Dyslexia Information

Dyslexia Movie At Sundance Film Festival

2012-01-03T17:24:00.005-08:00

Directed by Jamie Redford (son of Robert Redford), with the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity, this brand-new movie was just accepted into the Sundance Film Festival.

Hopefully, local movie theaters across the country will be showing it within a few months.

OH Dyslexia Laws signed by Governor Kasich

2011-12-31T06:46:00.000-08:00

House Bills (HB) 96 and 157 were passed by the Ohio Senate with the concurrence of the Ohio House during a late-night, end-of-the-year Statehouse session on December 14; both bills were signed into law by Governor Kasich before Christmas.

HB 96 (Celeste - D & Brenner - R) has two components. The law will:

1) place the IDA definition of dyslexia directly into Ohio statute. Current Ohio law lists dyslexia as a specific learning disability, consistent with IDEA 2004, but does not provide a definition of dyslexia

2) begin a 3-year pilot program for the early identification and remediation of students at-risk for dyslexia and other phonologically based reading disorders.

HB 157 (Schuring - R & Letson - D) also has two components. The law will:

1) define a dyslexia specialist as someone who has achieved training consistent with the Level II IDA Knowledge and Practice Standards.

2) give Educational Service Centers (Ohio's statewide network of inservice training facilities) and other educational institutions permission to hire a dyslexia specialist to provide professional development in the area of dyslexia for Ohio teachers and administrators.

OH Legislature Passes Dyslexia House Bill 96!

2011-12-15T07:46:00.000-08:00

OH Legislature Passes Dyslexia House Bill 96!

House Bill 96 clarifies the definition of learning disabilities in the Ohio Revised Code to specifically include dyslexia.

House Bill 96 also creates a pilot project at the Ohio Department of Education including one urban, one suburban, and one rural school district to forge a partnership with the local library system to provide early screening and intervention services for children. Existing funds within the Ohio Department of Education will be used to pay for these screenings, and the inclusion of libraries will help ease the financial burden on school districts.

Next Steps:

House Bill 96 goes to OH Governor John Kasich for his signature.

Biology Of Language Study

2011-11-03T09:08:00.000-07:00

Nationwide Children's Hospital and the Ohio State University are working together on the Biology of Language Study that is looking at the way genes affect language skills.

They are seeking families where at least one family member shows a history of language or reading problems.

The study will not cost you anything. You will receive a $20 gift card for your completion of the enrollment interview and another for your child's completion of the eligibility testing. If your family is eligible for further assessment, each family member asked to complete testing will be paid $100 at the end of participation.

No travel time is necessary. All information can be taken over the phone.

For more information about the study or to inquire about enrollment, contact:

Drs. Chris Bartlett and Steve Petrill

bls@ehe.osu.edu

1-800-678-6494

website information:

http://bls.ehe.osu.edu/

OH Dept. of Ed. Rules Against Columbus School District for Non-compliance in the Area of Learning Disabilities

2011-10-02T16:58:00.000-07:00

Read the Ohio Department of Education's complaint findings against the Upper Arlington City School district (Columbus, OH).

ODE finds the Upper Arlington District negligent in:

Identifying students with Specific Learning Disability, including dyslexia, in a timely manner- causing students to be placed in ineffective programs for 2-4 years.

Providing interventions (especially in reading) that do not address or resolve the student's academic difficulties; consequently resulting in those students being denied timely evaluations.

Following written guidelines and procedures in identifying struggling students

The Upper Arlington School District agreed to provide teacher training on policy and procedures in identifying children with learning disabilities and to implement teacher in-services on such learning disabilities as dyslexia, ADHD, and dycalculia.

Dyslexia Independent of IQ

2011-09-27T17:53:00.000-07:00

According to MIT News Office:

IQ is not a good predictor or indicator of reading difficulties.

Brain-imaging study suggests that reading difficulties are the same regardless of overall intelligence — and that more children could benefit from support in school.

Building Phonemic Awareness in Young Children

2011-09-14T09:33:00.000-07:00

According to the National Reading Panel Report 2000, there are 7 essential phonemic awareness tasks that children must master to become proficient readers.

These phonemic awareness tasks include:

Count or say each sound

Add a sound

Delete a sound

Change a sound

Compare two words

Blend sounds into words

Create words that rhyme

Click here for ideas in fostering these essential building blocks to reading in

preschool and elementary aged children.

Common Myths About Dyslexia

2011-08-29T08:00:00.001-07:00

Read about 15 Common Myths of Dyslexia including:

1. Reversing letters is a definitive sign of dyslexia.

2. Dyslexia cannot be diagnosed in young children.

3. Dyslexia is caused by poor teaching.

4. The solution for dyslexia is to have children read aloud more often.

5. If a child can read, he does not have dyslexia.

Congressional Budget Cuts Affect Learning Ally (RFB&D)

2011-07-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

Like so many other nonprofit organizations, Learning Ally (RFB&D) recently learned that its current appropriation has been discontinued as part of the most recent round of Congressional budget cuts.

Effective August 31, all current individual memberships will expire. Effective September 1, a Learning Ally Individual membership will be $99 per year. However, prior to August 31, we are offering the opportunity to register or renew a one year Individual membership for $79. We hope you will take advantage of this limited time $79 membership offer.

What is Phonemic Awareness?

2011-06-12T19:28:00.001-07:00

Listen Dr. Reid Lyon, former Chief of the Child Development and Behavior Branch within the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), as he explains in his own words how phonemic awareness is an essential reading skill that children must have to become good readers.

OH House Passes Dyslexia Bill!

2011-05-25T05:07:00.000-07:00

According to Gongwer News Service:

The OH House approved 93-1 a bill that would allow three schools to voluntarily join a three-year pilot program involving screening and special instruction for students with dyslexia in cooperation with a local library.

Co-sponsor Rep. Ted Celeste (D-Grandview Heights) said as much as 20% of the population has the neurobiological disability that affects ones ability to read and do arithmetic. The goal of the pilot is to demonstrate and evaluate the effectiveness of early reading assistance programs for children with dyslexia and to evaluate whether those programs can reduce future special education costs.

"Dyslexia is not a disease, so there is no cure," he said, adding the bill would add dyslexia to the Ohio Revised Code definition of a learning disability.

Early identification of dyslexia will decrease the need for special education services, and all parties involved will experience long-run cost savings.

Existing Department of Education funds would be used to pay for screenings.

"By identifying dyslexia early on in the course of learning to read, we will prevent children from falling significantly behind in decoding, reading fluency, spelling and writing let alone avoiding the heartache, self esteem damage and expense to the families and schools involved," he said.

Rep. Brenner said participating schools would report results of the pilot after three years to determine if the program should be expanded.

7 Eagles perform for Villa Donors

2011-05-24T17:31:00.000-07:00

The 7 Eagles DI Team successfully demonstrated for Villa donors how they will move the Unidentified Moving Objects in this week's Global Competition. The Villa Donors were all impressed as the team successfully moved objects from the tower and the pool in under 8 minutes. One donor was amazed at the team's creativity in using the Swiffer that extends and comes apart to fit in the 20x20 box.

The entire Villa Community wishes the team well!

Go 7 Eagles!

Reading Research Articles

2011-05-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

Reid Lyon Articles

While Reid Lyon was in charge of the dyslexia research conducted through the National Institutes of Health, he wrote many superb articles on dyslexia, effective reading instruction, the importance of early intervention, and more.

Many of his best articles are available as downloadable PDF files here.

If you are trying to convince school administrators that dyslexia is real and change is needed, these articles will be very helpful.

FREE Dyslexia Presentation

2011-05-16T05:48:00.000-07:00

FREE Dyslexia Presentation

On May 20, 2011, from 6-9 p.m., Susan Barton, an internationally recognized expert in the field of dyslexia will speak for FREE in Cold Spring, KY. This event is being sponsored by Campbell County Schools.

Do not miss this opportunity.

You'll learn:

Dyslexia's Inheritance patterns and the genetic link
The symptoms of mild dyslexia in adults
The classic warning signs in children
Why most dyslexic children don't qualify for special ed
Research-based "best practices" to improve spelling, reading, and writing
Why tutoring alone is not enough -- and much more!!!

Seating is limited, so make a reservation here, or call Sarah Pershing at 614-563-0832.

RFB&D Audio App for iPhone

2011-05-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

New Way to Access Audiobooks!

Now Available: RFB&D^® Audio App for

iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch

Learning Ally, formerly Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic, books are now available for playback on iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch devices. You can enjoy your recently downloaded titles on your favorite Apple device.

The RFB&D Audio App is now available for only $19.99.

To learn more and purchase, visit: The iTunes Store.

FREE Dyslexia Presentation

2011-05-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

On May 20, 2011, from 6-9 p.m., Susan Barton, an internationally recognized expert in the field of dyslexia will speak for FREE in Cold Spring, KY.

Do not miss this opportunity.

You'll learn:

Dyslexia's Inheritance patterns and the genetic link
The symptoms of mild dyslexia in adults
The classic warning signs in children
Why most dyslexic children don't qualify for special ed
Research-based "best practices" to improve spelling, reading, and writing
Why tutoring alone is not enough -- and much more!!!

Seating is limited, so make a reservation here, or call Sarah Pershing at 614-563-0382.

2nd Dyslexia Bill in OH

2011-02-22T16:09:00.000-08:00

Representative Kirk Schuring is calling for co-sponsors on a Dyslexia Bill so that Educational Service Centers (ESCs) will be able to hire Dyslexia Specialists on their State Support Teams.

We need your help and support for this bill. Please email or call your Ohio Representatives and ask them to sign on as co-sponsors to this important teacher training bill for the Educational Service Centers.

Current co-sponsors for this bill calling for Dyslexia Specialists at ESCs include:

Rep. Snitchler (also co-sponsored HB 96)
Rep. Derickson
Rep. Hall
Rep. Combs
Rep. Letson
Rep. Stebelton (also co-sponored HB 96)

To find your representative's contact information, go to: http://www.house.state.oh.us/index.php?option=com_displaymembers&Itemid=58

Or leave a telephone message at 1-800-282-0253. Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Remember to also contact Representatives who co-sponsored HB 96 (Early Identification) and have not signed onto this 2nd Dyslexia bill yet, including:

Reps. Celeste, Brenner, Amstutz, Garland, Foley, Letson, Weddington, Pillich, Dovilla, Patmon, Ramos, Hollington, Phillips, Lundy, Thompson, O'Brien, Yuko, Murray, Williams, Stinziano, Stautberg, Antonio, Reece, Hagan, Fende, Fedor, Milkovich, Clyde, Winburn

Reading Disability makes up 80% of kids labeled LD

2011-01-31T09:40:00.000-08:00

From www.Ldonline.org:

Approximately 80 percent of students with learning disabilities have been described as reading disabled. Resources within this section provide information and advice on what parents and educators can do to help students with LD gain reading skills.

Follow this link to 83 articles.

RFB&D now Mac Compatible

2011-01-10T09:59:00.000-08:00

If your child qualifies with a diagnosed print disability, Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic are finally Mac compatible! Visit www.rfbd.org to download the free software to your Mac computer. Your computer must have OSX v10.5 (v10.6 recommended). If you have any problems, do not hesitate to contact their customer service department via email or on the phone.

Tech Tools to Support Learning

2010-11-11T08:12:00.000-08:00

As posted in the latest addition of Ldonline.org, Techmatrix "is a powerful tool to help to find educational and assistive technology products for students with disabilities."

Visit Techmatrix and search by content area to find links and articles about the latest technology available.

Technology Information

2010-11-11T08:11:00.015-08:00

Technology Information

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Technology Information

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Technology Information

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Technology Information

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Technology Information

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Technology Information

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Technology Information

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Parent Support Group Information

2010-10-12T13:57:00.001-07:00

In the upcoming months, the Ohio Valley Branch of the International Dyslexia Association has three parent support group meetings scheduled.

All meetings are held at the Oakley Community Center located at 3882 Paxton Ave. (inside Hyde Park Plaza near Bigg's) 45209.

Time: 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010- A Closer Look at Learning: How a Child Learns Best

Speaker: Barbara Hunter, Center Director for the Springer School and Center

Wednesday, February 23, 2011- Navigating the Special Education Process

Speaker: Sue Bitsko- Family Network Coordinator with State Support Team Region 13

Wednesday, May 4, 2011- Why Does Spelling Seem So Crazy?

Speaker: Alicia Sparks- Reading Consultant, Guest Lecturer and Teacher Trainer in Reading Instruction

For more information, contact OVB/IDA at 651-4747 or Mary Ellen Villalobos at mevillalobos@cinci.rr.com.

Dyslexia Awareness Rally in OH

2010-09-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

Join us in Columbus for

Dyslexia Awareness Day Rally!

What: 2nd Annual Dyslexia Awareness Day Rally

When: Wednesday, October 6, 2010; 10 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Where: State House South Lawn, Columbus, Ohio

Next Wednesday, three Ohio Branches of the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) are hosting a rally to raise public awareness about dyslexia and spur legislation that will serve and protect dyslexic children in Ohio. Come and join us at the State House in Columbus, where an array of speakers will sound the call for supportive policies on behalf of thousands of citizens with this "invisible learning difference."

You'll also listen in on powerful testimonials from people with dyslexia, enjoy original artwork and poetry, hear a music performance by Kelly Fine & Company (a dyslexic college student band), watch a dyslexia simulation, and much more!

Special note: Janet Milkovich, Vice President of Public Policy and Advocacy at RFB&D, Recording For the Blind & Dyslexic, will speak at the rally. Be sure to look for Janet between 10:30 and 11:30 near the podium at the stairs of the State House South Lawn; introduce yourself, take photos and submit stories that we can share with the wider RFB&D community nationwide.

View the Event Poster Online from COBIDA.

Email Janet Milkovich or call (312) 660-1982

Call or email your State Representatives to let them know that you support dyslexia legislation in OH.

Rep. Ted Celeste: (614) 644-6005 district24@ohr.state.oh.us

Rep. William Batchelder: (614) 466-8140 district69@ohr.state.oh.us

We look forward to meeting you in Columbus for a great show of solidarity between RFB&D, the Ohio Branches of IDA, as well as dyslexics, their families, and special educators from all over the state.

A Walk in the Life of a Dyslexic Teen

2010-09-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

Living "Lexi." A Walk in the Life of a Dyslexic Teen, written by Shelley Trammel and her daughter, who is dyslexic, takes the reader through the challenges and victories of a teenage girl with dyslexia.

Written in first person, Isabella describes her disbelief at not passing tests when she studied and studied, her frustration with feeling "less than normal," the strategies she uses to compensate in her daily life, and finally how she embraces her learning differences with the support of good friends and loving parents.

A quick read, Living Lexi, offers humorous insight for anyone with a pre-teen or teenage child with dyslexia.

OH Dyslexia Law Update

2010-09-07T08:48:00.000-07:00

OH representative Ted Celeste (D-Grandview Heights) and Minority Leader Bill Batchelder (R-Medina) recently introduced a bill (HB 572) that would create a pilot project to demonstrate the effectiveness of dyslexia identification and research-based intervention programs.

The Bill would define dyslexia as a developmental disability recognized under state law and create a pilot program to determine if early identification and intervention can reduce costs down the road. The goal of the program is to demonstrate the impact these methods have on reducing future special education costs for those students. Funding would be drawn from existing state resources (Department of Education).

The bill will undergo committee hearings this fall, but hopefully with bipartisan support, it will be enacted quickly.

To help gain support for HB 572, contact your local state representative here.

To read the Columbus Dispatch article about HB 572, click here.

Worthwhile to watch.....

2010-08-22T18:18:00.000-07:00

Videos about dyslexia from You Tube:

Nationally syndicated journalist, Nelson Lauver, speaks about his dyslexia here.

A message from the parent of a dyslexic child here.

Learn about famous dyslexics here.

Two More States Passed Dyslexia Law!

2010-05-11T07:04:00.000-07:00

Hawaii and New Jersey have passed dyslexia law!

The time is now to let our OH representatives know that we wish to pass a dyslexia law in OH!

Locate your representative here.

This law would mandate teacher training in all OH colleges, early screening for dyslexia in our schools, and research-based intervention for students not meeting reading benchmarks.

To read more details about the proposed OH Dyslexia Law, click here.

FREE Dyslexia Presentation

2010-04-15T05:21:00.000-07:00

Dyslexia Testing & Information Services, LLC and the Miamisburg City Schools are proud to offer a FREE 3 hour dyslexia presentation given by Susan Barton, a leading dyslexia expert and founder of Bright Solutions for Dyslexia.

When: May 7, 2010

Time: 6-9 p.m.

Where: Miamisburg City Schools Memorial Building

540 East Park Street

Miamisburg, OH 45342

www.Ohio.EventBrite.com

For questions or to register by phone, call:

513-616-0261

You'll learn:

Dyslexia's Inheritance patterns and the genetic link

The symptoms of mild dyslexia in adults

The classic warning signs in children

Why most dyslexic children don't qualify for special ed

Research-based "best practices" to improve spelling, reading, and writing

Why tutoring alone is not enough -- and much more!!!

Who should attend?

parents who are trying to determine if dyslexia is their child's issue, or who know it is and need to understand all the areas that it will impact, including math and memorization

teachers who don't understand why children who can't master spelling and struggle with reading don't qualify for special education services

reading specialists who need to know how to informally identify which of their struggling readers may have dyslexia -- and what to do to help them

principals who want to start early intervention programs to achieve the goal of No Child Left Behind -- that every student is reading at grade level by the end of third grade

resource specialists who need to know how to close the gap for students who have a learning disability

school psychologists who want to learn to distinguish dyslexia from other learning disabilities

speech language therapists who are often the first specialists to work with dyslexic children because of their difficulty articulating R's and L's, M's and N's, and S, SH and CH

pediatricians who are often asked by parents to test their children for dyslexia

counselors and psychologists who often deal with the lifelong emotional damage that undetected dyslexia and academic failure causes

Susan Barton is trained in seven different Orton-Gillingham-based programs and teaches several graduate-level courses through the University of San Diego.

Susan was recently inducted into the International Dyslexia Association’s Hall of Honor .

OH Dyslexia Law

2010-04-08T06:28:00.000-07:00

The Executive Committee of the Ohio Dyslexia Group has been working for the past two years to increase the awareness of dyslexia. It is their goal that a Dyslexia Law be passed in the state of Ohio. The bill will help to identify students and see that they get proper reading instruction in school. It will help to get teachers in colleges and universities trained in the multisensory approach in teaching reading.

The Bill will be written in April – early May. Hopefully it will be introduced by Representative Ted Celeste, the sponsor, in June.

The bill could pass quickly depending on the knowledge and excitement of the representatives for the bill......or linger....or die. We need to inform our state legislators of the important need for this bill.

Before the end of May, please contact your legislators and let them know about this is important issue.

To contact your Senator go to: http://www.ohiosenate.gov/

To contact your Representative go to: http://www.house.state.oh.us

OH Dyslexia Legislation

2010-03-29T07:53:00.000-07:00

Ohio Dyslexia Legislation

The Ohio Dyslexia Group

For further information click on the:
“Read the Background....” link below.

The Goal is to have every

Senator and Representative contacted before the Dyslexia Law is introduced.

WE NEED YOUR

Help!!!

All this effort is for our

students. For the students

who are dyslexic and struggling in reading.

We want them to have

Success in-

school!!!

Success in -

life!!!

After you contact your representatives send their names and their district number to:

info@cincinnatidyslexia.org

info@cobida.org

info@dyslexia-nohio.org

We will fill in the chart!!!

To conserve space no more than four √'s will be posted for each legislator. After

that a red number will be

posted under the name.

Read the Background

of the Ohio Dyslexia Law

Here.........

If you have difficulty locating your Senator or

Representative contact the

Board of Elections:

513.632.7000

The Executive Committee of the Ohio Dyslexia Group has been working for the past two years to increase the awareness of dyslexia. It is their goal that a Dyslexia Law be passed in the state of Ohio. This won’t happen unless legislators see a need for this. Please contact your legislators and let them know that this is an important issue for you and your child.

The Legislative Districts of Ohio

The numbers in the rows at the bottom of the each map indicate each district.The √ in the box below the number indicates how many people have indicated to us that they have contacted the Senator or Representative of this District.

To contact your Senator go to: http://www.ohiosenate.gov/

The Senate District Map

1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	13	14	15	16

17	18	19	20	21	22	23	24	25	26	27	28	29	30	31	32
	√		√√√√	√√

To contact your Representative go to: http://www.house.state.oh.us

The House of Representative District Map

1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	13	14	15	16	17	18

19	20	21	22	23	24	25	26	27	28	29	30	31	32	33	34	35	36	37	38	39
	√√ √					10			√

40	41	42	43	44	45	46	47	48	49	50	51	52	53	54	55 56	57	58

59	60	61	62	63	64	65	66	67	68	69	70	71	72	73	74	75	76	77	78
			√

79	80	81	82	83	84	85	86	87	88	89	90	91	92	93	94	95	96	97

The Three Ohio Branches of the Ohio Vally Branch- OVB/IDA - info@cincinnatidyslexia.org

International Dyslexia Association: Central Ohio Branch- CO/IDA - info@cobida.org Northern Ohio Branch- NOB/IDA- info@dyslexia-nohio.org

Tutors Available

2010-03-24T10:30:00.000-07:00

Research by the National Institutes of Health substantiates that research based intervention for an individual with dyslexia is to be instructed in reading and spelling in a way that is direct, explicit, and simultaneously multi-sensory.

The principles of instruction and content of a multisensory structured language program are essential for effective teaching methodologies. The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) actively promotes effective teaching approaches and related clinical educational intervention strategies for dyslexics.

Contact Dyslexia Testing & Information Services, LLC for tutoring information.

513-616-0261

Tutors now available!

RFB&D Scholarship Opportunity

2010-03-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

Accepting Applications for National Achievement Awards
Top Winners Receive $6,000

Deadline: April 1st

High school seniors with learning disabilities are eligible to win $6,000. Share your story as an RFB&D member and you could become one of our 51st National Achievement Award winners.

Click here to learn more and print out your application today.

Top winners will also receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, DC for an awards ceremony.

Please forward this information along to anyone who may be eligible and contact me at mgreenwald@rfbd.org or (609)243-7087 for more information.

Don't miss this opportunity! The deadline is fast approaching.

Is Dyslexia Inherited?

2010-01-10T18:10:00.000-08:00

Read this poignant article written by a dyslexic man upon realizing that his son has more than likely inherited dyslexia from his side of the family.

I Have Dyslexia. What Does That Mean?

2009-11-21T14:03:00.001-08:00

I Have Dyslexia. What Does That Mean?

A children's book written from the perspective of a child with dyslexia has gotten positive reviews!

My daughter is in her teens and has dyslexia. She received this book as a gift from a friend of mine, and it made her day! She has insight now into how dyslexia affected her early years, and this book "hit the nail on the head" of her experiences.

Shreveport, LA

Wonderful book to use with my dyslexic students in helping them feel OK about themselves and understanding dyslexia.

Groves, TX

I have two Dyslexic children and this book is spot on for their symptoms and how they have felt. I liked it so much I bought a copy for my LBS/LD teacher. If your child is being taught using a multi sensory or Orton-Gillingham based system it speaks about that as well. Perfect!

What is Dysgraphia?

2009-10-28T09:16:00.000-07:00

Many children with dyslexia also have dysgraphia- a learning disability that affects writing abilities. Link here to learn the warning signs and appropriate accommodations for dysgraphia.

An interview with Ldonline.org

2009-10-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

Ldonline.org, a national on-line publication interviews Shelley Ball-Dannenberg about her new children's book, I Have Dyslexia. What Does That Mean?

To read the full interview, link here.

No Such Thing as a Speech Only IEP

2009-10-13T06:19:00.000-07:00

Parents often contact me for dyslexia testing and their child is already on an IEP for speech. The child is not receiving interventions for reading, writing, spelling, math, or other developmental or functional needs.

A child on an IEP has already undergone a comprehensive evaluation to determine their weaknesses.

According to Ann Guinan, Ohio Dept. of Education, Office for Exceptional Children (September 9, 2009), once a student qualifies for services in one of the 13 handicapping categories, "the IEP must address all of the students educational needs (i.e reading intervention)."

Therefore, there is no such thing as a "speech only" IEP.

If your child is getting speech only services, ask what interventions are in place to address weaknesses in reading, writing, spelling, math or other developmental or functional needs.

OCECD (Ohio Coalition for Children with Disabilities), Summer 2009 Forum

5 Specific Types of Learning Disabilities

2009-10-05T17:37:00.000-07:00

Did you know that there are 5 specific learning disabilities? Some overlap, and children can experience learning problems in more than one area. Read about the 5 specific types of learning disabilities here.

FREE Talking Book Membership

2009-08-30T18:15:00.000-07:00

Individual Membership

Recordings for the Blind & Dyslexic

RFB&D Individual Membership is now FREE.

Thanks to major funding from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs, Grant #H327D090001 and support of private donors, RFB&D Individual Membership is now free to individuals with proper certification*.

Dyslexia Children's Book

2009-08-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

I am proud and happy to introduce my children's book, I Have Dyslexia. What Does That Mean?

This book was written with my daughter. It is intended to give dyslexic children a voice and parents and teachers a tool to use to discuss dyslexia with their children or students.

As the new school year rapidly approaches, I hope you will find this book helpful in discussing the most commonly diagnosed learning disability, dyslexia.

Click here, to order a copy of I Have Dyslexia. What Does That Mean?

The Importance of Early Intervention

2009-08-11T14:03:00.000-07:00

If your child is struggling, don't wait, get help now. Early intervention is key to a child's success in reading, writing, and spelling. Read the statistics in an article from LDonline.org.

Contact Dyslexia Testing & Information Services, LLC for information about dyslexia testing and tutoring.

Dislecksia: The Movie

2009-07-22T13:25:00.000-07:00

In a comic documentary, Dislecksia: The Movie, dyslexic director Harvey Hubbell V will present the latest scientific knowledge about dyslexia and the experiences of dyslexics.

Viewers will come to know dyslexics — and those who teach them and study them — not just as statistics or talking heads but as people. Audiences will learn about dyslexia: its causes, its effects, and what can be done about it.

How to Talk to A Child About Dyslexia

2009-07-17T09:25:00.000-07:00

Link to a short clip with personal stories from dyslexics.

This clip is an excellent tool to use when talking with children who have been diagnosed with dyslexia.

The Science of Reading and Dyslexia

2009-07-09T13:46:00.000-07:00

For anyone looking for a concise, research-based article explaining Dyslexia, The Science of Reading and Dyslexia is a must read. Especially informative is the section about Dyslexia Management- Accommodations.

The article details:

The Definition of Dyslexia

The Basic Facts About Dyslexia

The Cognitive Basis For Dyslexia- Brain Research

Making a Hidden Disability Visible

Translating Research Into Practice

What To Look For In Diagnosing Dyslexia

Essentials of Dyslexia Management- Accommodations

Teaching and Remediating Reading Difficulties

Adult Outcome of Dyslexia

Looking To the Future

Grant Funds Genetic Test for Dyslexia

2009-06-22T13:31:00.000-07:00

Yale University has won a $5.2 million dollar grant to conduct studies in locating genes involved with dyslexia.

The research will be led by Dr. Jeffrey Gruen, an associate professor at the Department of Pediatrics, Genetics, and Investigative Medicine at Yale. Gruen's discovery of the DCDC2 gene involved in dyslexia was named one of the top 10 scientific breakthroughs of 2005 by the journal Science.

To read the entire article, go to:
www.dys-add.com/YaleGrantforGeneticTest.pd

information courtesy of www.BrightSolutions.US

OH Dyslexia Law

2009-06-22T06:26:00.000-07:00

To raise awareness about dyslexia, a Dyslexia Awareness Day Rally is planned at the statehouse in Columbus, OH for October 1, 2009.

Most state legislators know NOTHING about dyslexia. Please take the time to contact your local legislators to let them know about dyslexia.

To read the details of the proposed OH Dyslexia Law click here, and then choose the Legislative Update tab.

Don't Forget Comprehension

2009-06-17T17:40:00.000-07:00

While it is imperative that dyslexic children receive remediation in an Orton-Gillingham based, multisensory approach to language, we must not forget that dyslexic children may also struggle with comprehending what they read.

The research on what type of teaching strategy works best for teaching comprehension is inconclusive.

What we do know is that good readers:

-summarize ideas in their own words

-identify the main ideas

-self question about the ideas of the text

-use graphic and semantic organizers

-monitor their comprehension

Children must be taught how to comprehend what they read.

The Institute of Education Sciences is a leader in the research of effective comprehension strategies.

Author Patricia Polacco speaks about her dyslexia

2009-05-15T12:54:00.000-07:00

Children's author Patricia Polacco speaks about her dyslexia and the teacher that changed her life.

Click here and scroll down the page to watch this short clip courtesy of Ldonline.org.

To read more about that special teacher and Ms. Polacco's struggles with reading, check out her book Thank You, Mr. Falker.

FREE Talking Book Service

2009-04-22T11:25:00.000-07:00

Children (or adults) with a diagnosed print disability now have another option in addition to Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic for talking books.

Book Share offers FREE downloadable literature books or textbooks to anyone with a diagnosed print disability. Simply fill out the application (which must be signed by a qualified professional) and begin downloading books on your computer.

If you have a PC computer, the FREE software is immediately available. If you have a Mac computer, Book Share has assured me that the FREE software is coming very soon.

Tax Benefits for Parents of LD children

2009-04-14T13:48:00.000-07:00

If you have a child with a severe learning disability, you may qualify for valuable tax benefits.

Read more about possible tax benefits for parents of LD children.

courtesy of GreatSchools.net

Inspiring Story of a Successful Dyslexic Artist

2009-03-10T19:00:00.000-07:00

ldonline.org has published a must read, inspiring story of the talented artist Eric McGehearty.

Read how Eric has learned to use his dyslexia as inspiration for his art, and how he uses his voice as a spokesperson for Recordings for the Blind & Dyslexic.

This story will remind any parent of a dyslexic child how important it is to nurture the child's strengths and not just focus on their weaknesses.

What is Orton-Gillingham?

2009-03-07T18:00:00.000-08:00

Orton-Gillingham is the research-based best way to remediate dyslexia.

Read Just the Facts here. (courtesy of the International Dyslexia Association)

To locate a certified Orton tutor in your area, contact your local branch of IDA.

Spelling Fact Sheet

2009-01-27T17:01:00.000-08:00

courtesy of Bright Solutions For Dyslexia- www.brightsolutions.us and as published by the International Dyslexia Association- www.interdys.org 2008

The International Dyslexia Association released a 4-page fact sheet on Spelling, which states that people with dyslexia have "conspicuous problems" with spelling and writing. The fact sheet quotes the research and explains how spelling needs to be taught.

To download the fact sheet go to www.dys-add.com/IDA-SpellingFactSheet.pdf

OH Dyslexia Legislation Update

2008-10-13T15:31:00.000-07:00

Representatives from the Northern, Central, and Ohio Valley branches of the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) are diligently working to pass dyslexia legislation in OH.

This legislation will include:

Assessment, prevention, and remediation for students with dyslexia.
Systematic, explicit reading instruction.
Instruction taught by a teacher adequately trained and coached.
Professional development of teachers, administrators, and superintendents stressing an understanding of dyslexia and what type of instruction dyslexics need to learn to read, write and spell.
After the bill takes effect, if the district does not have teachers who are properly trained, the district must provide a qualified tutor to work with students during the school day.
Education majors at all universities/colleges in OH must be educated about dyslexia as part of the reading curriculum.
Professors of education as all universities/colleges in OH must be educated about dyslexia and effective methods of teaching these students.

Raising Awareness about dyslexia is key to the passage of this Bill. A DYSLEXIA AWARENESS DAY is planned for April 22, 2009. Details for this day are forth coming.

A web site is being planned that will explain how you can help.

In the meantime, spread the word about this legislation. This Bill will change the lives of so many struggling students in OH.

Stay tuned to this blog for further updates.

Remediation Rewires Dyslexic Brains

2008-09-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

(This information is courtesy of the Fall 2008 Dyslexia Newsletter from Bright Solutions, www.BrightSolutions.US)

A new Carnegie Mellon University brain imaging study of dyslexic students shows that the brain can permanently rewire itself and overcome reading deficits, if students are given 100 hours of intensive remedial instruction.

The study published in the August issue of the journal of Nueropsychologia, shows that the remedial instruction resulted in an increase in brain activity in several cortical regions associated with reading, and that gains became further solidified during the year following instruction.

"This study demonstrates how remedial instruction can use the plasticity of the human brain to gain an educational improvement," said neuroscientist Marcel Just, director of Carnegie Mellon's Center for Cognitive Brain Imaging (CCBI) and senior author of the study. "Focused instruction can help underperforming brain areas to increase their brain proficiency."

To read the rest of this research article, click here.

Daniel X- a great read for adolescent boys!

2008-08-22T10:27:00.000-07:00

The Dangerous Days of Daniel X

By James Patterson

Little, Brown & Co.

Fiction

272 pages

The greatest superpower of all isn't to be part spider, part man, or to cast magic spells. The greatest power is to create. Daniel X has that power. Daniel's secret abilities- like being able to manipulate objects and animals with his mind or to recreate himself in any shape he chooses- have helped him survive. Daniel does not have a normal life. He is the protector of the earth, the Alien Hunter, with a mission beyond any one's imagining!

Although Daniel X is not the typical book that I would choose to read for myself, any teenage boy will not be able to put this book down! It is action packed- think Men in Black with Will Smith. Although the aliens that Daniel faces are "out of this world," he is still very much like any young man trying to find his way to adulthood.

Daniel is very likable and someone that teenage boys will identify with. He has fears, wishes for a girlfriend, counts on his friends for support, and teases his little sister. All the while, Daniel is saving the earth from alien invasion!

I found myself looking for free moments during the day to steal away and see what was around the corner for Daniel X! Be cautioned, though, the content is intended for teenagers. I would not recommend this for an elementary or middle school boy.

Vision Problems NOT the Cause of Dyslexia

2008-08-03T13:21:00.000-07:00

A popular myth about dyslexia is that it is a vision problem. Dyslexia is neurologically based, and has nothing to do with vision. A child could have acuity problems AND dyslexia, but problems with eyesight do not cause dyslexia. If your child is having difficulty seeing the board or reading, it is certainly a good idea to have a thorough eye exam. However, "vision therapy" will not cure dyslexia. Beware of any doctor who makes that claim.

Recommended Pediatric Ophthalmologist in Cincinnati, OH:

Dr. Miles Burke

10475 Montgomery Rd. Suite 4-F

Cincinnati, OH 45242

513-984-4949

Summer Reading for Adolescent Boys

2008-07-30T09:20:00.000-07:00

The Dangerous Days of Daniel X

By James Patterson

Little, Brown & Co.

Fiction

272 pages

The greatest superpower of all isn't to be part spider, part man, or to cast magic spells. The greatest power is to create.

Daniel X has that power.

Daniel's secret abilities- like being able to manipulate objects and animals with his mind or to recreate himself in any shape he chooses- have helped him survive. Daniel does not have a normal life. He is the protector of the earth, the Alien Hunter, with a mission beyond anyone's imagining!

Adolescent boys will not be able to put this action packed book down! For more information on Daniel X, visit www.amazon.com.

I Have Dyslexia. What Does That Mean?

2008-07-18T15:30:00.000-07:00

My name is Delaney. I have dyslexia. That means that my brain works differently than other kids' brains.

Presenting pg. 1 of I Have Dyslexia. What Does That Mean? a children's book co-authored by Shelley Ball-Dannenberg and her 8 year-old daughter, Delaney. The book is written from the perspective of a child with dyslexia. It is aimed at giving children with this language-based learning disability their own voice. After reading the book, children, parents, and teachers will better understand dyslexia and what life is like for a child who has the disorder.

The beautiful watercolor illustrations are being created by Erika Jones. To see more of Erika's work, click here.

To pre-order a copy of I Have Dyslexia. What Does That Mean? contact Shelley Ball-Dannenberg

2008-06-10T19:34:00.000-07:00

Early identification of dyslexia is imperative.

Colorado and Mississippi pass new legislation mandating that schools screen children for dyslexia!

To read more about the Colorado legislation go to: www.dys-add.com/CODyslexiaBill.pdf

To read more about the Mississippi legislation go to:

www.dys-add.com/MSDyslexiaScreening.pdf

2008-05-31T11:09:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendar!

We are hosting a workshop in Cincinnati, OH for parents and teachers on September 25, 2008. Understanding Learning Disabilities will focus on Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia and ADHD. You will learn the warning signs of these disorders, as well as how to remediate and accommodate at home and at school. The cost is only $20 per person!

For more information contact us at sbd@dtisinfo.com or call 513-616-0261.

2008-05-20T13:56:00.001-07:00

Building and practicing phonemic awareness is an important pre-reading skill for young children. Visit these 3 web sites for ideas of how to help your child.

www.readingrockets.org/helping/target/phonologicalphonemic

http://forpd.ucf.edu/strategies/stratPhonemicAwareness.html

http://www.nea.org/teachexperience/ifc03048.html

2008-04-28T08:07:00.000-07:00

It is important to remember that although children may complete an Orton-Gillingham based tutoring program, as they move into the upper grades in school, they may need a "refresher." As the curriculum becomes more complicated, vocabulary words become larger and less familiar, and the amount of information a child is expected to take in becomes much faster in pace, the child may need to review.

There is an intermediate Orton-Gillingham program. There are fewer tutors for this program, but you can locate a certified tutor through the International Dyslexia Association at www.interdys.org. Search for your local branch. Give them a call, and they can put you in touch with a certified tutor.

You can also locate tutors through Masonic Learning Centers in your area.

Dyslexia is life-long, but with proper tutoring and accommodations, children can be very successful!

2008-04-05T18:08:00.001-07:00

Check out LDonline .org for the latest info. on learning disabilities!

From the International Dyslexia Association...

2008-03-25T17:38:00.000-07:00

In their Winter edition of Perspectives on Language and Literacy, IDA discusses "demystifying the "D" word. A parent writes an article about how her daughter was labeled SLD, but was not offered any specific information as to why the girl could not read. The founder of a school for dyslexic children writes about why the term learning disabled is too vague to be of use in helping a dyslexic child, and about how important an early diagnosis is to a child's success.

Newspaper Interview

2008-03-20T10:26:00.000-07:00

Met with a reporter today from the Cincinnati Enquirer who is writing a story about my organization and the challenges those faced with Dyslexia need to overcome. In the future, I'll be sharing stories of hope, success and providing resources for anyone faced with Dyslexia so together, we can overcome.