When Learning to Read Feels Harder Than It Should

Dyslexia Action Month • Part 2 of 4

“My child loves being read to, but reading independently is such a struggle.”

That is a concern worth exploring. Loving stories and finding printed words difficult can exist side by side.

Reading development needs to feel joyful, fun and encouraging and that's exactly what we do here at My Learning Farm

In kindergarten and the early elementary years, possible signs of dyslexia include persistent difficulty connecting letters with sounds, blending sounds into words, or sounding out simple words after those skills have been taught. A child may guess from a picture instead of using the letters, or begin avoiding reading because it feels so hard.

These difficulties deserve attention, but they do not automatically mean dyslexia. We need to understand the child’s skills, instruction, and progress.

Your action this week: Ask how reading is being taught.

Meet with your child’s teacher and ask:

• How are letter sounds and blending taught?

• What happens when my child encounters an unfamiliar word?

• Which specific reading skills are difficult right now?

• What additional instruction is being provided?

• How will we measure whether it is helping?

You do not need to arrive with all the answers. Bring your questions, a few examples, and a willingness to work together.

At home, keep reading aloud for connection and enjoyment. I want children to keep experiencing the wonderful places books can take them while adults work on understanding their reading needs.

At My Learning Farm, I use Orton-Gillingham–based structured literacy: direct, carefully sequenced instruction that helps students build reading and spelling skills step by step.

If you are unsure where to begin, contact My Learning Farm to discuss your concerns and whether an academic assessment would be a useful next step.

Your child deserves support that begins with understanding.