The Business of Education

Episode 58 | Rebecca Bush on Dyslexia Demystified: Myths and Realities

Kyle Wallgren Season 1 Episode 58

Summary

In this episode, Kyle Wallgren speaks with Rebecca Bush, a dyslexia and literacy specialist, about her journey into education and the importance of addressing literacy challenges. They discuss common misconceptions about dyslexia, effective strategies for identifying and supporting struggling readers, and the significance of multisensory instruction. The conversation also touches on the impact of dyslexia on adults, the connection between spelling and dyslexia, and the complexities of teaching reading across different languages. Rebecca emphasizes the need for good instruction and the role of engagement in fostering a love for reading among children.

Takeaways

Literacy challenges can be generational and often overlooked.
Dyslexia is not related to intelligence or effort.
Parents should trust their instincts when it comes to their child's literacy.
Good instruction is universal, regardless of language.
Multisensory instruction can significantly aid struggling readers.
Engagement is crucial for motivating children to read.
Dyslexia affects both children and adults, and resources are available.
Spelling difficulties can be linked to dyslexia but are not the same.
Understanding the complexities of English spelling can aid literacy.
Networking and community support are vital in the education field.

Sound Bites

"I wanted to be the person that broke that cycle."
"Kids want to read, they want to feel accomplished."
"Dyslexia has nothing to do with how smart you are."
"Dyslexia is a worldwide phenomenon."
"Trust your gut, that parent instinct is strong."
"The way we teach every kid to read is actually the same."
"Dyslexia does not go away, you don't outgrow it."
"Learning how to read changes the trajectory of your life."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Literacy and Dyslexia

01:34 Rebecca's Journey into Education

06:21 Understanding Dyslexia: Myths and Misconceptions

10:54 Identifying Dyslexia in Children

15:14 Evidence-Based Approaches to Literacy

19:25 Multisensory Instruction Techniques

22:39 Engagement Strategies for Struggling Readers

25:09 Dyslexia in Adults: Challenges and Resources

30:13 Spelling and Dyslexia: The Connection

32:01 Dyslexia Across Languages

34:50 The Complexity of English Spelling

36:01 Networking and Community in Education

About Rebecca

Linkedin: Rebecca Bush

Connect with Rebecca

Website: https://www.leadchanges.com/

Facebook: facebook.com/literacyleadchanges/

Instagram: @rebecca_dyslexiaspecialist

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