The SENDcast

Dyslexia Myth Busting with Louise Selby

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Episode notes

This Dyslexia Awareness Week (7-13 October), we are excited to share our latest podcast episode featuring dyslexia specialist Louise Selby! We tackle some of the most common myths surrounding dyslexia, shedding light on the misunderstandings that persist in education and beyond.

There’s a significant debate about whether dyslexia even exists, and it’s concerning that many educators and parents still lack a clear understanding of this condition. A shared understanding could lead to better support for students, ultimately focusing on providing high-quality teaching.

In this episode, we debunk 10 Myths about Dyslexia, including:

  1. Dyslexics see letters move on the page and reverse letters
  2. Dyslexia friendly teaching means using coloured paper and overlays
  3. Dyslexia is linked to intelligence
  4. Good readers can't have dyslexia
  5. If you just knuckle down and work a bit harder it’ll go away
  6. Anyone who has the money to pay for a private assessment can get the label
  7. Dyslexia means you get extra time in exams
  8. Reading and spelling intervention for dyslexics is different and requires specialist training
  9. All dyslexics are creative and visual thinkers
  10. All dyslexics are good at seeing the bigger picture and thinking outside the box

Listen to this enlightening conversation that demystifies dyslexia and empowers educators and parents alike. Together, we can create a more supportive environment for all learners!

 

About Louise Selby

Louise worked as a specialist advisory teacher in Hertfordshire Local Authority for 11 years, where she gained extensive experience in training teaching assistants and SENCOs in meeting the needs of learners with specific learning difficulties. Before this, Louise worked as a class teacher and SENCO in the primary sector and also as a teacher of learners with English as an Additional Language. She now works freelance in advising, training and supporting schools as well as assessing for specific learning difficulties (dyslexia). Louise’s interest is in enabling and equipping staff in schools at grass roots level to meet learners’ needs. , and she is currently writing her next two books for the same publisher, called All About Dyslexia.

 

Contact Louise

https://x.com/louiseselby21

http://www.louiseselbydyslexia.com

louise@louiseselbydyslexia

 

Useful Links

Access Arrangements blog

Visual skills checklist, Dyslexia definitions & fact sheet

 

 

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