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There is no question that the journey of raising a child with Dyslexia (or any of its siblings) should not be navigated alone.
The support I have received from various people over the years has been the greatest gift, and, let me be honest, it's kept me sane.
If you are a dyslexic Support Hero (a parent, grandparent, guardian, carer, teacher, therapist, friend, or just an all-around great person), this relates to you.
There's no denying it, regardless of whether you are only just starting out on this journey or you're a seasoned supporter, it's a rollercoaster, and I don't know about you, but I like to know there's a steady hand that I can grab next to me when the big dip appears before my eyes.
So many different types of support have become available to my son and I over the years. Each offering an additional layer, a different type of comfort or strategy for us to try.
If you are feeling alone, like few people understand or that you and your child don't have the right support - please know it doesn't have to be that way. The following list is some of the places I've found the best help and support.
Joining, following and getting involved with Dyslexic associations and groups such as; SPELD & Made by Dyslexia.
Social groups: be picky as some can be quite negative, but generally speaking, the Dyslexic groups on FB in each state are filled with incredible parents wanting to support each other.
My son's learning support educator in the early primary years was one of the most influential and supportive people for us both. She had taught children with learning differences for over twenty years, and her experience spoke volumes. She never failed to ease my anxiety, concerns and worry. Showing both of us nothing but compassion, and for that, I will be forever grateful.
After much research, we were fortunate to find a paediatric specialist with an extensive and optimistic understanding of the complexity and challenges faced with Dyslexia and ADHD. I personally found this relationship very empowering.
A parent a bit further along the journey than you. If you can foster a relationship where you share the ups and downs with someone who's been there and come out the other side, the relief will be immense.
A therapist. If you are open to therapy, talking about the challenges with a trained professional can be so beneficial for you and, by ripple effect, your child.
Speech therapists, OTs, and tutors are often excellent supports, particularly in the early years. We tried a few OT's, none that he particularly jelled well with, but his speech therapist, has been with him since the beginning. She's incredibly patient, knows when to push, and knows when to be soft. She has always worked to make sure lessons are fun and engaging for him and adapted to not only his learning style but his personal interests. There have been many Harry Potter and Pokemon themed sessions over the years.
Asking for help is not always easy. It can bring up our own limiting beliefs and fears. For me, it has definitely required some growth. I have had to learn to become vulnerable and honest with my fears, concerns and questions. At times, it was not easy as the wounded child in me believed she wasn't worthy of help. BUT, part of my healing was not just recognising that wasn't true but also not allowing the cycle to repeat and for it to become my son's story. So, I pushed myself out of my comfort zone to help and support him in a way I wasn't. What an incredible gift for us both.
So, I encourage you to ask for help, seek support, voice your concerns and keep speaking up until you get what you need.
You've got this.
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