What is dyslexia, really? Far beyond “seeing letters backwards,” dyslexia is a lifelong learning difference as a result of how the brain processes language, making reading, spelling, and decoding more challenging. Dyslexia affects 1 in 5 people and is often misunderstood, yet with the right tools, strategies, and grace, students can thrive. For this reason, dyslexia awareness month is an invitation to discover what you didn’t know you didn’t know.
Dyslexia Awareness on the Homefront
In this episode, I sit down with my son, Ethan Sakata, who was diagnosed with dyslexia at the end of fifth grade. Together, we reflect on his journey, including three years of intensive tutoring through the Barton Reading and Spelling System, the challenges of learning to read, and the victories that came with persistence, mistakes, and grace.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Common myths about dyslexia and what’s actually true
- How to release guilt from words spoken in ignorance
- Ethan’s journey from guessing to reading, and what kept him motivated
- Practical strategies and tools for dyslexia management
- How to advocate for your learning needs
- Why mistakes can be powerful teachers
- The hidden strengths and unique gifts that often come from being dyslexic
Dyslexia Awareness on the Go
If you’re a parent, teacher, or student with questions about dyslexia, or if you’ve ever felt like you don’t learn like everyone else, this conversation is for you. Let Ethan’s story remind you that even when grace feels hard to come by, God is at work, strengthening and shaping you along the way.
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💬 Grace Quotes from Ethan Sakata:
“There wasn’t anything about decoding words that came naturally to me. I had to think about every single part of the proccess.”
“Less is more when it comes to words for dyslexics.”
“Mistakes helped me identify either places I needed more practice for that tool or a new tool altogether.”
Scripture Referenced
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord, “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.”
Resources and Books for Dyslexia Awareness:
🌿Barton Reading and Spelling System
🌿Bright Solutions for Dyslexia
🌿International Dylsexia Association
Sophia’s Fight SongYouTube created by a 5th-grade girl with dyslexia
Teacher’s response to Sophia’s video YouTube video response from Sophia’s teachers
Overcoming Dyslexia by Sally Shaywitz
Teach Reading with Orton-Gillingham by Kristina Smith and Heather MacLeod-Vidal
The Dyslexia Empowerment Plan by Ben Foss
I Have Dyslexia. What Does that Mean? by Shelley Ball-Dannenburg and Delaney Dannenberg (Dyslexia through the eyes of an 8-year old girl)
Xtraordinary People Made by Dyslexia by Kate Griggs
Related Episodes:
Ep. 50 5 Grace Takeaways that Still Stick | Jennifer Sakata
Ep. 13 I Didn’t Sign Up for This: Resting in God’s Goodness | Sarah Frazer
Ep. 4 Your Real Self Through God’s Eyes | Jennifer Sakata
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