Identifying Dyslexia and Why it Matters with Dr Helen Ross

The SENDcast

In today’s podcast we delve into the profound mental health effects of dyslexia and the crucial need to address them. Dyslexia not only presents self-esteem challenges but also carries significant implications for individuals' overall well-being. However, there are numerous ways to mitigate the detrimental effects of dyslexia, especially when it is openly discussed and destigmatised.

Once again, we are joined by Dr. Helen Ross, who shares her insights on 'Identifying Dyslexia and Why it Matters'. In our conversation, Helen emphasises the importance of screening to identify dyslexia, enabling individuals to better understand themselves and fostering a supportive environment where teachers can comprehend their needs. By making necessary adjustments in the classroom and adopting a holistic approach, we can empower individuals with dyslexia to thrive.

“If kids don't understand why they do things in a certain way, or don't do things in a certain way, that's when that ‘I'm stupid’ thought process happens with them.”

Dr Helen Ross

By helping children understand why they may approach certain tasks differently or struggle with specific areas, we can prevent the detrimental thought process that often leads to feelings of inadequacy and self-judgement.

About Dr Helen Ross

Dr Helen Ross is a fully qualified special needs teacher and former SENCO, working as an independent educational research consultant, specialist assessor and SEND expert. Helen is a Trustee of the British Dyslexia Association, Chair of the Wiltshire Dyslexia Association and is on the board of the US, not-for profit National Coalition of Independent Scholars. She has consulted for the British Dyslexia Association, The Committee for Science and Technology (part of the UK Government), and Wiltshire Local Authority. She also works internationally with various third sector and commercial organisations with evaluation, consultancy and resource development. Helen’s research explores stakeholder experiences of SEND provision within the mainstream education sector, focussing on the empowerment of those supporting young people, to help them to take ownership of their own learning. She uses her findings from research to inform her own practice and to support other practitioner in their own work, through CPD webinars and live sessions.

Contact Helen

[e-mail]

https://x.com/drhelenross

helensplace.co.uk/

Useful Links

British Dyslexia Association website

Succeed With Dyslexia

• B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk
• Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast
• Email Dale – [e-mail]
• Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe

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