When parents first hear the words your child has dyslexia, it’s natural to feel anxious, uncertain, or even fearful about the future. You might wonder: Will school always be a struggle? Will my child go to college? What does this mean for their dreams—and mine?

Those feelings are completely normal. But here’s what we’ve learned after decades of teaching students who learn differently: dyslexia is not just a challenge to overcome—it is also a source of remarkable gifts.

Research shows that evidence-based, early interventions substantially improve reading outcomes for students with dyslexia. In fact, experts estimate that the vast majority of students with learning disabilities can reach grade-level performance when given the right support. With the right teaching approach and a nurturing environment, your child can thrive—not just in school, but as a creative, curious, and resilient lifelong learner.
 

Seeing the World Differently

Dyslexic thinkers often approach problems from angles others don’t consider. They notice patterns, connections, and big-picture solutions. As alumna Amelia Ludwick ’20 reflects, “When I left Carroll, I immediately recognized solutions that no one else in the room saw.” That unique perspective is not only valuable—it’s essential in today’s world, where innovation depends on people who think differently.

Building Resilience

Learning to read and write with dyslexia takes persistence. Each small step forward builds resilience and grit—qualities our alumni often name as their greatest strengths. “Persistence is my superpower … Carroll taught me how to push through challenges,” says David Sabot ’14, now a filmmaker.

That perseverance—built from years of effort, problem-solving, and self-advocacy—becomes a foundation for success far beyond school.

Creativity and Innovation

Many dyslexic individuals describe themselves as natural creators and innovators. Their ability to visualize, connect ideas, and see what’s missing leads to powerful new ways of thinking. “I struggled with reading and writing, but when it came to drawing, problem-solving, and using my observational skills, I thrived,” recalls Will Close ’12, now an educator at Carroll.

Leadership and Empathy

Because they know what it feels like to struggle, dyslexic students often grow into compassionate and effective leaders. “Carroll taught me that intelligence comes in many forms,” shares Shaymus Colman ’09, who now leads teams in the tech industry. “That perspective shapes how I lead today.”
 

Advice for Parents and Caregivers

Naming these gifts is one thing—helping your child embrace them is another. The path forward looks different depending on your child’s age and stage.

Elementary Years (Ages 4–9)

• Shift the narrative early. When you hear “dyslexia,” also think “dyslexic thinking.” Celebrate your child’s unique perspective and small victories.
   
• Watch together: My Amazing Brain, an animated short, can help children understand their dyslexia in a positive light.
   
• Keep reading joyful. Read aloud together, explore audiobooks, and let stories spark imagination without pressure.

Middle School Years (Ages 10–13)

• Encourage diverse outlets. Drama, robotics, art, sports, coding, or community service offer chances to shine beyond traditional academics.
   
• Model resilience. Let your child see you face challenges with optimism and see that mistakes are part of growth. (Watch this webinar: Building Resilience in Children with Dyslexia)
   
• Build self-awareness. Help them identify what strategies or supports work best for them, fostering independence.

Teen Years (Ages 14–16)

• Normalize self-advocacy. Encourage your teen to ask for what they need and to see accommodations as tools for success, not crutches.
   
• Connect to mentors and role models. Hearing from older students or alumni with dyslexia helps them see what’s possible.
   
• Look ahead with confidence. Talk about college and careers openly, and remind them (and yourself) that dyslexia does not limit ambition.

The Carroll Approach

At Carroll, we don’t see dyslexia as something to “fix.” We see it as a difference that brings immense value to our classrooms, our community, and the world. Our evidence-based literacy instruction is paired with daily opportunities to celebrate creativity, innovation, and perseverance, which are the hallmarks of dyslexic thinking.

So if your child has just been diagnosed, take heart. Yes, there will be challenges. And there will also be extraordinary strengths waiting to emerge. Your child is not defined by what is hard, but by how they think, persevere, and contribute in their own original way.

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