#1 ARCHIVE POSTS FROM 
SPECIAL EDUCATION FOLDER:  HELP ON DYSLEXIA
MAY 27, 1994 - JULY 31, 1995
FILE NAME:  SPEDDYX2.TXT
17 PAGES



Subj:  DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-05-27 19:06:20 EDT
From:  Ubiquity10

What can be done for a 11 yr old child that has been diagnosis with this
problem .  The school system has no real help for the child. Spec ed is not
for him. What should a parent do?Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-05-28 00:29:28 EDT
From:  MLeal

I am an educational psychologist. As a consultant to schools, I have seen
many children who could be labeled dyslexed. 
Dyslexia must be seen in terms of degrees. Not all dyslexics present the same
learner profile. This is important. The Stevenson program for reading at
times has helped dyslexed children. In a Massachusetts school, in 1986 I
found a 13 year old girl who could not read. She had been labeled mentally
retarded. After I introduced the teacher to the Stevenson program, progress
was almost unbelievable.

 Ask the school psychologist in your child's school for his/her cognitive or
learning style. Or send me the results of recent achievement tests, as well
as the scores obtained with the WISC-R or the WISC III. Be sure to provide
score for all subtests. I will be able to tell you if the Stevenson program
will be able to help. I will keep an eye for this information here.

Look in your library for an article in Scientific American, 1985 (?) on
Dyslexia by Frank R. Vellutino. His book with the same title (MIT Press,
1979) will also help with insights.

Edpsych, NJ.
 Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-05-28 09:53:36 EDT
From:  SusanS29

     We need more information. "Dyslexia" merely means the child has had a
lot of difficulty learning to read to most people. If we're to make sensible
suggestions we'll have to know more about how the child does and doesn't
learn.Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-05-30 02:06:59 EDT
From:  Maupin

Was the child tested by the school district?  If so, what was their
recommendation?  You said Special Ed was not for him - why?  Are you
referring to a specialized classroom, or to all forms of Special Ed,
including Resource programs?  What, if anything, has been done about the
situation?  Ditto to what Susan said - we need more info and we'll be glad to
share any ideas with you.Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-06-14 22:02:55 EDT
From:  EileenHutc

How does the Stevenson method compare to Orton Gillingham?Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-06-20 22:53:57 EDT
From:  LouisB2139

Utilize an NLP thearpist who can work with
left and right brain visualisation patterns.
Louis b1239Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-06-25 14:52:36 EDT
From:  Cloud43

Contact NCLD at 99 Park Ave. NYC
1-212-687-7211 for referral to LDTC
tutor or special school if problem severe.
Also Orton Society can refer to schools and
services, 71 W. 23 NYCSubj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-07-05 02:23:55 EDT
From:  Maggieb707

The Stevenson Method is very good also the Scottish Rite Institute {similar
to Stevenson} is good.  But last year we began using a multi-sensory computer
program that addressed both auditory and visual dyslexia.  We've had
excellant results with our LD, Chapter 1 dyslexic, and Section 504 children.
contact me maggieb707 through e-mail for more information.Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-07-09 21:52:10 EDT
From:  Fayal

It is a linguistic approach. In Attleboro, MA, the two methods were used, as
I am told. The Stevenson method was developed by a teacher their. Subj:
dyslexia testing
Date:  94-07-13 21:39:58 EDT
From:  DvlBell

   My daughter transposes letters and words frequently when reading. She was
tested at Sylvan for reading compehension, but Sylvan does not do specialized
testing for ADD or other disorders. 
   When I approached the school district, I was told that the test is
administered upon teacher recommendation.  Was I given the runaround?
   What can I do to make sure that she is properly tested by reputable
people?  Any help is appreciated.Subj:  Re:dyslexia testing
Date:  94-07-14 12:37:59 EDT
From:  SusanS29

     It depends on what testing you wanted. If you think your child has a
learning disability, you apparently have a strong case for requesting
testing. I'm assuming you wouldn't go to the expense of Sylvan if your child
was a solid reader, right?
       Is your child in remedial reading at school?
        Dyslexia doesn't involve things like reversals (unlike the popular
beliefs). Reading is a language-based difficulty. My child has *severe*
visual-perceptual difficulties but has been always been an excellent reader,
which correlates with her excellent verbal/language skills.
        However, the reversals might be indicative of some other complicating
factor. Parents have the right to request testing to see if their child is
eligible for services through special education (such as for a learning
disability, and dyslexia falls in that area). The schools may not refuse to
test just because the teacher didn't recommend it when the parent can support
the request.
       The reason for this is that too often teachers jump to conclusions.
They decide the child isn't bright, or that the child is lazy (in short, they
"call him names.") This name-calling stops all other efforts to find help:
"He's just slow"; "He could do it if he tried"; etc.
       Fight for your child's rights.Subj:  Re:dyslexia testing
Date:  94-07-16 16:54:27 EDT
From:  DvlBell

  It's baffling. She reads well, spells and speaks very well, does excellent
work in computational math, but has problems with reading comprehension and
organization. Although remedial reading classes had never been suggested,  I
could see that something was amiss (hence $ylvan).
  Your last paragraph hit a chord; the teachers tell me that she could do
better work, if she "applied" herself more.
  What did you decide to do in your daughter's case?
Subj:  Re:dyslexia testing
Date:  94-07-18 00:53:02 EDT
From:  SusanS29

     I had my daughter tested for learning disabilities. She was found to be
LD in the areas of math and written expression. Now they would only claim
math, but I'll never know as we withdrew her from services.
      Two things right off the bat are likely to cause the combination of
comprehension and organizational skills: language difficulties (which can be
quite subtle) and attention deficit disorder. Mind you, I'm not saying your
child *does* have either of these problems, but from what you've said so far
if I were testing her I would check out those areas carefully.
       BTW, a child can be quite talkative and still have a language
disorder. Sometimes a language disorder is quite subtle and most people--even
educators--wouldn't necessarily pick it up. Likewise, the symptoms of ADD can
be subtle to the untrained eyes and yet still cause significant problems. A
child does *Not* have to be hyperactive to have ADD.
       Usually reading comprehension problems stem from inadequate sight
vocabulary and/or decoding skills (decoding is things like phonics and
syllabication-- the skills we use to figure out new and unfamiliar words.)
      If your child has significantly depressed reading comprehension scores
on a good, normed, individual measure of reading she can be declared learning
disabled in the area of reading comprehension.
      How old is your child, and in what grade?Subj:  Re:dyslexia testing
Date:  94-07-18 21:59:40 EDT
From:  DvlBell

She's 14 and in the 9th grade. I won't be sending her back to $ylvan, as they
did not help her to any great extent. As a matter of fact, her grades
dropped. I was not pleased, to say the least. Do you recommend the people who
tested your daughter? If so, please send e-mail if you would rather not post
the information.Subj:  Re:dyslexia testing
Date:  94-07-18 22:56:01 EDT
From:  SusanS29

     My daughter was tested by the local school district. Although they do an
excellent job where I am different states have different standards... results
vary.
      One place you could look into would be a reading clinic at a good
university. The testing is usually done by graduate students and supervised
by the university instructional staff. You might not like the idea of grad
students testing your child at first, but those students are so eager and so
diligent it usually works out quite well, and their efforts are supervised
every step of the way.
       Diagnosing the reading problems of a high school student is a complex
task and should be left to real reading experts. A university would be the
first place I would look if in your shoes.Subj:  Re:dyslexia 
Date:  94-08-02 09:13:27 EDT
From:  Pteacher

Try reading the following book:  READING BY THE COLORS,
by Helen Irlen.  I have additional information for help in your area.Subj:
Re:Computer program
Date:  94-08-10 22:07:47 EDT
From:  ROHARE

About 5 years ago, there was a real time spell checker out there called Turbo
Lightning.  It was put out of print.  It would check the word as you typed
it.  Does anyone know of anything new out there that will run on the new IBM
tech?  Pls email rohare  Much thx.Subj:  Tinted lenses
Date:  94-08-24 15:25:10 EDT
From:  Angie333

Anyone know of any info on the uses of colored glasses to improve Dyslexia
with these glasses?  Saw it on CNN  a l-o-n-g time ago.  If you have an idea
of what I am talking about, please e-mail me at ANGIE333.  Thanks!Subj:
Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-08-24 22:18:33 EDT
From:  TREYS TOY

I have a child  for is a broad range dyslexia. What is the Stevenson Program?
Is it available in the N.C. school systems or is it  only given by private
agencies.?

      Is it alright to let a L.D. student  use easier methods to learn?
Example:  caculators, time tables, no timed tests, and the list continues but
no room? Thanks for any help to make learning easier and fun. Mom of dyslexia
child.  Send help to Treys Toy.Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-08-27 22:32:04 EDT
From:  Dorothyvdh

Dear Ubiquity, You need a new method of teaching dyslectic kids to read which
is based on the neurological basis of the problem called enhanced
lateralization. It can be home-tutored and is extremely effective. Write
dorothyvdh for helpful information. Good luck!Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-08-30 00:10:17 EDT
From:  SusanS29

     The method you talk about may be quite interesting, but I doubt if it's
suitable for all children with learning disabilities. What works well for one
may well be a terrible approach for another because they're all so individual
in learning style.
       As for using things like calculators, I think a balance has to be
reached,and that balance will be different for every child. Using a times
table makes more sense than denying the child an opportunity to move forward,
but meanwhile aggressive measures should be taken to make sure the child is
actively working on mastery of them. One very good thing to do is to use
small colored stickers to block the answers where the child already knows
them.
       Ditto for calculators. There's a time and a place for everything, but
the goal should always be to normalize a child's education whenever possible.
Although support interventions make things temporarily easier for the child
we run the risk of denying the child an opportunity to learn if used too
liberally or casually.Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-09-13 20:06:27 EDT
From:  SusanS7260

I am new to AOL and have been searching manyof the bulletin boards not only
for my hobby interests but also professional.  Being a special education
teacher with learning disabled children  I figured that I should check out
this one.  I am happy that I did.  First, I use the Stevenson Program, the
Orton Gillingham method and just received training in the Project Read - the
Language Circles component not the phonology part (written expression vs.
reading)  I have seen much success with both and (Stevenson & Orton) usually
incorporate the two.  The Stevenson is a linguistic method BUT what makes it
different is that it uses Mnemonics ( memory aids) where as the Orton is very
rule oriented when teaching spelling ( use oa in the middle of a word, boat
etc.)  The Stevenson begins teaching long vowel sounds specifically the first
lesson 'oa" and then compares these words to a peanut butter and jelly
sandwich.  All of us in our group usually make one and eat it.  You know it
is the crunchy peanut butter not the smooth jelly , that makes the noise.
And then we get into layer cake words (bake, nose etc.)
I discovered this program looking through our Intermediate School District
library read the manual and put it into gear.  I did happen to see the author
Nancy Stevenson at a conference.  The kids enjoy this program and make very
good progress.
Here's the address for more info.
Stevenson Learning Skills
8 Commonwealth Avenue
Attleboro Falls, MA  02763-1014
Good luck, also the book Reading by The Colors is helpful
I have seen colored lenses work for some kids I have worked with and my
daughter will be getting hers in about two weeks.  She is not learning
disabled, is in fifth grade and reading at and eighth grade level.  However
she was getting headaches from the lighting and the white pages in the book.
If it works use it.
Let me know if you need anymore info.
Susan   Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-09-27 20:29:47 EDT
From:  JamesN3373

We are new to AOL and have a gifted dyslexic 14 year old son.  He is bored
with traditional education and is in search of a true learning environment as
opposed to routine experiences.  We live in southern Florida and it appears
the best programs are in the northeast.  Can anyone suggest a couple of the
best education programs to us.  While we are not excited about the prospects
of boarding school, we recognize that our son has much to offer and would
flourish in the right environment.  Thank you.Subj:  Re: Dyslexia
Date:  94-09-27 22:13:47 EDT
From:  JTMARLIN

Does anyone have any information re: the Lindamood - Bell techniques for
remediating Central Auditory Processing Disorders (CAPD) in dyslexic
children? The company, based in California, has offices in Atlanta and has
made some news in our area lately (Middle Tennessee). Please respond.Subj:
Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-09-30 18:08:37 EDT
From:  ISA WOMAN

To everyone dealing with dyslexia and other learning disabilities:
   Go directly to the source....gang!   Orton Dyslexia Society and the
Learning Disabled of America are the authority on the subject.  They can send
you all the info you need, refer you to a place nearby and could even refer
you to a parent advocate!  Stay away from all these private places UNTIL you
have consulted these organizations!  Trust me, I've been there!  I,too, am a
parent advocate and would be open to your questions! Email ISA WOMAN   Subj:
Re: Dyslexia
Date:  94-10-02 03:58:11 EDT
From:  Socadream

JTMARLIN,  the Lindamood-bell techniquie is *fantastic*!!!!  I am the parent
of a very intelligent 11 yr old girl who on ending the fifth grade wrote and
read at a 2/3 grade level but had the potential to be at least at the 8th
grade level. She was in a pilot program here in CA (Long Beach School
District) over the summer.  19 kids and 5 teachers.  All trained and using
the Lindamood- Bell system.  I am very happy to say she was pre-tested before
the program and the post-testing at the end showed she had gone up to the 5/6
grade level in reading.  Spelling would improve gradually.  Unfortunaltely,
if this is not supported and continued, she could lose a lot of what she has
gained.  I am working now to get this into the public school system.  We all
know how resistant they are to changes, even when something has been proven
to work.  Check it out.  I hear it may be very expensive to get these
services privately.  Good Luck.  If everyone would pass the info and request
it be tried,  maybe parents could get the feds or persue other ways to get
this into the public schools.  If they did, Learning Disabilities may be
remediated in the early years and our kids could live and learn to thier full
potential!!!
SocadreamSubj:  Dyslexia - Lindamood-Bell
Date:  94-10-03 23:28:44 EDT
From:  JTMARLIN

Socadream - Thanks for the reply. Tell me more about the Pilot program. Was
this sponsored by the school system or did L-Bell do the program non-gratis?
I've heard it's a very expensive program. Is your child currently receiving
service? If yes, who pays? I think they are a for-profit company, but can't
they teach their methods and share materials with the public school systems
ina reasonable way? Please advise.
Subj:  Re:Tinted lenses
Date:  94-10-11 00:50:20 EDT
From:  GaryM78511

I'M NEW AT THIS ON LINE STUFF. hAVE ONLY USED IT 3 TIMES NOW IN 6 MONTHS. SO
I HOPE TO GET THIS DONE CORRECTLY. I RECEIVED MY TINTED GLASSES 9 YEARS AGO.
YES THEY DO WORK. I AM CURRENTLY A SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER IN HUNTINGTON
BCH CA. I COULDN'T HAVE MADE IT WITHOUT THE GLASSES. THE INSTITUTE IS: 
IRLEN INSTITUTE
5380 VILLAGE ROAD
LONG BEACH CA. 90808
310-496-2550
HELEN IRLEN
TELL HER GARY SENT YOU. THEY HAVE OFFICES ALL ACROSS THE US. IF I KNEW YOUR
LOCATION I COULD HAVE REFERED A CLOSER ONE. 
GOOD LUCK! THEY DO WORK!!!!!!!!Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-10-22 13:05:53 EDT
From:  Don McCabe

I agree wholeheartedly with ISA WOMAN.  If you need help contact the Orton
Dyslexia Society.  Another non-profit membership organization that you might
want to get help from is the AVKO Educational Research Foundation.  They have
helped my son and grandson.  They do free daily tutoring at their clinic and
will send you free brochures on dyslexia as well as a catalog of their
materials.  Their address is 3084 W. Willard Road, Clio MI 48420 or you can
call (810) 686-9283.Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-10-24 20:39:20 EDT
From:  MarkMPLKTM

Help, I have a 14 year old daughter who was diagnosed two years ago with
dyslexia and was finally placed in a learning disabilities lab at school.
Unfortunately, we have now moved to another state and they tell us she is not
qualified for placement in the learning disabilities lab under this states
standards.  It took us 5 years to get the schools to recognize that she has a
problem and now I don't know what I should do?  My daughter tests out high in
math and science as long as it is done verbally.  Any ideas would be
appreciated, I don't want to lose the ground we made up in the last two
years.Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-10-25 09:36:37 EDT
From:  SusanS29

Mark, what state do you live in now? One of the most frustrating things for
parents who move is when they discover that each state sets their own
standards.

You will have to get her a tutor. In addition you should look into getting
Books on Tape (I don't have an address here but if you dig you'll find it)
for her textbooks. Then she can listen as she reads along--or just listen.
She can tape-record her class lectures to review them that way also.

Also I would suggest you contact some of the adult literacy programs, such as
Laubauch. They may well be able to put you in touch with organizations that
provide taped books.

Be warned: when a new textbook comes out these places don't put them on tape
until they get a request, and then it can take up to six months. Find out by
January what her next year's textbooks will be, and put your request in
early.Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-10-25 19:32:07 EDT
From:  MarkMPLKTM

Susan:  We moved from Oklahoma to Georgia which we thought was going to be a
good move, but it's beginning to be a challenge, since we
moved from a model school system.  I appreciate your advise and will do some
checking on this.  ThanksSubj:  Study skills for dyslexic childr
Date:  94-10-28 00:06:44 EDT
From:  TREYS TOY

My child is a broad range dyslexic.  She has problems in the areas of
auditory, visual, and motor.  She is almost 10 years old and in the fourth
grade.  She is having troubles in  homework studying.  I need some advice on
how to help her study.  Thanks . Send E-mail to Trey's Toy.  Subj:
Re:Dyslexia - Lindamood-Bell
Date:  94-11-02 14:51:37 EDT
From:  Socadream

JTMARLin, Yes, the pilot program was done thru the Long Beach Unified School
District.  They had teachers trained in Lindamood-bell and put on a summer
reading program for 6 weeks (5 days a week for 4 hrs. each day).  Like I said
before, my daughter went up 3 and a half grade levels, since for once she was
being taught the english language rules in her learning ways.  Last night she
addressed our school board in a speech she wrote herself.  The board
dedicated the meeting to her and said they would look into expanding it to
the middle and high school level.  (maybe do it again)  I hope they do, since
she would be able to address her spelling more this time around.  You could
get more info by calling the Special Ed dept. of the LBUSD at (310) 436-9931,
X1311.  The reading clinic was done at Buffams Elementary school, the
principal who ran it (his child is LD too) was Bob Hedges.  Hope this helps.
Let me know. Email if you want.  I still have to learn how to Email.
Socadream
Subj:  Re:Dyslexia - Source List
Date:  94-11-14 11:05:04 EDT
From:  Melino G

Could somebody who has the information, PLEASE compile a source list
including organizations, special schools, and literature pertaining to LD and
dyslexia and place it in the special education Library.  It would answer 90%
of the questions posted here and help me a great deal.Subj:  MULTI-SENSORY
PHONICS
Date:  94-12-02 23:19:28 EDT
From:  JLUS

If you are dealing with a dyslexic, look into any local tutoring clinic that
teaches using a multi-sensory phonics based method.  Be sure that their
tutors have EXTENSIVE training in the method.  Tutoring centers such as
Sylvan do not specialize in helping  dyslexics/ld learners.

I am the director of a highly successful clinic in Detroit metro area... we
use multi-sensory approaches with our students and no one has ever left
dissatisfied with their rate of progress!

If you need information on finding help in your area, email me and I will
respond.  Also, look into the Orton Society based in Baltimore.

Laurie
Subj:  Re:MULTI-SENSORY PHONICS
Date:  94-12-03 23:57:50 EDT
From:  Julia31528

SusanS29
I have read you say that you used materials like legos to help your daughter
with visual processing problems.  Can you suggest other materials for this
purpose that could be used with a child who has limited use of her hands?
She loves to use the computer, by the way.Subj:  Re:MULTI-SENSORY PHONICS
Date:  94-12-04 00:41:06 EDT
From:  SusanS29

     Well, no... I never said I used Legos to help my daughter with visual
processing problems. When she showed interest in Legos we encouraged it, but
we didn't even know she had difficulty. By the way, her difficulty isn't with
visual processing but with visual perception. Once she knows what she's
looking at she has no trouble processing it. She picked up reading very
quickly because she's highly verbal, and reading is a language-based skill.
She learned to read notes with some difficulty but once she got the visual
perceptual challenges straightened out has learned to read music well.
     How limited is the use of your child's hands? Does she have something
like CP or is it just fine-motor difficulties? If it's just fine-motor
difficulties, she should do what my daughter did: with practice, she'll be
able to work with the pieces. Tell me more about that part of your child's
difficulty and maybe I'll have a suggestion. I'm extremely familiar with the
combinatio of visual-perceptual and fine-motor difficulties.Subj:
Re:MULTI-SENSORY PHONICS
Date:  94-12-04 19:37:47 EDT
From:  Julia31528

SusanS29,
     Sorry, thought you said something in a message awhile back about using
the Legos as remediatian.  (That's what I get for taking a couple of months
to get around to asking a question! <g> )  Anyway, Emilie has CP (very
extensive).  She's above age level on receptive language and pretty much on
target w/expressive.  She has trouble with spatial concepts like above and
below.  She's strong in auditory stuff--she's great at spelling out loud and
can even type the words by saying each letter in order as she types, but you
can hand her a printout of the words she just typed, and she just looks
puzzled.  She's pretty lost in math, too.
     We've been told she did poorly on a "visual perception" test.  What is
the difference between that and visual processing?  Now I don't know whether
they said processing, too.  
     Anyway, suggestions for helping her with visual perception in light of
her not being able to do much manipulation at all?
     Thanks!    
Julia
Subj:  Re:MULTI-SENSORY PHONICS
Date:  94-12-04 20:25:40 EDT
From:  SusanS29

Visual perception means the eyes work properly but her brain sort of
"scrambles the signal." In addition, visual perception, when weak, tends to
be inconsistent, so the child sees the letter rightside up one time and
upside down another.

I don't know of any ways to work on visual perception without hands-on
activities. Doesn't mean it can't be done, just that I haven't done it--and I
only speak from solid knowledge or experience. I don't shoot from the hip or
make guesses.

That's a real problem with kids who have CP--they often have LD issues as
well, but the LD teacher knows nothing about CP and the CP teacher knows
nothing about LD. The two fields need to put their heads together.

You can't retrain visual perception, but your child can learn to perceive
what she needs to perceive better.

More on processing a little later... I've got to cook dinner.

susanSubj:  The GIFT of Dyslexia
Date:  94-12-05 18:01:52 EDT
From:  Bergmom

Everyone with a bright, known or suspected dyslexic kid should contact the
Reading Research Council in Burlingame, CA (415.692.8990) & get the books
"The Gift of Dyslexia" and "You Don't Have to Be Dyslexic". 

"The Gift of Dyslexia" is written by Ron Davis, and describes Davis
Orientation Counseling.  It is intended as a SELF-HELP book, with a
step-by-step scripted description of techniques to use to learn to control
the perceptual distortions associated with dyslexia.  "You Don't Have to Be
Dyslexic" is an earlier work, written by a therapist using Davis' technique,
as well as others, which describes three "types" of dyslexia, and therapeutic
approaches appropriate to all.

I am fortunate enough to live near the Reading Research Council, and to have
worked with their staff as well as read the Davis book.  The difference for
my 11-year-old son was phenomenal, and produced results within days.  He read
at "grade level", but with incredible difficulty both with speed &
comprehension, and he HATED every reading assignment. He was a lonely and
morose kid, who "kept to himself" at school, and volunteered for nothing.  He
is in 6th grade.  This year, after the learning the Davis Orientation
technique, he reads for pleasure; he has been recommended and accepted into
the school's gifted program; when the class breaks into groups for literature
reading, he is placed to read more advanced books with a group of  7th
graders; and he is sociable and now very highly regarded by his classmates,
as well as his teacher.  

There is extended discussion of this book under the "Homeschooling" forum,
under "disAbilities" -- the parents writing there are using this technique
with great success.  If you read the Davis book, you may be disappointed in
that it lacks "scientific" evidence or support for the theories propounded.
But, for me (that is, my son), and for many others that I have talked to
since,  this technique WORKS.  

 Subj:  Re:MULTI-SENSORY PHONICS
Date:  94-12-07 03:41:13 EDT
From:  PeterCB55

To: Julia 31528
regarding your concerns about "visual perception" weaknesses observed in your
child with CP. It may be helpful to have someone provide you with a more
thorough evaluation of her actual visual processing skills, before pursuing
various "remedies". General measures of visual perception, (excuse the pun)
often provide only a partial picture of visual processing abilities. For
example you may wish to find out if difficulties are more pronounced with
respect to concrete and familiar images that she can "label" vs. those that
are abstract and lack other familiar cues. In my experience with several
children with CP with visual processing skill deficits, a variety of elements
may interact and contribute to visual perception difficulties, including but
not limited to, visual tracking difficulties, inattention, latencies and lags
in processing visual information, differential skills with respect to
processing concrete vs. abstract information,  visual-symbol association
difficulties, and visual memory problems. I am not certain,but perhap hopeful
that with a more thorough assessment of the functional aspects of her visual
processing skills you could then begin to seek out remediation strategies
that are more suitable to you and your child. This does not necessarily
require extensive assessment; however, I believe that with someone
knoweldgeable in this area, you could more comfortably pursue the question of
what strategy to use. In addition, it is worth pursuing related issues such
as  attention deployment and memory skills in the context of visual
processing abilities because it may be that these differentially contribute
to you child's difficulties. Understanding how this plays out, can give you
some ideas; however again, a little bit of reasonably focused assessment work
by someone knowledgeable in this area may be of help to you. 

PeterCB55
Subj:  Re:MULTI-SENSORY PHONICS
Date:  94-12-07 23:05:41 EDT
From:  Julia31528

PeterCB55,
Wow, thanks for all the information.  Very interesting.  How would you go
about finding someone knowledgable in testing for the things you mention?
Are you a professional in the field, by the way?

JuliaSubj:  Re:MULTI-SENSORY PHONICS
Date:  94-12-11 09:17:06 EDT
From:  PeterCB55

To: Julia31528
Yes, I am a father of a child with special needs and I work in the area of
pediatric psychology. There are a variety of others who work with and can
provide helpful assessment services to children with visual processing and
memory concerns. A partial listing might include special education/resource
specialists, child psychologists, and some educational  and pediatric
neuropsychologists. There are likely others who could provide these types of
services, and SusanS29 (the host for this bulliten board) or others may be
able to help you/us with other ideas here. However, one important issue is
locating someone in your area who has experience assessing young children
with CP and visual processing/memory concerns. You might check to see if
there is a local parent support organization through which you could obtain
referrals,or check with the psychology staff at a local childrens hospital,or
even the early childhood special education program in your school district
for ideas.

PeterCB55

Subj:  Re:MULTI-SENSORY PHONICS
Date:  94-12-18 01:54:50 EDT
From:  NICTY

I HAVE HAD MY CHILD TESTED BY LINDA-MOD BELL AND WILL BE STARTING MY CHILD
WITH THEM IN JAN.  IS THERE ANYONE OUT THERE THAT HAD BAD SUCCESS WITH THEM.
I DON'T WANT TO PLAY AROUND WITH THIS I AM WILLING TO PAY NOW RATHER THAN HE
PAY LATER.  BUT I STILL WONDER IF I AM MAKING THE RIGHT DECISION.  ALSO HIS
OPTICIAN WANTS TO START EYE TRACKING EXERCISES NOW TO GO ALONG WITH L-M-B.
DOES ANYONE KNOW IF EYE EXCERISES HELP WITH DYS.  HE IS 8 AND BEGINNING TO
FEEL THE PRESSURE OF LAGGING BEHIND THE OTHERS IN READING.  THANKS NICTYSubj:
Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  94-12-28 23:06:09 EDT
From:  SPeter9366

I have two children who have been taught with the Wilson and or Stevenson
methods, with a great deal of success.  They are alternative programs that
can be requested by the parent.  the main problem in some school districts is
finding a teacher trained in either method.  Last year in 2nd grade my
daughter went from a non reader to reading after being taught by the
Stevenson method.  This year there is no progress so I am fighting to have
her taught by the same or a similar method.  Does anyone know how these
methods compare to Reading Recovery?  SPeter 9366Subj:  Re:School
roadblocks-HELP!
Date:  95-01-04 15:23:03 EDT
From:  CATHGR8

I sent a letter requesting a new IEP for my daughter.  Today, I got a call
from the psychologist.  She says since my daughter was "committeed in " to
RSP last year (before her ADD was treated), I don't have the rights conferred
by IDEA.  She says since she tested then at low average IQ, and they don't do
another IQ test for three years, there was not enough deviation in her test
scores to say she is learning disabled, or to warrant further help than she's
getting.  Her math is now at grade level, but her reading is now second grade
6 months, as opposed to second grade two months when tested in September '93.
They won't give her individual remediation, even though her progress is
minimal with the help she's getting.( She had already tested privately as
having auditory processing and discrimination problems but in Sept. '93 her
reading was "only" a year behind, so they suggested ADD). 
      I said, if that's true, then I must have accomodations from her
teacher.  They agreed to meet on that issue on Friday.
     What's going on here? I feel like I'm getting the runaround, and I'm
thinking I should not meet with them unless I have an advocate with me. (I'm
a widow, and I feel really inadequate when I face them all on my own, that's
for sure). Aren't they basically saying they think she's just not smart,( at
least until they retest her IQ in 2 years with medication,) so I should just
expect her to be unable to read at grade level?  Do I get her privately
tested or what? And how do I get them to pay? And is this meeting an IEP
meeting? ANy advice would be greatly appreciated!Subj:  Re:School
roadblocks-HELP!
Date:  95-01-04 19:54:46 EDT
From:  SusanS29

     You're not getting a run-around on IDEA. Each state can set its own
standards regarding how low a child has to perform before giving services.
Some states take the child's presumed intelligence into account and some
don't. If your state does, then her achievement will be compared to her
presumed IQ and not her grade placement.

       However, if you have a *solid* diagnosis of ADD, she is entitled to
assistance for the things the ADD interferes with. That might or might not be
reading, or keeping her desk organized, or getting materials to and from
school, or a host of other issues.Subj:  Re:DYSLEXIA
Date:  95-01-23 19:41:02 EDT
From:  Cherie680

James, My sons work for a boarding school, North American Wilderness Academy
(NAWA) which you might want to consider for your son. NAWA uses experiential
(hands-0n) education which works well for students with ADD and/or dyslexia.
At NAWA each subject is taught in a way where the student is actively
involved in what he is learning. There are two programs - Academy USA which
travels around the US and Mexico and the Calif. Academy which is a boarding
school in northern CA. Along with the academics, students learn canoeing,
backpacking, cross coulntry skiing, climbing, caving and more. The teacher to
student ratio is 1:4 which also aids in the learning experience. If you would
like more information, you can call 1-800-358-6292.

Subj:  Alphabetic Phonics
Date:  95-02-15 17:08:38 EDT
From:  DEBHEX

My son is in a program for Alphabetic Phonics at school and also twice a week
with after school tutoring.  The improvement you see wont be overnight by any
means.  He's in 2nd grade and the program is really sucess oriented.  As he
becomes successful wtih the work given he tends to take more risks in trying
to read as well in other subjects.  We are very pleased with the program and
his progress so far.Subj:  Dyslexia
Date:  95-02-25 16:52:05 EDT
From:  P R COOK

Where does Project Read-The Language Circle compare with other
multisensory approaches.  The Association Method has also been shown
to be quite successful.  Any thoughts? PRCOOKSubj:  TREYS TOY
Date:  95-03-05 22:40:50 EDT
From:  ROSEWOOS

I saw your message.  I also live in NC.  I was wondering were you are from.
There is no profile on you.  I live in Leland, NC.  Where do you?  Did you
get the help you need from your childs school?  I have had a lot of problems.
My child I feel is Dyslexia.  I am going to try and find some place to test
her.  Write back and let me know any information you have that can help.  As
parents we all have to help our kids.

thanks 

RosewoosSubj:  Re:TREYS TOY
Date:  95-03-29 00:58:18 EDT
From:  Keldonia

Texas passed HB 157 a law mandating services to kids with Dyslexia. They
failed to attach $ to this bill and few districts responded. A strong group
of parents pushed to set up the model program in Baytown, Texas    Goose
Creek ISD   the school board approved almost $30,000 to fund this program tha
serves  elementary through 12th gradesSubj:  Florida Special Ed Funding Cuts
Date:  95-03-29 01:59:54 EDT
From:  ALStark

Florida Special Education Funding Cuts

	The LEARNING DISABILITIES ASSOCIATION of FLORIDA has received information
regarding a proposed means of reducing education dollars by limiting the
funds available to the three largest categorical programs in the State's
Special Education program:  SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITIES, GIFTED, AND
EMOTIONALLY HANDICAPPED.  The smaller and thereby less costly categories will
not be affected.  This discriminatory proposal is expected to be finalized
before the beginning of next week by the Education Appropriations
Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee of the Florida
Legislature.  The comparable Subcommittee of the Florida Senate is expected
to produce its own version of the same proposal, but details are not as yet
known.
	The House Subcommittee's proposal would set a cap for the monies available
to these three categorical programs irrespective of the numbers of children
who are eligible for placement in these categorical programs.  (Federal
funding, a small percentage of the cost of these programs, is determined by
an annual official child count.)  This cap would be determined by averaging
the costs of these programs, and allocating no more than this average to any
one school district.  Of course, a district would be allocated less than this
average, if its needs were less than average.  In a state whose numbrs of
students eligible for, and in need of, SLD, EH, and gifted special education
show significant annual increases (due to an increase in population and the
coming of school age by many crack babies), this funding cap will leave many
children in need of services (especially in the highly populated districts)
either stifling in the heat, or out in the cold.  There will be 2 ways of
dealing with the lack of sufficient funds:  pack children into special ed
classes of 40 or more students, or leave most of them in the regular ed
classroom with no services at all!  Neither of these scenarios is
appropriate, although they would still be free.  Forget the notion of
maximizing potential.
	If this proposal seems as discriminatory to you as it does to those of us in
LDAF, if you are the parent or guardian of an SLD, EH, or gifted/talented
child (ADD/ADHD children will also be affected), or, if you just care about
kids getting the best education possible, call your State Representative and
express your concerns.  Also call members of the Education Appropriations
Subcommittee.  These include Representatives Arnold from Fort Myers, Garcia
from Miami, Davis from Tampa, and Constantine from Altamonte Springs.
CALL NOW!!!
Subj:  Dyslexia????Help?
Date:  95-04-10 23:25:49 EDT
From:  Jammerdee

My son was diagnosed with a language based LD, in 2nd grade.  Now in 7th and
13 yrs old.  Reading at 4.5 grade level.  I always asked if this could be
dyslexia as he would transpose sometimes.  Always had remedial reading except
this year school doesn't have it.  Been fighting like mad for it  UGHH.  Has
visual, auditory, sequential problems, comprehension.  He will not read to me
unless we have a battle about it.  Hates to read.  It obviously it too
diffcult.  When he does read I notice he sometimes tranposes words or runs
them together.  His books are now being put on tape.  Psychologist said for
the rest of his school career.  If he does have dyslexia will this ever help
him or is this just to get him by?? Also psychologist told me he retains only
the first 4 or 5 letters of words so that larger words would always be harder
for him.
 Subj:  Dyslexia textbook
Date:  95-04-26 02:33:57 EDT
From:  SCHOON6198

Subj:  Excellant Dyslexia Support book
Date:  95-04-22 03:26:38 EDT
From:  SCHOON6198

For anyone needing basic to advanced information about dsylexia I would
recommend the book "The Dyslexic Scholar" by Kathleen Nosek. It is published
by Taylor Publishing Company out of Dallas, Texas. My son is a 9 year old
dsylexic and in a 'multiage' classroom in the Portland, Oregon public school
system. I have read about a dozen books and untold numbers of articles about
dyslexia and this book sums up the general trends in what dsylexia is, the
federal and state laws that deal with dsylexia, how to go about setting up an
IEP, and numerous contacts for more information. By no means does it solve
the problem (the Portland Public School system refuses to use the word
dyslexia) but it will give the parent new to game and the parent that is a
black and blue veteran of fighting the system plenty of good material. 
If their are any other parents in the Portland Public School system fighting
for their kids with dyslexia please e-mail me and give me some pointers,
please.
Good Luck everyone,
Schoon6198Subj:  Dyslexics in MA
Date:  95-06-02 14:49:31 EDT
From:  DLights

Hi, I am in need of advise and direction.  My 7 year old is ADHD/Dyslexic and
we are in a school system in Mass. that has a history of failing to recognize
Dyslexia.  He is the only one of 250 students in K-2 that has Dyslexia.
There are no teachers comprehensively trained to teach a Dyslexic.  Are we at
their mercy.  Must we continue to struggle because they say he is doing o.k.?
Isn't he entitled to be taught as a Dyslexic?

Please e-mail.....lets talk!  Thanks,  Dianne and Curtis
DLights@aol.comSubj:  Dyslexic Help
Date:  95-06-04 00:14:18 EDT
From:  Bergmom

My 11 year old son was helped tremendously by working with the Reading
Research Council in Burlingame, CA, and following the program outlined in the
book, "The Gift of Dyslexia" by Ron Davis.  This book should be available in
books or libraries.  If not, you can contact the RRC by sending e-mail to
"AliceDAWP"; they also put out a free newsletter.

Subj:  adult/dyslexia
Date:  95-06-06 22:50:43 EDT
From:  Grettagrmp

i have been reading the filse on dyslexia i am 13 years old and going to
school for special ed. i have dyslexia and add it has been recomend by a
nurologist that i be taught phonics over. ihave have no idea where to begin i
am a terrible speller and it is causeing me great problems in college if you
have any suggestions please E mail me GrettagumpSubj:  Lindamood-Bell
Date:  95-06-28 09:18:35 EDT
From:  D0vebird

Is anyone familiar with this program?  I understand it can help with kids who
have trouble reading and understanding, but it's very expensive and takes a
big chunk of time.Subj:  Re:Lindamood-Bell
Date:  95-06-28 11:48:10 EDT
From:  GZUKO

This is a program from Calf.  There is discussion on it in other boards and
the program it starts with the 
ADD .  A girl on one of the board seemed to be connected with the center that
uses it.  I will try to find the reference if you would like just leave a
message on the board.  ThanksSubj:  New Dyslexia Resource Assn
Date:  95-07-27 01:32:34 EDT
From:  AbilityWP

Announcing the Formation of
Davis Dyslexia Association International

The goal of DDAI is to increase worldwide awareness of: 
what dyslexia and related learning styles are
the perceptual gifts, talents, or potential for genius that accompany
dyslexia
how to correct the learning disability aspects

DDAI will do this through:
membership-sponsored newsletters
publications and books
book reviews and notification of current research
professional and parent workshops
seminars, conferences and symposiums
professional certifications in the Davis procedures
a forum for networking and sharing information
collaboration with educators, authors and researchers
You are invited to join us. Basic Membership includes subscription to The
Dyslexic Reader and 10% discount on books, materials and workshops.
Introductory dues are $50/year or $80/2 years.

For more information, send e-mail to AbilityWP on AOL or call
1-800-729-8990Subj:  New Dyslexic
Date:  95-07-31 22:10:33 EDT
From:  AlecChroma

My daughter was recent tested, and although the educational psychologist
would not give a diagnosis of dyslexia, she indicated she had many
characteristics.  Unfortunately my daughter had a bad experience in first
grade, with a teacher who was rigid and unaccomadating. She has begun with a
wonderful tutor in the Orton-Gilliham approach.  How can I help her deal with
this year ?  How do I approach the teacher and convey our ideas?  Open to any
suggestions.