Dyslexic teenager

[Anonymous]

Anyone else have a dyslexic teen who has begun calling themselves dumb/stupid as their peers track into more accelerated classes or finish their homework quicker? My DS is also comparing himself to his non-dyslexic brother, who breezes through school. On the one hand, I am trying to assure DS that he is in no way dumb. At the same time, there is no mistaking that school is easier for some kids, and now he's seeing it firsthand as kids split into diff classes, and I can't deny that to him - yeah, his peers are doing AP. He has plenty of educational support; I'm more worried about his self-esteem. He also wants to know "why" he is dyslexic since nobody in our family is. This only began coming up with the start of school this year (high school) and I am really struggling with how to buoy him.

[Anonymous]

I suggest you post this is special needs forum, there are lots of BTDT parents there.

[Anonymous]

Encourage your kid to do activities they are good at. Sports, arts, music etc. It's essential for self-esteem. But also, with a solid IEP, they should be able to access the academics of their peer. It's an uphill battle for sure.

[Anonymous]

You really have to lean into the concept of multiple intelligences. And the fact that high school favors a particular kind of brain. Social IQ, street smarts, executive function, hands on skills, athletic skills, even just being a good person- these are all intelligences your child may have and you should find a way to grow and celebrate them.
I concentrate a ton on self esteem for my dyslexic.
He’s aware that high school is great for fast readers, good memorizers, and/or kids who sit still for a long time. He knows plenty of “smart” kids have no street smarts or interpersonal skills. He has things he’s good at that make him feel smart, albeit in a different way.
It’s a long hard road!