Multisensory Learning Support and Dyslexia Assessment in Earlwood

Challenges in Learning Reading and Writing

Who does dyslexia affect?

Approximately 1 in 10 individuals are estimated to have dyslexia, with a tendency to run in families. If you have dyslexia, it’s probable that you have a family member who also experiences it or struggles with reading and spelling.

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.

The diagnostic process usually includes discounting other possible causes, such as difficulties with vision and hearing, before embarking on a formal assessment for dyslexia.

Dyslexia Learning Support Earlwood

Dyslexia assessment Earlwood

How would you define dyslexia?

According to information from the US National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke,

Dyslexia is a brain-based type of learning disability that specifically impairs a person’s ability to read. These individuals typically read at levels significantly lower than expected despite having normal intelligence. Although the disorder varies from person to person, common characteristics among people with dyslexia are difficulty with phonological processing (the manipulation of sounds), spelling, and/or rapid visual-verbal responding.

In cases of adult-onset dyslexia, it often arises due to brain injury or in the context of dementia, contrasting with individuals who were not assessed or diagnosed with dyslexia during childhood and adolescence. Dyslexia can be inherited within certain families, and recent studies have revealed specific genes that may predispose individuals to dyslexia.

https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Dyslexia-Information-Page 

In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), dyslexia is recognised as an alternative name for Specific Learning Disorder in Reading by the American Psychiatric Association.

How Does the Multisensory Approach Enhance Learning for Individuals With Dyslexia?

According to the NINDS, the primary emphasis in treating dyslexia should be on addressing the specific learning challenges faced by individuals. Neurosensory’s multisensory approach is endorsed by esteemed organisations like the International Dyslexia Association, the World Health Organization, and leading experts and researchers around the world.

It is built upon the pioneering research conducted by Samuel Orton and Anna Gillingham, who developed effective interventions for dyslexia. The NINDS highlights the importance of customising the approach to target the specific learning challenges faced by individuals with dyslexia. This approach is widely recognised as the Orton-Gillingham approach.

Multisensory dyslexia Earlwood

Multisensory tutoring dyslexia Earlwood

Multisensory Techniques for Effective Dyslexia Tutoring

As discussed above, traditional teaching methods are often insufficient for addressing the needs of students with dyslexia. Multisensory therapy, by contrast, capitalises on the integration of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic modalities to enhance learning outcomes.

Our multisensory approach is carefully crafted to be structured, diagnostic, cumulative, engaging, and creative. By providing one-on-one or small group sessions, we can maintain a high level of attention and engagement while effectively addressing the specific needs of each student.

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

Dyslexia tutoring Earlwood

Dyslexia Therapy and Tutoring Choices

We offer two options when it comes to dyslexia tutoring, ensuring that primary, secondary, and university students and beyond are able to access the support offered by Neurosensory.

Traditional In-Person Dyslexia Therapy/Tutoring

Our in-person tutoring option allows students to engage with their tutor in a controlled learning environment, minimising distractions and maximising focus. Whether they prefer one-on-one sessions or small group settings, we accommodate their needs and comfort levels.

Remote Dyslexia Therapy/Tutoring

The option of online tutoring enables dyslexic students to receive assistance regardless of their geographical location, granting them the flexibility to manage their schedule and commitments. Furthermore, tutors can take advantage of the visual cues provided by seeing the student’s face as they navigate the reading material.

Are you or a loved one in need of learning support following a dyslexia diagnosis? Our team of dyslexia tutors is prepared and eager to provide assistance.

Adult dyslexia assessment Earlwood

Dyslexia Assessments For Both Adults & Children

Neurosensory utilises a well-established battery of psychometric tests that are suitable for individuals of different ages undergoing dyslexia assessment. Upon request, we can provide detailed written assessments. We also offer streamlined screening for educational and vocational placement for those who prefer a more concise evaluation.

Through our screening and assessment, we may identify additional matters that warrant consultation with healthcare professionals, such as paediatricians, psychologists, speech and language pathologists, and occupational therapists .

It is recommended to arrange a hearing and vision check before seeking a dyslexia diagnosis to rule out any other factors that may be impacting reading and spelling comprehension.

Answers to Common Questions

Yes, it is possible, but it depends on the tutor’s experience and familiarity with research-based dyslexia interventions. That is why we use the term ‘educational therapy’ instead of ‘tutoring.’ Not all tutoring services are suitable for individuals with dyslexia or other specific learning disabilities. Some of our students had been receiving tutoring for a long time without significant improvement until they joined our specialised therapeutic program. We provide individualised attention and tailor the approach to address each student’s unique learning needs. Our goal is to help them develop a better understanding of themselves as learners and make meaningful progress.

A significant number of parents reach out to us for dyslexia screening or a comprehensive assessment. Your child’s primary school teacher might express concerns even before you notice any symptoms. We also receive referrals from psychologists, GP’s, paediatricians, or speech pathologists. At Neurosensory, you can schedule dyslexia assessments for children and adults, and if further evaluation is necessary, we can guide you to the right professional.

The following areas are usually considered in forming a diagnosis:

  • Gather a comprehensive history (including medical, developmental, educational, and family background)
  • Explore the individual’s learning strengths and weaknesses
  • Consider what the child’s teacher says, along with test scores supplied for the school

  The diagnosis of dyslexia in children typically involves at least 6 months of targeted instruction in reading skills. However, there is no specific timeframe suggested 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/ASDDysgraphiaDyscalculia, 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.

Achieve growth with a dyslexia tutor

Tutoring dyslexic children often requires a great deal of patience, as they tend to have an avoidance of learning as they feel like failures. Our approach involves a lot of learning through games, which makes it fun and helps to ‘re-train’ the child’s brain and overcome these barriers.

On the contrary, dyslexic adults are usually eager to learn, improve, and actively involved in the process of ‘re-training’ their brains.

The development of reading, writing, and maths skills in individuals with dyslexia is influenced by factors such as the type and severity of dyslexia, as well as the level of practice they engage in.

Dyslexia Tutor Earlwood

Accessing NDIS Support for Dyslexia

Dyslexia and other specific learning disorders are generally not eligible for NDIS funding unless other conditions such as Autism or Intellectual Delay are present. Unfortunately, this leaves many people with it stretched or unable to access affordable remediation. Limited help is available through mainstream educational institutions such as schools and tertiary providers, and the occasional general program may be in place. However, available programs often lack sufficient targeting, flexibility and duration to address 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 aims to help people who cannot afford necessary remediation for dyslexia and related conditions. It is a charity with fully deductible tax and gift status, and while funds for it are presently limited, we will update you when it is in a position to help.

Are you ready to explore the possibilities of multisensory learning?

If you’re in need of dyslexia remediation, you’ve come to the right place. At Neurosensory, we are deeply committed to helping individuals of all ages overcome the learning obstacles presented by dyslexia. Our experienced MSL therapists and tutors will create a personalised program tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you can achieve your academic goals and receive the necessary support for the future.

Call to Book an Appointment

Request a Call Back

Contact Us Call Today