Multisensory Learning Support and Dyslexia Assessment in Clemton Park
Difficulties in Reading and Writing Learning
Whom can dyslexia affect?
It’s estimated that around one in 10 people have dyslexia. It tends to run in families – if you have dyslexia, it’s likely that you have a family member who also has it or who has other reading and spelling problems.
Dyslexia is typically diagnosed in primary school when problems with reading and writing first become apparent. However, many people are diagnosed later on – some not even until adulthood. Research has shown that it’s more common in boys than girls.
What does dyslexia refer to?
According to information from the US National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke,
Dyslexia, a learning disability affecting reading skills, arises from brain-based factors. Despite normal intelligence, individuals with dyslexia often read below expected levels. Symptoms can vary, but common features include challenges with phonological processing (sound manipulation), spelling, and rapid visual-verbal response.
Adults who develop dyslexia often experience it as a consequence of brain injury or within the context of dementia. This differs from individuals who had dyslexia but remained unidentified during childhood and adolescence. Dyslexia can have a hereditary component, and recent research has identified several genes that may contribute to its development.
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Dyslexia-Information-Page
Specific Learning Disorder in Reading, also known as dyslexia, is acknowledged by the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
How Does the Multisensory Approach Benefit Individuals With Dyslexia?
The NINDS states that the central focus of dyslexia treatment should be addressing the specific learning difficulties experienced by individuals. Neurosensory’s multisensory approach is supported by the International Dyslexia Association, the World Health Organization, and respected practitioners and researchers internationally.
It is founded on the groundbreaking research of Samuel Orton and Anna Gillingham, who developed effective interventions for dyslexia. The NINDS highlights the importance of individualising the approach to address the specific learning challenges of individuals with dyslexia. This approach is commonly referred to as the Orton-Gillingham approach.
Dyslexia Tutoring with a Multisensory Approach
As explained above, standard teaching methods as employed by many tutors will not be effective for students with dyslexia. Multisensory therapy is based on integrating learning through the sight/visual, sound/auditory, and touch/movement/kinesthetic senses.
Our multisensory approach is structured, diagnostic, cumulative, engaging, and creative. One-on-one or small group sessions help ensure that maximum attention and engagement are maintained and that the needs of each student are addressed effectively.
How do our MSL therapists and practitioners support students with dyslexia?
We:
- Use an MSL/ Orton-Gillingham approach to ensure that students have a firm grasp of the connection between speech sounds, reading and spelling
- Recognise the importance of oral language for literacy
- Promote efficient handwriting but understand that technology can be a tremendous help
- Develop reading and writing from basic words to complex multisyllable words including syllable division and word building eg ba/by , in/de/pen/dent, direct-directly, direction
- Understand that older students need to develop essay writing techniques to cope with their academic demands, while giving attention to basic spelling and writing conventions
- Ask students to read aloud while tracing the words with their index finger
- Give students immediate and constructive feedback
- Are sensitive to a student becoming tired because our approach engages students continually
Available Options for Dyslexia Therapy and Tutoring
At Neurosensory, we provide two options for dyslexia tutoring, ensuring that students at the primary, secondary, and university levels, as well as beyond, can access the support they need.
In-Person Dyslexia Therapy/Tutoring
With in-person tutoring, students will meet with their tutor in a controlled learning environment that provides fewer distractions. Sessions can be held one-on-one or in small groups, depending on the needs and comfort levels of the student.
Virtual Dyslexia Therapy/Tutoring
Online tutoring offers dyslexic students the convenience of accessing support remotely, allowing them to work around their schedule and commitments. This flexibility is particularly beneficial when a carer is unwell or has work commitments, as short periods of online sessions can be accommodated. Additionally, tutors can observe the student’s facial expressions and engagement while working with the reading material.
Are you or a loved one seeking learning assistance after being diagnosed with dyslexia? Our experienced dyslexia tutors are available and ready to offer their support.
Dyslexia Assessments For Both Adults & Children
When conducting dyslexia assessments, Neurosensory employs a recognised set of psychometric tests that are appropriate for the age of the individual. Upon request, we provide comprehensive written assessments. We also offer streamlined screening options for educational and vocational placement, catering to those who prefer a more focused evaluation.
Our screening and assessment process may also uncover other issues that may necessitate referral to healthcare professionals, including paediatricians, psychologists, speech and language pathologists, and occupational therapists .
Before seeking a dyslexia diagnosis, it is advisable to arrange for a hearing and vision check to rule out any other underlying issues that could be influencing reading and spelling comprehension.
Answers to Common Questions
Certainly, provided that the tutor has the necessary experience and knowledge of evidence-based dyslexia interventions. This is why we prefer the term ‘educational therapy’ over ‘tutoring.’ Generic tutoring services may not be effective for individuals with dyslexia or other specific learning disabilities. Many of our students had been attending tutoring for an extended period with limited improvement until they enrolled in our targeted therapeutic program. We offer personalised attention and the opportunity to address the specific learning needs of each student. Our aim is to help them gain a deeper understanding of themselves as learners and make meaningful progress.
Many of our parents contact our services for dyslexia screening or a formal assessment. Your child’s primary school teacher may raise their concerns with you before you’ve noticed any symptoms. Other people have been referred to our services by psychologists, GP’s, paediatricians or speech pathologists. You can book child or adult dyslexia assessments with us at Neurosensory, and we can refer you to an appropriate provider if additional assessment is required.
The following areas are usually considered in forming a diagnosis:
- Assess the individual’s background through a comprehensive history (including medical, developmental, educational, and family aspects)
- Evaluate the learning capabilities and limitations of the individual
- Consider what the child’s teacher says, along with test scores supplied for the school
Typically, a minimum of 6 months of targeted instruction in reading skills is necessary before diagnosing dyslexia in children. However, there is no specific time frame recommended for adults.
Diagnosis of dyslexia in primary aged children usually occurs within the first two years of school, as this is the period when they begin learning to read. However, there are cases where children are diagnosed before they develop reading skills. Moreover, some individuals may not receive a diagnosis until adolescence or adulthood, as they may have successfully masked their symptoms during their earlier years.
Certain warning signs of dyslexia may include delayed speech, trouble pronouncing certain words, challenges in learning the alphabet, difficulty in writing their own name, frequent errors while reading, slow and expressionless reading, avoidance of reading tasks, struggles in comprehending written material, and a limited vocabulary.
Keep in mind that some people have many signs of dyslexia, whereas others only have a few.
The Orton-Gillingham multisensory approach helps those with: ADD/ADHD (although not a formal learning disorder) Autism/ASD, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, Reading remediation (students without a learning disorder), Generalised learning disorders, Maths, and ESL.
Based in Campsie, we are just around the corner from Belfield, Belmore, Ashbury, Canterbury, Croydon Park, Clemton Park, Earlwood, Ashfield and Hurlstone Park.
See improvement with a dyslexia tutor
Teaching dyslexic children often demand significant patience, as they often exhibit avoidance behaviours due to feelings of failure. Our approach incorporates learning through games, making it enjoyable and aiding in the retraining of the child’s brain to overcome these obstacles.
On the contrary, dyslexic adults are usually eager to learn, improve, and actively involved in the process of ‘re-training’ their brains.
The progress in an individual’s reading, writing, and maths skills will vary depending on the type and severity of dyslexia, as well as the amount of practice they dedicate.
Can Dyslexia Qualify for NDIS Funding?
It’s important to note that dyslexia and other specific learning disorders are generally not eligible for NDIS funding unless accompanied by conditions such as Autism or Intellectual Delay. This limitation often leaves individuals with dyslexia facing challenges in accessing affordable remediation. While some assistance may be available through mainstream educational institutions and general programs, these resources often lack the required focus, flexibility, and duration to adequately meet the individual needs of people with dyslexia.
If you require assistance with your NDIS or other funding applications, Neurosensory is here to help.
The Australian Dyslexia Foundation is a charitable organisation that aims to support individuals who are unable to afford necessary dyslexia remediation. It has fully deductible tax and gift status, and although funding is currently limited, updates will be provided on its ability to assist.
Are you eager to discover the potential of multisensory learning?
If you’re seeking dyslexia remediation, you’ve found the right resource. At Neurosensory, we are dedicated to assisting both children and adults in overcoming the learning challenges associated with dyslexia. Our team of MSL therapists and tutors will customise a program to meet your specific needs, ensuring that you can achieve your academic goals and receive the support you need moving forward.