Beyond the Bear by Dan Bigley

Beyond the Bear is a book that adults or young people with dyslexia should read.  When they think life is tough, this guys life will put things into perspective.  A lot of it reminded me of the strategies that dyslexic students discover, test and use in their academic careers.

Here is my review on this book on Amazon:

I want to carry cases of these books around and hand them out to people who are negative and complain about their lives that are NOT hard.  This book is an easy to read, heart warming lesson on how to live your life - with humility, humor and love.  A nurse who worked with Dan shortly after the attack called him an inspiration -- she had no idea how truly inspirational he would become in the years following the mauling.  Thank you to Dan for telling this compelling and moving story.

Need an Ed Therapist

Here is a great resource to find an education therapist:

 http://aetonline.org/

Trying to explain the tip of the dyslexic iceberg

This is a great article which tries to give you and idea of some of the struggles of a dyslexic:  http://www.mamasagainstdrama.com/2013/03/its-more-than-a-twister-auntie-em/

Accomodations for SAT

For those who have kids starting to think about college, here are some tips:

Make sure you have up to date testing as you will need it to get accommodations for the SAT and/or ACT.

Consider which test - the SAT or the ACT is best for your child's learning differences

Consider what accommodations you want for SAT/ACT testing:

•  extra time

• a reader

• use of a computer

• use of a calculator 

• taking the test at your school with a counselor instead of in a giant auditorium with tons of other kids

Start early considering what you need and apply early as it take a little longer to apply and get the approval

Personal Qualities and Dyslexia

Being the parent of two kids with dyslexia has allowed me to relax a little.....I know that sounds weird but it is true.  I am way more relaxed about school work, grades and tests then I ever imagined I could be.  The reason is I see that stressing about it is a losing battle - dyslexic kids are NOT made to fit the normal mold of taking tests and getting good grades.  So I have had to completely shift my thinking and just be sure that they are learning.  And the other thing is it has allowed me to focus on their other qualities which are just as -or more important - then the ability to take a test.  Consider this:

Personal Qualities NOT Measured by Tests

Creativity

Resilience

Motivation

Curiosity

Persistance

Humor

Endurance

Reliabilty

Enthusiasm

Civic-mindedness

Self-awareness

Self-discipline

Empathy

Leadership

Courage

Compassion

Spontaneity

Humility

I would argue that these qualities are much more important for long term success than than speed at which you recall 5 x 9!