Dyslexia is a unique learning disorder that requires a personalized approach to treatment. While it is a neurological-based disorder, the treatment of dyslexia is educational in nature.
To be most effective, dyslexic learners should be taught using a highly structured and multisensory approach that engages all three senses – visual, auditory, and kinesthetic – and activates multiple areas of the brain simultaneously. This enhances the learning process and can be more effective for dyslexic individuals.
At the MSL Centre, we use the Orton-Gillingham Approach to treat dyslexia. This approach focuses on explicit teaching of sound-symbol correspondence, reading and spelling rules, syllabication patterns, reading comprehension, punctuation, grammar, vocabulary, and writing skills, including sentence structure and handwriting as needed. Our philosophy, in the words of Gillingham, is to “teach to the intellect” as quickly as possible, but as slowly as necessary for useful and stable learning.
It’s important to note that early intervention is highly desirable, but it is never too late to learn. Successful results have been achieved through intervention at any age, even in adults. With the right education and support, dyslexia need only be a temporary impediment.