THE SECRET LIFE OF THE DYSLEXIC CHILD: How She Thinks, How He Feels, How They Can Succeed

Frank, an educational psychologist who is himself dyslexic, has written an excellent guide, with the assistance of freelance writer Livingston, that will be of great help to parents of dyslexic children. MRI technology has revealed that this neurological disorder affects a part of the brain "that links the visual cortex and visual association area to the language areas." The authors explain that although dyslexics manifest their disability differently, depending on the severity of the condition, most dyslexic children have trouble with reading, writing, spelling and math in addition to understanding directions. Frank's own experience (he was not diagnosed until he was a graduate student) demonstrates that despite the lack of professional attention to his condition, the parental love and support he received encouraged him to transcend his problems with processing language. He provides here a number of strategies, such as language exercises for non-dyslexics, that will help parents to understand and identify with how their child sees the world. Building self-esteem is the key to helping a dyslexic child overcome overwhelming feelings of anxiety and frustration that may occur when he or she struggles with schoolwork. According to Frank, positive feedback from family and friends is crucial to building self-esteem in a dyslexic child. Included in this very helpful, accessibly written guide are many practical suggestions for working with your child's teacher to create a positive goal-oriented learning environment both at school and at home. (Oct.)