule. I also break down the ‘10 Minute Rule’ that mos...2023-09-0109 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#25 Prepping Your Dyslexic Child for the New School Year: 8 Steps to a Smooth StartMany students with dyslexia experience an added layer of anxiety as they anticipate the start of a new school year. Between different routines, coursework, and teachers, it’s common for dyslexic students to feel overwhelmed when the summer starts to wind down. Because of that, I’ve created an eight step plan to set students and parents up for success during the new school year.
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 chal...2023-08-1807 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#24 Traveling with a Dyslexic ChildTraveling with a dyslexic child has its own unique set of challenges. You may have found it difficult to navigate these challenges and find ways to create an easier future travel experience. In this episode, I’m sharing some of the challenges that may arise, like managing public transportation, timetables, time management, and organizational skills. I’m also providing tips to help set your child up for success, both about where they’re traveling to, and why they’re traveling to a specific place.
I explain how dyslexia can create challenges within travel, including misreading signage, hard to read in...2023-07-2808 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#23 Phonological Awareness, Phonemic Awareness, Phonics: A Nesting Doll TrifectaWherever you are on your journey with dyslexia, you may have come across terms like phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, and phonics. In this episode, I’m breaking down the skills within each term, and how each concept relates to an overall understanding of language in relation to dyslexia.
Phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, and phonics are similar to nesting dolls — one nests inside the other to create a larger whole. This looks like:
The smallest doll = Phonemic Awareness: The smallest unit of sound, and the most advanced stage within phonological awareness.
The mid-sized doll = Phonological Awareness: Oral languag...2023-07-1408 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#22 Writing Instruction - The Final FrontierI recently took a 3-day Writing Revolution training course, and in this episode, I’m sharing key takeaways and unpacking how this methodology can be applied to writing instruction for students with (and without) dyslexia.
When I discovered that 75% of third and fourth grade teachers don't feel prepared to teach writing, I can’t say I was surprised. In my teaching program, we mainly focused on reading comprehension, not the foundations of reading or writing. As a result, the majority of teachers lack a structured, systematic, and explicit approach to teaching writing. That’s where The Writing Revolut...2023-06-2310 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#21 A 504 Plan vs An IEP - What's The Difference?The 504 Plan and the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) were both created under federal laws and provide accommodations and support to students with disabilities at no cost to the family. They share the same end goal, but they differ in the level of intervention and individualization offered.
The purpose of a 504 Plan is to provide a blueprint for how the school will provide accommodations and supports to remove barriers for the student. An IEP takes it a step further and provides a specific individualized education plan the school will follow to meet the student's specific educational needs. In t...2023-06-0910 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#20 Dyslexia and Summer Therapy - Yes or No?Research has shown that many children, especially dyslexic children, will lose reading skills over the summer without some support. If your child has been working hard with a dyslexia therapist after school all year and is doing really well, you need to think about what the fall will look like for your child based on the decisions you make for them in the summer.
In this episode, I outline some options that make it possible for you to balance your child’s summer. There are many ways to make this work for you, your family, and...2023-05-2606 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#19. Dysgraphia - The Forgotten 'Dys'It's estimated that up to 33% of the population has an issue with handwriting. This can often be a case of dysgraphia, which many students with dyslexia also have, and is often overlooked.
Dysgraphia is more than a challenge with fine motor skills when writing. It can also be a deficit in written expression, writing mechanics, and the ability to organize thoughts and write cohesive paragraphs. Depending on the type of dysgraphia, students may have illegible handwriting and poor language skills, yet they have great copy skills, work well from visual cues and tell oral stories in explicit...2023-05-1011 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#18 Grade Retention - Yes or No?While retention can happen anytime during your child's school year, it usually happens at the end of the third grade. The reason? Many states have legislation that requires schools to consider retaining a student if they don't pass a third-grade reading assessment. The really frustrating thing about these policies is that one test score doesn't demonstrate your child's overall ability to show their knowledge. It also doesn’t recognize that dyslexia is a lifelong diagnosis, not something fixed within a year.
Research done in the early 2000s found that retaining a student did not benefit them, and in...2023-04-2108 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#17 Mandatory Standardized Testing and Dyslexia - 7 Strategies for Making It ThroughFor most students, standardized testing means disrupted schedules, increased anxiety, and the pressure to perform. For a student with dyslexia or a neurodivergent brain, that experience is often amplified. In this episode, I expand on why these standardized tests exist and how to support your child through the process.
Your child’s standardized test score tells you where they fall on a bell curve in relation to the other students in their grade. Because people with dyslexia process information differently, standardized tests aren’t an effective way to assess their development or comprehension. If your state doesn’t offer...2023-04-0509 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#16 Multisensory Instruction: What is it?Multisensory instruction is often listed as a key component in many reading approaches and curriculums. In this episode, we are diving into what multisensory techniques are and how they can be helpful for a dyslexic student learning to read.
We can’t talk about multisensory instruction without looking back on the influential work of educational psychologist Grace Fernald. In the 1920s, she introduced techniques like skywriting and tactile spelling into her approach to reading instruction. This approach is now known as The Fernald Method.
Dr. Orton-Gillignham and Anna Gillingham incorporated this metho...2023-03-2207 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#15 Print-to-Speech or Speech-to-Print?There is a debate in the Structured Literacy world about whether Print-to-speech or Speech-to-print is the more effective approach. Both approaches rely on phonics - matching sounds to their corresponding letter/letter patterns. They differ in that Print-to-speech starts with a letter/letter pattern and matches it to an oral sound. Speech-to-print uses the student's prior oral language skills and works to match the speech sounds to the letter/letter patterns.
Which is the better overall approach? In this episode, I discuss the differences and similarities in more detail and highlight why both approaches are ne...2023-03-0807 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#14 What is the OG Approach and Guiding Principles?The Orton-Gillingham (OG) Approach is known as the "Gold Standard" for teaching dyslexics how to read and write. Neuropsychiatrist Dr. Samuel Orton and gifted educator and psychologist, Anna Gillingham, developed a multi-sensory approach to improve reading and writing skills in children with dyslexia. They developed a set of key principles for practitioners to work from. Those guiding principles are: Diagnostic and Prescriptive; Individualized; Language-Based and Alphabetic/Phonetic; Simultaneous Multisensory; Direct and Explicit; Structured, Sequential, and Cumulative, but Flexible; Synthetic and Analytic; Cognitive; and Emotionally Sound.
An essential takeaway from this episode is Orton-Gillingham is an a...2023-02-2209 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#13 How the Brain Learns to ReadThe dyslexic brain and non-dyslexic brain are not the same. The dyslexic brain not only processes language differently, it's also structurally different. For instance, when it comes to reading and writing, dyslexic brains utilize both sides of their brain unlike non-dyslexic readers who only use the left side of their brain. Dyslexic brains are also structurally different; they have an extra layer of neurons called ectopias.
Reading is not a natural function of the brain. Unlike oral language, the brain has no dedicated area for reading, it needs to borrow from other areas. The area o...2023-02-0810 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#12 Should I Tell My Child They Have Dyslexia and How?Once you receive your child’s dyslexia diagnosis, you might feel lost about how to share the news with them. In my experience, one of the most supportive things that you can do is have a discussion about it and give an overview of what it means for them. You have an opportunity to reduce the shame and stigma that so many people with different learning abilities feel.
It’s also highly likely that your child will feel relieved to know that there are reasons why they struggle with certain tasks or subjects in school. I enco...2023-01-2507 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#11 Dyslexia, ADHD or Both?Dyslexia and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have a lot of overlap. It can be difficult to tell if your child is struggling because of dyslexia or ADHD. In this episode, I highlight the signs and symptoms of ADHD and look at the common threads and differences between the two disorders.
It's estimated that 30% of students with dyslexia also have ADHD, but there’s no evidence that one causes the other. I’ve seen first-hand how direct instruction and support of executive function skills is extremely valuable for students experiencing dyslexia, ADHD, or both. Listen in to lea...2023-01-1107 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#10 12 Questions to Ask at a Dyslexia IEP MeetingTraditionally, the majority of the annual IEP meetings take place between mid-January through mid-March. In this episode, I share 12 questions that you want to make sure you cover during these meetings and give examples of what good answers should include.
I explain what a multi-sensory, structured literacy approach is and why you want to ensure that your service provider is well-versed in that strategy. I highlight who should be providing reading services to your child and training credentials you want to look out for. I also describe when and where services should be delivered.
...2022-12-2807 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#9 Are We There Yet - How Long Does A Dyslexia Remediation Really Take?One of the most common questions I hear from parents after they hire a specialist is, how long will it take to get my child up to grade level? Unfortunately, it’s almost impossible to give a clear, guaranteed timeline of your child’s progress.
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 lon...2022-12-2106 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#8 Searching for a Unicorn - Finding an Appropriate Outside Service ProviderMany students with dyslexia can benefit from having extra support outside of their individualized learning plan. If you’re unhappy with the quality or quantity of services your child is receiving at school, it might be time to look into a private dyslexia instructor.
In this episode, I explain step-by-step how to connect with the right service provider for your child. I break down what you should look for in terms of credentials and share key questions to ask during a consultation.
I also talk about how professionals typically craft a well-r...2022-12-0708 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#7 After the Dyslexia Diagnosis: Setting Up the IEP and Making Educational DecisionsIn this episode, we explore how your child's evaluation informs the structure of their Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the educational decisions you make for them. I explain the two requirements that must be met for your child to qualify for an IEP, share examples of learning goals and services, and highlight some red flags that you should look out for during these conversations.
After it’s determined that your child has a Specific Learning Disability (SLD), the first decision that needs to be made is whether your child qualifies for a 504 or an IEP. I ge...2022-11-0910 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#6 Understanding the Different Types of DyslexiaOne of the most common misconceptions about dyslexia is that everyone who is diagnosed with it experiences the same challenges. Because dyslexia is a spectrum disorder, no two dyslexics are exactly the same. On today’s episode, I break down the three main types of dyslexia, what characterizes them, and why it’s so important to understand what type of dyslexia your child has.
The three types of dyslexia are Phonological, Rapid Automatic Naming (RAN), and Double Deficit. These are the umbrella terms that pinpoint exactly what a dyslexic struggles with. The severity is characterized as mil...2022-10-2607 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#5 {Guest Spotlight} 80 Years of Living with Dyslexia: the ups and downs with Arne SjursenOctober is Dyslexia Awareness Month, and I’m celebrating by highlighting the successful dyslexics in my life and those around us. One of the biggest inspirations behind my career and this podcast has been my dad, Arne Sjursen. He was diagnosed with dyslexia almost two decades ago at the age of 42 and describes the mix of emotions that he felt when he found out.
My dad was a student in New York City in the 1940s and 1950s. Back then, there was a lack of compassion and understanding of different learning abilities. He was often for...2022-10-1220 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#4 Dyslexia Diagnosis Evaulations - What should they include?Dyslexia diagnostic evaluations are individually administered and look specifically for your child's strengths and weaknesses, and how greatly their skills differ from their peers. On today’s episode, I break down exactly what a good evaluation should include, the difference between a screening and diagnostic evaluation, and what skills the assessments look at. I also explain the information that you need to provide for your child’s evaluation, including any previous interventions and family history, as well as the sub-tests that should be included in the evaluation.
Listen to the episode on Spotify, Stitcher, or on you...2022-09-2810 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#2 Signs of DyslexiaAccording to the National Institute of Health, dyslexia can be identified with 92% accuracy by the age of five and a half. In today’s episode, I dive into some of the common signs of dyslexia and what it may look like in your child at different development stages. I talk about the warning signs to look out for in preschool and kindergarten-aged children and how those challenges affect students as they continue on to elementary and middle school. I also touch on the consequences of little-to-no effective interventions.
Listen to the episode on Spotify, Stitcher, or o...2022-09-1405 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#3 How to Get Your Child Evaluated and IdentifiedWe’ve established what dyslexia is and how to spot it in your child, so what’s the next step? On today’s episode, I walk you through how to get your child assessed and identified as dyslexic. I explain who you should consult with, how to find the right neuropsychologist for your family, and the two paths you can take to get your child evaluated. I break down the pros and cons of both the public and private options, and I lay out what to do once you have the full evaluation report.
Listen to the e...2022-09-1409 min
Literacy Untangled Podcast#1 Dyslexia DefinedWelcome to the first episode of Literacy Untangled! Today, I’m breaking down the International Dyslexia Association’s definition of dyslexia and describing the outcomes of someone living with this neurological disability.
One in five people is diagnosed with dyslexia, but what does it actually mean? In short, it unexpectedly affects a person's ability to process written language and can lead to problems with reading comprehension, limited vocabulary, and limited background knowledge. Tune in to learn more about what dyslexia is and how it shows up in learning environments.
Listen to the epis...2022-09-1407 minLiteracy Untangled PodcastLiteracy Untangled - TrailerI think my child has dyslexia, where do I start? We just got the dyslexia diagnosis, what do we do next? These are some of the big questions that ex-special educator turned dyslexia interventionist, Jennie Sjursen, digs into on the Literacy Untangled Podcast. Jennie's specialties: breaking down the complexities of dyslexia into everyday language, strategies, and action steps. Think of this as your one-stop dyslexia shop. If it'll help you find a way to support your child through their dyslexia/neurodiverse journey, we'll dig into it! Let's get started!2022-07-1001 min
Twelve Minute Talks with Lorena TomasiniHelping Children With DyslexiaKnow a child with dyslexia? It can be hard going to school and feel like your falling behind. In this episode learn from Jennie Sjursen who works with children helping them learn in the best way for them. At Literacy Untangled, they help children and parents understand what's going on and help them succeed.
To learn more about our guest visit: https://www.literacyuntangled.com
I’m Lorena Tomasini, your host, and owner at MALM Life and Health Insurance Agency where we help families and business owners with their financial protection (life insurance and health insura...2020-07-3111 min