How to become a dyslexia specialist

Are you interested in becoming a dyslexia specialist? Here is everything you need to know about these programs and what they offer. 

What does a dyslexia specialist do?

The goal of a dyslexia specialist is to assist people, usually children, and provide them with reading instructions that will help them overcome their disabilities. In the majority of cases, a dyslexia specialist will work with smaller groups or individuals. 

While it is possible to have a big class and work on solving the problem, the method won’t be as effective. Being a specialist for this reading disability is not easy. You will need to get accreditation, study various learning methods, and practicums, and be patient. 

Since one in five children is a struggling reader, dyslexia tutors are necessary. And more and more parents are looking for ways to spot characteristics of dyslexia and help their children. 

The best ways to help dyslexic kids

The number one rule of helping dyslexic kids is to be patient. It is a stressful process that requires both time and dedication, and they will need all the support they can get. Additionally, you will need to change the teaching method or approach. 

Using the traditional method of learning letters and words might not be as effective. Dyslexic children will need a step back, which is why it’s highly recommended to start with phonics and connections between letters and sounds. 

Once children understand this, they will have a stronger foundation, and they will be able to progress forward. Furthermore, there are plenty of different tools you can incorporate into your class that will be beneficial for your students. 

The best option you can find is Speechify, which is a text-to-speech tool. It will allow children to listen to any type of content, and the app will be able to convert the text into an audio file. Speechify also works on various devices and operating systems. 

Tips on becoming a dyslexia specialist

Becoming a dyslexia specialist will require a lot of work. You will need to finish training, and additional requirements will depend on the country you’re in. One of the first steps you can take is completing the Orton-Gillingham training. 

This is dyslexia tutoring training, and it is developed to redefine the way specialists approach teaching. There are a few different options you can find, and it is possible to enroll in the course online. 

Once you are finished with the course or training, you will need to create a plan for your future students. Naturally, you will not need to invent a whole new curriculum. You can use the existing one without any problems. And you’ll be ready to start teaching.

Additional certifications and coursework suggested and needed to helping children with dyslexia

If you are interested in more courses and improving your professional education, there are still plenty of options you can check out. Each of these courses will provide more details and give you the necessary knowledge. 

And with it, you will be able to support students in your class with ease. Needless to say, there are different levels and certificates as well, so you can always progress further. It is up to you to pick the certificate you will aim to get. 

CERI certification

CERI is short for the Center for Effective Reading Instruction, and it is an affiliate of the International Dyslexia Association (IDA). If you progress enough, and if you are able to implement Structured Literacy programs, you will be able to get teacher certification. 

There are different types of certificates CERI offers, and some are only available for those that are already experienced in the field. You can also take the KREERI test, which is The Knowledge and Practice Examination for Effective Reading Instruction test of competency. 

KREERI is also part of the Center for Effective Reading Instructions, and it is one of the best training programs you can find. 

Dyslexia Training Institute certification

Dyslexia Training Institute offers various programs and levels you can check out. Two of the most popular ones are Dyslexia Certificate Program – Level 1 and Dyslexia Advocate Certificate Program.

The first one is based on the Orton-Gillingham method, and it is a great option for tutoring, teachers, and special education. The website offers all the details about the program, what it offers, and how to apply. 

Universities certification 

It is worth mentioning that the majority of universities offer their own programs focused on dyslexia and learning disabilities. You can find one at the University of Florida, Texas, North Dakota, and many others. It is a perfect option for those that already attended the university. 

You can also look for different online courses as well, and some of the universities offer them. If this sounds like a good idea, you can always contact your local university and ask for more details. 

There are many examples such as The International Multisensory Structured Language Education Council or the IMSLEC and The Academic Language Therapy Association which offer various preparation programs and licensures. 

FAQs

What is a dyslexia teacher called?

There are a couple of different names for dyslexia teachers. They are also called dyslexia tutors, reading specialists, language therapists, and teachers of reading. Furthermore, CERI-certified tutors will earn the title Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist, so there are other viable options. 

Do you have to have a masters to teach dyslexia in Texas?

If you are looking to apply for the Dyslexia Therapist Licence issued by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations, you will need to have at least a master’s degree. Other institutions and specialist certifications might be available with a bachelor’s degree. 

Either way, you will need higher education, and applying after high school will not be possible.

What is a dyslexia tutor?

A dyslexia tutor is a specialist that can offer a different approach to learning, and help children with dyslexia. They usually work with small groups or in one-on-one sessions, and hiring one is an excellent idea if your child is a struggling learner.