Oban mum launches dyslexia support group
An Oban mum is celebrating the strength of her dyslexic son and is looking for like-minded people to follow suit.
Anna Smith decided to learn more about dyslexia and set up a Dyslexia Support Group after her 11-year-old son Rufus said to her: ‘I’m just stupid, mum.’
The group is for parents and care providers of primary four to S3 children who have already been diagnosed with the condition, which causes problems with reading, writing and learning.
Far from being ‘stupid’, Rufus shows exceptional ability in the many tasks he undertakes. It is the mainstream subjects he struggles with and Anna is hoping that, with the right help and encouragement, he and others like him can find their strengths and achieve success.
‘Rufus does not enjoy reading and it is a daily battle to get him to read his homework book – a battle which usually results in both of us getting stressed and upset,’ she said.
‘He can make incredible Lego models but confuses fives and sevens when he writes. He can type an incredibly imaginative story but has hand-writing that is difficult to read, and he can remember small details from a holiday we took years ago but forgets how to read the time on a clock face.
‘Everyone with dyslexia is different but if we can share what works – progress and concerns in parallel with the good support already being offered in school – it can only mean a better outcome for our children.’
Dyslexia is the most common cause of reading and writing difficulties. At least one in 10, that’s half a million people in Scotland, have dyslexia. It is thought to be passed on through families and is a result of neurological differences in the brain.
Now that he has been diagnosed, Park Primary School pupil Rufus admits he is much more accepting of his condition and is delighted that his mum is now looking to help others.
‘I think it’s a great thing she is doing,’ he told us.
‘It is really important that people know more about dyslexia and how it make some things people take for granted that bit more difficult for us.’
People with dyslexia often excel in certain areas such a creative thinking, special awareness or the arts, proven by many famous dyslexics such as Einstein, Van Gogh, Walt Disney, Steven Spielberg, Richard Branson, Jamie Oliver and Alan Sugar.
Anna hopes that by bringing parents and carers together, they can share tips on how to support and encourage their children, which can complement the support they receive at school.
‘Dyslexic pupils are usually bright but struggle to learn in the standard classroom set-up,’ she added. ‘Being a pupil with dyslexia can be challenging, but a completely different approach to learning could help them achieve their potential.’
If parents suspect their child has dyslexia, their first point of contact should be the school so assessments can be undertaken.
Anna wants the group to meet once a term. For more information, text Anna on 07769 322922 or visit the Oban Dyslexia Supporters’ Group Facebook page.