For many students, studying means rereading a study guide, looking through class notes, or asking a parent to quiz them. Although these strategies can help, they are often less effective than they seem. A child may read the same page five times and feel familiar with the information without being able to recall it independently during a test. 

Every parent wants to see their child thrive in school. However, if your child has dyslexia or struggles with reading, you may sometimes wonder if you're doing enough to support them at home. The good news is that you don't have to be a teacher to make a meaningful difference. 

For parents of children with dyslexia or other reading difficulties, the transition can bring a mix of emotions. Your child may be excited to see friends again, but they may also worry about reading assignments, homework, or keeping up with classmates.

When school feels like an uphill climb for a child with dyslexia, the impact often goes far beyond academics. Yes, reading, spelling, and written expression can be challenging—but what many parents notice first is something deeper: a dip in confidence.

Understanding standardized testing and supporting your child’s success

Spring is a season of sunshine, longer days, and excitement for kids as summer approaches. But for many families, it also marks the start of standardized testing season—a time that can bring stress, anxiety, and questions about what these tests really mean.

Learning to read is one of the most complex tasks the human brain is asked to master. For parents of children with dyslexia, this process can feel confusing, emotional, and overwhelming. You may wonder why reading seems so difficult for your child and how you can best help.

If you’re the parent of a struggling reader, you already know how confusing, emotional, and overwhelming it can be to figure out what’s really going on with your child. For more than two decades, schools and specialists relied on the International Dyslexia Association’s (IDA) 2002 description of dyslexia to guide evaluations, shape interventions, and even influence how state laws were written. While that definition moved the field forward in meaningful ways, it had limitations.

“Yay, more homework!” — said no kid ever.

Every parent knows that homework time can be tricky. A little sighing, a few distractions, maybe some complaints — that’s all part of being a kid. But when every evening turns into a battle, especially over reading, spelling, or writing, something deeper might be going on.

You may find yourself wondering: Is this normal frustration, or a sign my child needs more help? The truth is, occasional homework stress is expected — but ongoing frustration, tears, or avoidance can signal a learning difference that’s holding your child back.

Let’s explore five key signs your child is struggling with reading, what they might mean, and how you can turn those nightly battles into genuine breakthroughs.

Maybe their child is in kindergarten and still struggles to recognize letters. Maybe their first grader guesses wildly at words instead of reading them. Or maybe reading time at home always ends in tears.

Finding the Best School for Your Child with Dyslexia or Reading Challenges

As a parent, choosing the right school can feel like trying to navigate a maze blindfolded. When your child has dyslexia or another learning challenge, the decision becomes even more complex—and deeply personal. You’re not just choosing between public, private, or homeschool. You’re weighing emotional well-being, academic growth, and whether a school can meet your child’s unique needs.