Learning a language is an enriching journey that opens doors to new cultures, opportunities and connections. However, for people with dyslexia, the road to mastering a new language can present unique challenges. Dyslexia can have a major impact on the effectiveness of traditional language learning methods.
Learning under hypnosis is at the heart of Heart of Language and can benefit people with dyslexia when learning a language. Indeed, hypnosis can complement traditional language learning strategies and provide a supportive environment for improved focus, concentration and self-confidence. Moreover, Heart of Language’s method focuses on speaking the language. Below, we explore the symptoms and characteristics of dyslexia and why Heart of Language’s speaking-focused approach offers huge benefits for people with dyslexia.
What is dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a learning disability that affects a person’s ability to read, write, spell and sometimes speak. It is characterised by problems with accurate and fluent word recognition and impaired spelling and decoding skills. Dyslexia is a lifelong condition, but with the right support and guidance, people with dyslexia can learn to overcome their difficulties and achieve success in academic, professional and personal endeavours.
How do you recognise dyslexia?
Although dyslexia obviously does not affect intelligence, it can impair skills related to reading, writing and spelling. Common symptoms and features of dyslexia are:
- Spelling problems: Dyslexia can manifest as reduced spelling skills, as people may have difficulty remembering the correct order of letters in words.
- Lower reading speed: Reading can be a difficult task, requiring a lot of effort and time to process written information.
- Difficulty with phonological awareness: People with dyslexia may have difficulty recognising and manipulating the sounds in words, making it challenging to decode written language.
- Challenges with working memory: Dyslexia can affect working memory, making it difficult to remember and process information quickly.
Do you recognise yourself in these symptoms? Then read on to find out how Heart of Language’s method suits you and why so many people with dyslexia have already chosen Heart of Language!
Dyslexia and Heart of Language
Traditional approaches to language learning lean heavily on reading and writing activities, which can pose significant obstacles for people with dyslexia. However, Heart of Language’s speaking-focused method prioritises oral communication and auditory processing, which offers several advantages:
- People with dyslexia often excel in verbal communication and auditory processing. By focusing on speaking, language students can capitalise on their strengths and build confidence in their abilities.
- Speech-based methods involve frequent exposure to spoken language, which can improve phonological awareness. This basic skill is essential for both reading and pronunciation.
- Oral communication enables learners to participate in real-life conversations, which provides a valuable context for language comprehension and retention. This contextual learning approach can be especially beneficial for people with dyslexia, who may have difficulty with abstract concepts on paper.
- For many people with dyslexia, the pressure associated with reading and writing tasks can cause anxiety and hinder learning. Speech-focused methods create a more relaxed and inclusive learning environment, minimising anxiety and promoting active participation.
By embracing speech-focused methods, people with dyslexia can overcome barriers and reach their full potential. Sign up now for a trial lesson at Heart of Language!
Common font for dyslexia
Did you know that it is recommended to use a sans serif font (such as Arial or Calibri, 12 point) for people with dyslexia? It also seems to help to leave a little more space between lines of text.
When can an examination for dyslexia take place?
From the middle of group 4, it is possible to have an examination for dyslexia. Because before an examination takes place, it must be demonstrated that there is a serious and persistent reading and/or spelling problem. This requires three moments of measurement. If adequate help is provided with hardly any results and the pupil scores weakly on the three measuring moments, the pupil can in principle be registered for dyslexia testing.
If, as an adult, you want certainty as to whether you have dyslexia, it is possible to have this examined by an expert remedial educationalist or psychologist.