Learn how to check that a dyslexic child has understood instructions and can complete a task.
Dyslexia can affect children in many different ways. It is an issue with how the brain processes information. The child may struggle to:
learn to write
remember facts
understand verbal information
Getting a dyslexic child to repeat back instructions they have heard helps them. This repetition makes the child more likely to remember and understand the instructions.
Learn how the Dyslexic Mum struggled to get her dyslexic child to follow instructions and how she came up with an idea to help:
“Getting my child to do anything was a struggle. Frustrated, I would find myself saying things like “Do I have to keep asking you to pick your toys up?” or “How many times do I have to tell you to stop?”. I felt like she did not listen to me or did not want to follow instructions.
When my child started to read and write, it became clearer that like me, she was dyslexic. I started to realise that maybe she was not ignoring me. Maybe she did not understand what she was being asked to do. To help my little girl understand instructions, I started to get her to say them back to me. Use this idea to help your dyslexic child too.”
Watch the clickable video, ‘Hear instructions’ below. Where the Dyslexic Mum demonstrates how to check a child has understood instructions:
Follow the top tips from the Dyslexic Mum below:
Say it Back – Check the dyslexic child has understood your instructions, by getting them to say it back to you. This helps show that they have heard you correctly.
Do they Understand – Then ask them, “Do you understand what you need to do?” If they are unsure, you can talk to them about what they need to do. Try showing them objects, pictures, do a demonstration. The dyslexic brain works better by seeing things than by hearing words.
Simple Task – At first, practise following verbal instructions with the child. By asking them to do simple tasks or to answer simple questions. This will help the child become more comfortable with asking follow-up questions. Knowing it is ok not to understand and to ask for more help if needed.
Want this activity ready to use?
The Hear Instructions card gives you ready-made steps on the front and a picture activity for your child on the back. Everything is in one place. It’s one of 56 ten-minute activities in the Mooki Cards deck.
Short, practical ideas for children with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyscalculia, speech and language needs or anxiety. You’ll also hear about new blog posts and free offers first. Unsubscribe at any time.
