GET SOME COLORED GLASSES! Like trying to teach a blind person to drive a car. You can tell them how to shift and turn, but they can't see the road. In 1988, 60 minutes aired a segment, colored glasses for dyslexics. I was severally dyslexic. I went out and got a pair. Purple was my color. Blues or reds are the colors that work best. At 28 I could read for the first time! I could see the print. It's a physical handicap. Side note, after laysic eye surgery I don’t need my colored glasses any more.
Look at daughters eyes when reading if they scan for right to left she has visual orientation preference Google The primary cause of dyslexia or look on youtube
i am 16 i have Dyslexia nobody knowed that ppl thought i am stupid and i was not near the sociaty standart and alwasy was a outcast of the soiciaty ;/ its just stupid that ur own parents are too drunk and teachers are too stupid to realise that there is mby a other problem.
forget about my last comment...(below) in Ireland we have this "recession" going on and the government have decided to slash 200 special needs assistants jobs?? hello!! wat are they thinking??? people with dyslexia hav help for a reason, why take it away?
i've noticed a lot of people saying there dyslexic and they've received no help?? where do you's live??!! i'm from Ireland and there's great support for people who have dyslexia. yeah you've to pay a lot to be assessed but its worth it surely??
good question, but did he say "pacifically" instead of "specifically"? Can't help but worry that this guy might be lambasted by the public for the apparent irony if this question makes it to air...
Yes as a mother of a child with learning disabilties I totally agree with steve. We have spent a lot of money and hours trying to help our son so he doesn't think he is stupid and just get through school on a daily basis. What on earth will happen when he gets to high school. It is very scary, we need help come on government
I live in Titirangi . I have researched and developed a quick and effective programme for people with language and print processing needs 09 817 -3889
All that labor seems to have done at the coal face since recognition of the issue is print some brochures and do reviews. All parents can look up on the internet for signs of dyslexia do not need money spent on brochures. Where is the teaching training and support.
Excellent question Steve. Although the current govt acknowledged dyslexia as a learning disability in April 2008, they have set aside NO funding to address the shortcomings in the education system. Schools, teachers, parents and the dyslexic kids are left in a void. Can they not see the link between early education problems and social problems later in life? It makes me laugh that the 'authorities' are lamenting the number of boys leaving school early... mmm maybe some early support needed??
At 21 our son is sadly entrenched in the justice system despite our battle for intervention from both the education & mental health systems since 7 years old. We were appalled at the negativity he experienced at school & the lack of responsibility taken by govt agencies to help us understand dyslexia & provide the support he required to unlock his tremendous potential. We hope it isn't too late for him but we still fight for accountability by the govt in addressing the needs of dyslexic people.
I am a teacher who works with children with special needs. Teachers desperately need resources and training to effectively help children with dyslexia.I sincerely hope that whoever is the next government will put money and resources into this area.
Awesome question. I would love to hear the answer to this one as we to have a child with dyslexia and we have had no help at all with the current school system.
Steve's son is the same and we fight to give him all the opportunities that we can. However, the schooling system and justice system lets down some of these children whose parents may not have the resources we have. We need to fight for an equal platform regardless of parents resources. This can be inherited some parents may not be able to help as they are also sufferring the effects of dyslexia. Also a lot dyslexics are in prisons because they never got the educ. they needed.
The comments in this video is a very negative. My son is dyslexic. He is an intelligent original thinker and we are keeping a positive outlook for his future. Walt Disney, Thomas Edison, Pablo Picasso, Albert Einstein, Leonardo da Vinci and many more all positive dyslexic role models for dyslexic kids. BUT much more is needed to help parents and educators identify and work with these intelligent kids. Educators need to be trained and work in or with schools to help these kids
My son and my husband are dyslexic.My husband suffered through school and he thought he was dumb.
When my son was diagnosed 6 months ago [age 7]i met several times with the school to try to implement some way in which he could participate fully in school and effectively learn to read...even offering my services...it went no where due to lack of knowledge and funding.I am now homeschooling him.
This problem is bigger than anyone thnks. My sne is dyslexic and nobody has a clue how to help him. They try, but simply don't grasp the issue and don't have a real strategy to help.
Nothing kills the desire to learn faster than failing at school. My son started school wanting to learn to read,and confident that he could ...2 years later he can barely read and that desire is replaced with frustration.
Dyslexic kids can be taught to read..just not the way they do it in the classroom.
You obviously have no concept of how difficult learning can be when your brain just won't play the game - not matter how much you want it to...put yourself in someone else shoes for just a minute and find some compassion for other people!
Parents are often the only advocates for their children and they ARE doing something about it in small ways to help their own children survive every day! The government need to step up and train the teachers to address the issues in the classroom. With more empathy and tolerance our children would not become so crushed.
good question! Its really sad that schools are designed to only reward those most normative and even in cases where programs are designed to pick out children with learning disabilities, they stigmatise these children so intensely that children would rather not receive help.
I have a fourteen year old daughter who is dyslexic. We have recently moved to a British International school. The teachers and learning support staff are so helpful and she is receiving for the first in life help and support as part every day schooling. She is still far behind. The education system in New Zealand has done nothing to help her. I am proud of my country but when it comes to supporting children with dyslexia it get a D- from me
If only you knew!! We have spent many, many hours, dollars and tears trying to get help. Why shouldn't our child be able to have a decent free education.
I have 3 sons with dyslexia who I have spent many hours giving extra help at home including homeschooling one for 5 years because the schools were unable to help him and he was falling through the cracks at school. What are you going to do to help???
I run a facility in at school which caters for dyslexia and other learning difficulties.I am from the UK so assumed this was commonplace in NZ.I am gradually realising that we are one of the few school in NZ that attempts to identify and then help dyslexic children. It is astonishing that dyslexia recieves no govenment funding .New Zealand is failing our children and it will be a great injustice to them and society if the next govenment contnues to ignore this timebomb
It is fowl that the MOE has only just recognised that dyslexia is a world recognised condition..!!
If I have a naughty or disruptive child I can get funding .. if I have a handicapped child I can get funding .. Dyslexia NOTHING.. REading recovery for up to 7 year olds .. is crap! Its when a dyslexic .. (normally boys) need support from 8 through to teen years when being dyslexic ... becomes the topic of teasing whilst they get stuff all individual help
Why are we so behind the rest of the world? Dyslexia has been recognised for years in so many countries and provided for by the education system. Can we take the government to court for failing to provide the basic right of our children, to have an education?
Its pretty concerning when you get to 22years old and find out you have dyslexia. Did my school ever help? No, Did my college? No.
Why not? Cos no one wanted to because the common NZ attitude of "someone else will do it" is all too apparent. Thankfully the university found out and help me out now. Schooling system let me down for 13years, and nearly failed me.
The NZ government has neglected to meet their legal obligation to provide the right to an appropriate education for 15% of the population. Dyslexia is a neurological disorder exhibiting many right brain advantages but the disabilities it brings with it are far wider reaching and impeding. It is a crusifying disability, preventing social mobility and the realisation of the self.
Agree will be interesting to hear what these parties have to say on this. NZ has been very slow to even recognise this conditon or think through . Need some actions in a timely fashion. Both my chilren have dyslexia & dyspraxia. My wife & Father in-law have the same condition. Two generatiosn have not enjoyed much joy or support at school & lived with the consequences, will the third?
National have a policy to make schools accountable to have every child reading - are they putting the resources in to make this happen? - is it even realistic? - for some children it is asking the impossible for others - the help just isn't available! And the research on what programmes actually ARE effective for struggling readers just hasn't been worked through.
Schools Plus is Labour's equivalent of National's policy, and they're pretty similar. Nothing specific for dyslexia, or even ensuring other learning disabilities are catered for in ways that are effective.
There is a hint of change in the Ministry now, but the main need is to ensure our teachers have the knowledge and ability to teach towards the skills dyslexic children are deficient in.
Specific funding for dyslexia was promised after the official recognition of dyslexia last year. However, no specific funding has yet been provided, such as to provide educators with understanding and tools to assist dyslexics. We don't want the educational needs of dyslexic children to be continued to be ignored, and for them to end up alienated and anti-social. The cost of ignoring dyslexia is so much higher than the cost of taking early action.
I found out recently that I am dyslexic. At 33 years of age this has come as bit of a revelation! The education system did me very few favours and I am aware of many other people who are in the same boat. It is a national disgrace that the education system has ignored and continues to ignore the needs of people with learning disabilities. Lets shake up those office wallahs at the education department and get the support in place for everyone who needs it, young and old!
This is a great opportunity to put this question to party leaders. This government has finally recognised Dyslexia as a learning difficulty but has barely moved in addressing this problem which affects so many of our youngsters. The earlier the intervention the better - and least costly. The ramifications of dyslexia and far reaching, serious and, if nothing else, incredibly sad for too many of our population. I believe teacher training is the most effective place to start.
My last comment was in answer to someones comment that LD kids become disruptive and then criminal... sorry didn't realise it would go to the start of the comments.
I hear parents and teachers frustrations every day as they try to get help or funding to support our struggling readers. We distribute the wonderful book Toe by Toe (Keda Cowling) in NZ which many schools are using, the results are amazing. Unfortunately there are also many schools unable to purchase the book due to lack of funding. Check out the West Dunbartonshire Council, Toe by Toe programme. They have nearly eradicated iliteracy in a low social economic area which proves it can be done.
Well spoken! I also have 2 (now adult) children with dyslexia. Both have gone on to be very successful career people but the study and learning was horrendous for them. We had them privately schooled and the school was very forward thinking and I still thank those teachers who went beyond the guidlines to help. This is just not an option for most parents... the school fees are needed to feed the family.. we need to follow Britain's lead in teaching dyslexic children.
It would be great if all the people working with out children could see the fantastic film 'Taare Zameen Par' from Aamir Khan. It's an Indian film with subtitles and one of the best films out this year. Its up for an International Oscar! About a little boy who is dyslexic, it shows very profoundly, what happens when the self esteem is crushed.
yes i know i have seen this Taare Zameen Par it is amazing maybe our so called "leaders" should watch it and go out and see some of the dyslexic kids in NZ then make up thier mind!
this is true helen clark hasnt done anything about this problem what is the point of having a goverment who dosent care about the diffrent types of people in new zealand
An additional comment to other parents & people with dyslexia. Universities have or will arrange assistance for people with dyslexia wanting a tertiary education. Talk with your university about allowing dyslexic people into foundation year, since NCEA often fails dyslexic people so badly that they can't even qualify for that.
And talk to the politicians about full funding for that year. we pay taxes for an education for our children & they are entitled to it as much as anyone.
Both my boys have dyslexia. My youngest was told by a teacher the other day to pull his head out of his ass and he knows he has dyslexia. A paediatrician told him to do more homework for exercise. Private tutoring is expensive and not everyone can afford it. Maybe the political leaders should visit a couple of schools in the country and listen to parents' concerns if they want to earn themselves some brownie points.
My 17 years old son has been struggling for 12 years, and although schoold did what they could, it is not enough, due to lack of funding. Recognising the problem was a great start. Now it is time to do more.
I had to take my boy out of the school system and homeschool him because the schools just couldn't cope with his needs.
And the attitudes that I encountered in some of the teachers was appalling!
It seems you can cure dyslexia by forcing a dyslexic child to read aloud in class, often, because the humiliation will force them to stop being so lazy!
All of you, go see how dyslexia is trained for in the schools in Britain and feel ashamed! Then, get over it and see if you can do half so well here!
Go Steve, its about time children with dyslexia were recognised and funding sorted. My son was never diagnosed at primary school, always told he was bright, just lazy! It is only through us looking for possible answers that he was assessed with dyslexia and dysgraphia. High School is a very hard place for him and he is struggling in his NCEA year. Thank you for speaking out.
Can everyone who has responded please ask their friends and families who know of their childrens struggle to support and vote for Steve, so we can get a response from the party leaders. Also so that the education minister can stop hiding behind empty promises and reviews which seem to be going nowhere. Stop them lumping this issue into the existing literacy programmes which do little to help dyslexic kids. Real promises with people on the ground and funds to back it up now.
Yes I understand this problem completely. my brother has a severe problem with dyslexia and I suffer mildly. I have not been able to type what you have read so far without using a dictionary. "If life is a game, then dyslexics spend most of their time sitting on the bench. Or they try to figure out another way to play.
Good on you Steve! I am also a parent of a wonderful 9 year old boy who struggles with dyslexia. I would be very interested to see what both political leaders have to say regarding your very important question!
I am also parent of one of the 70,000 NZ Dyslexic kids. These kids need help now! My husband and I have struggled through years of schooling to get our son the right support from schools and teachers. It's expensive, frustrating and deeply saddening to see intelligent kids battle with trying to stay on track at school, with little or no assistance. It's about time the New Zealand Government stopped pussyfooting around and fast tracked help for these kids.
Good question, one I would also like to see answered. The lack of information, diagnosis and support from schools is very poor. Number one priority for these kids is their self esteem. It is good to support and focus on your kids strengths and talents so that it is not always about dyslexia. My daughter has found drumming and art.
It has been a long up hill battle to get help for my 8year old daughter as we are constantly told "because of a lack of funding" hense we pay out thousands of dollars a year for extra tuition... what ever happened to "a FREE education for all children in NZ"???
I'm with you there. Exactly the same, the teachers don't have the time or the resources. I rang the education board and all they did was refer me to their website which has a great report on what dyslexia is but nothing else. No help. You can't even get an RTLB these days, have been trying all year.
It is about a year ago I think that the government accepted that dyslexia was a problem they needed to address. I have seen no change in schools at this point, so support for teachers who do not know about it. Awesome video must be shown on air to the leaders.
My son has SLD also and although the school has been fantastic it has taken me a LONG time to finally get some help for him - at my expense! I agree that dyslexia (SLD) needs to be addressed. My son was becoming disruptive and uncontrollable at times due to his frustration at school but with help he is getting back on track. This should of been dealt with 2 years ago!!!!
A child that can't learn is a disruptive child which turns into a steet kids which turns into a criminal. Start at the bottom, if a child can learn, it has a chance. What is the government going to do?
Hello, we are dealing witht he government. You have to talk worst case scenarios. Its no good talking about a good day you have to cover the worst and paint the blackest picture. Dyslexics are really smart, think what they could do with a little help in their learning years.
Good question. I was shocked when I realized that the government did not recognize dyslexia till recently. I have serve dyslexia myself and know how hard it is.
National plans to raise education standards, so helping children with learning difficulties such as dyslexia and attention deficit disorder and the likes, will definitely be part of their plan.
I believe that all governments want to raise educational standards. The point is how they intend to do it and if they are going to put the funding into the students with dyslexia who with the help can achieve to a very high standard. After all dyslexic people are intelligent and capable of achieving with the help.
no to improving the number of kids who leave our education system with some kind of qualification which no doubt includes helping children with learning disabilities.
Sue Bradford has already passed a bill quietly to lock up babies with thier mothers in prison. Parents are no longer effective as their authority has also been nullified. Now, Anderton has piled up all sorts of pills and drugs taylor made for one's needs. That's right, your pain is sold to make another's gain, for political opportunities. It is called Socialism!
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
I think education is NOT the Full solution to Crime,because have you ever heard of Organized crime or criminal organizations before,like the international drug trade or mafia.
Hopefully the 70,000 dyslexic kids parents get behind this question. It will make a difference across the social spectrum from job opportunties to the prison population.
GET SOME COLORED GLASSES! Like trying to teach a blind person to drive a car. You can tell them how to shift and turn, but they can't see the road. In 1988, 60 minutes aired a segment, colored glasses for dyslexics. I was severally dyslexic. I went out and got a pair. Purple was my color. Blues or reds are the colors that work best. At 28 I could read for the first time! I could see the print. It's a physical handicap. Side note, after laysic eye surgery I don’t need my colored glasses any more.
MrJojosaunders 4 months ago
Right No social program for us adults who been lay off ....
I'v fallen through the cracks again But I will surviive...
O the Bastards have social program in place called prision!!
Pax
chdbox366 1 year ago
Look at daughters eyes when reading if they scan for right to left she has visual orientation preference Google The primary cause of dyslexia or look on youtube
abcstan 1 year ago
i have i to and i agree nobody does anything!!
peachesreed18 2 years ago
i have dyslexia too
xXkgxX100 2 years ago
i am 16 i have Dyslexia nobody knowed that ppl thought i am stupid and i was not near the sociaty standart and alwasy was a outcast of the soiciaty ;/ its just stupid that ur own parents are too drunk and teachers are too stupid to realise that there is mby a other problem.
naveslaikss 2 years ago
Thank you for taking a stand!!!!
laurasart1 2 years ago
forget about my last comment...(below) in Ireland we have this "recession" going on and the government have decided to slash 200 special needs assistants jobs?? hello!! wat are they thinking??? people with dyslexia hav help for a reason, why take it away?
babogbell 3 years ago
i've noticed a lot of people saying there dyslexic and they've received no help?? where do you's live??!! i'm from Ireland and there's great support for people who have dyslexia. yeah you've to pay a lot to be assessed but its worth it surely??
babogbell 3 years ago
i have Dyslexia , !
and i agree with you 100% ,
no one does anything to help people with Dyslexia!
Hugskisseshugs 3 years ago 2
am dyslexia ting to git good at read so i can got in the navy.
rinkster1273 3 years ago
this is very impotant to me because i am dyslexic and i got no suport and i do not want people in the future going through wat i did
lolwatsofuni 3 years ago
all the best steve in your plight and anything is possible when something starts on youtube.
Im with you here
ziggyboo1 3 years ago
good question, but did he say "pacifically" instead of "specifically"? Can't help but worry that this guy might be lambasted by the public for the apparent irony if this question makes it to air...
skynet745 3 years ago
Yes as a mother of a child with learning disabilties I totally agree with steve. We have spent a lot of money and hours trying to help our son so he doesn't think he is stupid and just get through school on a daily basis. What on earth will happen when he gets to high school. It is very scary, we need help come on government
Deiryn001 3 years ago
I live in Titirangi . I have researched and developed a quick and effective programme for people with language and print processing needs 09 817 -3889
bellpawt 2 years ago
We agree
jatsad 3 years ago
All that labor seems to have done at the coal face since recognition of the issue is print some brochures and do reviews. All parents can look up on the internet for signs of dyslexia do not need money spent on brochures. Where is the teaching training and support.
raaleen1 3 years ago 2
Excellent question Steve. Although the current govt acknowledged dyslexia as a learning disability in April 2008, they have set aside NO funding to address the shortcomings in the education system. Schools, teachers, parents and the dyslexic kids are left in a void. Can they not see the link between early education problems and social problems later in life? It makes me laugh that the 'authorities' are lamenting the number of boys leaving school early... mmm maybe some early support needed??
evilqt71 3 years ago 3
At 21 our son is sadly entrenched in the justice system despite our battle for intervention from both the education & mental health systems since 7 years old. We were appalled at the negativity he experienced at school & the lack of responsibility taken by govt agencies to help us understand dyslexia & provide the support he required to unlock his tremendous potential. We hope it isn't too late for him but we still fight for accountability by the govt in addressing the needs of dyslexic people.
jbanddw 3 years ago 2
I am a teacher who works with children with special needs. Teachers desperately need resources and training to effectively help children with dyslexia.I sincerely hope that whoever is the next government will put money and resources into this area.
jhodgenz 3 years ago 4
Awesome question. I would love to hear the answer to this one as we to have a child with dyslexia and we have had no help at all with the current school system.
bajwcollins 3 years ago 4
Your question is vital.We need some commitment.These learners are not being catered for in the current school system.
firenza10 3 years ago 5
Steve's son is the same and we fight to give him all the opportunities that we can. However, the schooling system and justice system lets down some of these children whose parents may not have the resources we have. We need to fight for an equal platform regardless of parents resources. This can be inherited some parents may not be able to help as they are also sufferring the effects of dyslexia. Also a lot dyslexics are in prisons because they never got the educ. they needed.
raaleen1 3 years ago 4
The comments in this video is a very negative. My son is dyslexic. He is an intelligent original thinker and we are keeping a positive outlook for his future. Walt Disney, Thomas Edison, Pablo Picasso, Albert Einstein, Leonardo da Vinci and many more all positive dyslexic role models for dyslexic kids. BUT much more is needed to help parents and educators identify and work with these intelligent kids. Educators need to be trained and work in or with schools to help these kids
NEEDTOVOTE 3 years ago 4
My son and my husband are dyslexic.My husband suffered through school and he thought he was dumb.
When my son was diagnosed 6 months ago [age 7]i met several times with the school to try to implement some way in which he could participate fully in school and effectively learn to read...even offering my services...it went no where due to lack of knowledge and funding.I am now homeschooling him.
laranz2002 3 years ago 4
This problem is bigger than anyone thnks. My sne is dyslexic and nobody has a clue how to help him. They try, but simply don't grasp the issue and don't have a real strategy to help.
darrellkilian 3 years ago 4
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Dyslexia has nothing to do with them going off the rails, they need to want to learn first of all.
Leetbix1 3 years ago
Nothing kills the desire to learn faster than failing at school. My son started school wanting to learn to read,and confident that he could ...2 years later he can barely read and that desire is replaced with frustration.
Dyslexic kids can be taught to read..just not the way they do it in the classroom.
laranz2002 3 years ago 2
You obviously have no concept of how difficult learning can be when your brain just won't play the game - not matter how much you want it to...put yourself in someone else shoes for just a minute and find some compassion for other people!
MissSwitchTV 3 years ago 2
I understand your anger, but please voice your opinion without making assumptions about me.
Leetbix1 3 years ago
Parents are often the only advocates for their children and they ARE doing something about it in small ways to help their own children survive every day! The government need to step up and train the teachers to address the issues in the classroom. With more empathy and tolerance our children would not become so crushed.
jabbx49 3 years ago 6
good question! Its really sad that schools are designed to only reward those most normative and even in cases where programs are designed to pick out children with learning disabilities, they stigmatise these children so intensely that children would rather not receive help.
monkehy 3 years ago 4
I have a fourteen year old daughter who is dyslexic. We have recently moved to a British International school. The teachers and learning support staff are so helpful and she is receiving for the first in life help and support as part every day schooling. She is still far behind. The education system in New Zealand has done nothing to help her. I am proud of my country but when it comes to supporting children with dyslexia it get a D- from me
GabrielleF1968 3 years ago 7
This comment has received too many negative votes show
why dont the parents do something about it??... to wait for the government to come to the rescue!!!...you will be waiting a long time
wefaknis 3 years ago
If only you knew!! We have spent many, many hours, dollars and tears trying to get help. Why shouldn't our child be able to have a decent free education.
CQtenor 3 years ago
I have 3 sons with dyslexia who I have spent many hours giving extra help at home including homeschooling one for 5 years because the schools were unable to help him and he was falling through the cracks at school. What are you going to do to help???
lizie178 3 years ago 6
Dyslexia is something thing that cannot be ignored!
escade2 3 years ago 4
I run a facility in at school which caters for dyslexia and other learning difficulties.I am from the UK so assumed this was commonplace in NZ.I am gradually realising that we are one of the few school in NZ that attempts to identify and then help dyslexic children. It is astonishing that dyslexia recieves no govenment funding .New Zealand is failing our children and it will be a great injustice to them and society if the next govenment contnues to ignore this timebomb
deniseandpaulinnz 3 years ago 4
I have 3 dyslexics in my house hold ...
It is fowl that the MOE has only just recognised that dyslexia is a world recognised condition..!!
If I have a naughty or disruptive child I can get funding .. if I have a handicapped child I can get funding .. Dyslexia NOTHING.. REading recovery for up to 7 year olds .. is crap! Its when a dyslexic .. (normally boys) need support from 8 through to teen years when being dyslexic ... becomes the topic of teasing whilst they get stuff all individual help
AlyCook 3 years ago
Why are we so behind the rest of the world? Dyslexia has been recognised for years in so many countries and provided for by the education system. Can we take the government to court for failing to provide the basic right of our children, to have an education?
dragonmum123 3 years ago 4
so lets hear it
billeecm 3 years ago 3
Its pretty concerning when you get to 22years old and find out you have dyslexia. Did my school ever help? No, Did my college? No.
Why not? Cos no one wanted to because the common NZ attitude of "someone else will do it" is all too apparent. Thankfully the university found out and help me out now. Schooling system let me down for 13years, and nearly failed me.
eeyorenator 3 years ago 5
The NZ government has neglected to meet their legal obligation to provide the right to an appropriate education for 15% of the population. Dyslexia is a neurological disorder exhibiting many right brain advantages but the disabilities it brings with it are far wider reaching and impeding. It is a crusifying disability, preventing social mobility and the realisation of the self.
anamiliffe 3 years ago 4
Agree will be interesting to hear what these parties have to say on this. NZ has been very slow to even recognise this conditon or think through . Need some actions in a timely fashion. Both my chilren have dyslexia & dyspraxia. My wife & Father in-law have the same condition. Two generatiosn have not enjoyed much joy or support at school & lived with the consequences, will the third?
Goatytwo 3 years ago 2
Dyslexia is the ignored condition. It would be nice to see any government take a stand and change this.
feamac 3 years ago 3
National have a policy to make schools accountable to have every child reading - are they putting the resources in to make this happen? - is it even realistic? - for some children it is asking the impossible for others - the help just isn't available! And the research on what programmes actually ARE effective for struggling readers just hasn't been worked through.
Millysmum 3 years ago 2
Schools Plus is Labour's equivalent of National's policy, and they're pretty similar. Nothing specific for dyslexia, or even ensuring other learning disabilities are catered for in ways that are effective.
DanksDavis 3 years ago
There is a hint of change in the Ministry now, but the main need is to ensure our teachers have the knowledge and ability to teach towards the skills dyslexic children are deficient in.
NickDaKiwi 3 years ago 3
Specific funding for dyslexia was promised after the official recognition of dyslexia last year. However, no specific funding has yet been provided, such as to provide educators with understanding and tools to assist dyslexics. We don't want the educational needs of dyslexic children to be continued to be ignored, and for them to end up alienated and anti-social. The cost of ignoring dyslexia is so much higher than the cost of taking early action.
DanksDavis 3 years ago 3
I found out recently that I am dyslexic. At 33 years of age this has come as bit of a revelation! The education system did me very few favours and I am aware of many other people who are in the same boat. It is a national disgrace that the education system has ignored and continues to ignore the needs of people with learning disabilities. Lets shake up those office wallahs at the education department and get the support in place for everyone who needs it, young and old!
sectionsaver 3 years ago 3
This is a great opportunity to put this question to party leaders. This government has finally recognised Dyslexia as a learning difficulty but has barely moved in addressing this problem which affects so many of our youngsters. The earlier the intervention the better - and least costly. The ramifications of dyslexia and far reaching, serious and, if nothing else, incredibly sad for too many of our population. I believe teacher training is the most effective place to start.
goodreader 3 years ago 5
My last comment was in answer to someones comment that LD kids become disruptive and then criminal... sorry didn't realise it would go to the start of the comments.
Eryknumber1 3 years ago 3
I hear parents and teachers frustrations every day as they try to get help or funding to support our struggling readers. We distribute the wonderful book Toe by Toe (Keda Cowling) in NZ which many schools are using, the results are amazing. Unfortunately there are also many schools unable to purchase the book due to lack of funding. Check out the West Dunbartonshire Council, Toe by Toe programme. They have nearly eradicated iliteracy in a low social economic area which proves it can be done.
chrissaluch 3 years ago 5
Well spoken! I also have 2 (now adult) children with dyslexia. Both have gone on to be very successful career people but the study and learning was horrendous for them. We had them privately schooled and the school was very forward thinking and I still thank those teachers who went beyond the guidlines to help. This is just not an option for most parents... the school fees are needed to feed the family.. we need to follow Britain's lead in teaching dyslexic children.
Eryknumber1 3 years ago 2
It would be great if all the people working with out children could see the fantastic film 'Taare Zameen Par' from Aamir Khan. It's an Indian film with subtitles and one of the best films out this year. Its up for an International Oscar! About a little boy who is dyslexic, it shows very profoundly, what happens when the self esteem is crushed.
jabbx49 3 years ago 2
yes i know i have seen this Taare Zameen Par it is amazing maybe our so called "leaders" should watch it and go out and see some of the dyslexic kids in NZ then make up thier mind!
raaleen1 3 years ago
this is true helen clark hasnt done anything about this problem what is the point of having a goverment who dosent care about the diffrent types of people in new zealand
oml599 3 years ago 3
An additional comment to other parents & people with dyslexia. Universities have or will arrange assistance for people with dyslexia wanting a tertiary education. Talk with your university about allowing dyslexic people into foundation year, since NCEA often fails dyslexic people so badly that they can't even qualify for that.
And talk to the politicians about full funding for that year. we pay taxes for an education for our children & they are entitled to it as much as anyone.
cirianz 3 years ago 2
Both my boys have dyslexia. My youngest was told by a teacher the other day to pull his head out of his ass and he knows he has dyslexia. A paediatrician told him to do more homework for exercise. Private tutoring is expensive and not everyone can afford it. Maybe the political leaders should visit a couple of schools in the country and listen to parents' concerns if they want to earn themselves some brownie points.
missnewbooty1988 3 years ago 2
Man our government sucks its something that needs a serious look at
freeskier472 3 years ago 3
My 17 years old son has been struggling for 12 years, and although schoold did what they could, it is not enough, due to lack of funding. Recognising the problem was a great start. Now it is time to do more.
nicnactwo 3 years ago 2
I had to take my boy out of the school system and homeschool him because the schools just couldn't cope with his needs.
And the attitudes that I encountered in some of the teachers was appalling!
It seems you can cure dyslexia by forcing a dyslexic child to read aloud in class, often, because the humiliation will force them to stop being so lazy!
All of you, go see how dyslexia is trained for in the schools in Britain and feel ashamed! Then, get over it and see if you can do half so well here!
cirianz 3 years ago
Go Steve, its about time children with dyslexia were recognised and funding sorted. My son was never diagnosed at primary school, always told he was bright, just lazy! It is only through us looking for possible answers that he was assessed with dyslexia and dysgraphia. High School is a very hard place for him and he is struggling in his NCEA year. Thank you for speaking out.
scott9901 3 years ago 2
Can everyone who has responded please ask their friends and families who know of their childrens struggle to support and vote for Steve, so we can get a response from the party leaders. Also so that the education minister can stop hiding behind empty promises and reviews which seem to be going nowhere. Stop them lumping this issue into the existing literacy programmes which do little to help dyslexic kids. Real promises with people on the ground and funds to back it up now.
raaleen1 3 years ago
Yes I understand this problem completely. my brother has a severe problem with dyslexia and I suffer mildly. I have not been able to type what you have read so far without using a dictionary. "If life is a game, then dyslexics spend most of their time sitting on the bench. Or they try to figure out another way to play.
zeadee 3 years ago 2
Good on you Steve! I am also a parent of a wonderful 9 year old boy who struggles with dyslexia. I would be very interested to see what both political leaders have to say regarding your very important question!
ChrissyL6 3 years ago 2
I am also parent of one of the 70,000 NZ Dyslexic kids. These kids need help now! My husband and I have struggled through years of schooling to get our son the right support from schools and teachers. It's expensive, frustrating and deeply saddening to see intelligent kids battle with trying to stay on track at school, with little or no assistance. It's about time the New Zealand Government stopped pussyfooting around and fast tracked help for these kids.
creativesurfaces 3 years ago 4
Good question, one I would also like to see answered. The lack of information, diagnosis and support from schools is very poor. Number one priority for these kids is their self esteem. It is good to support and focus on your kids strengths and talents so that it is not always about dyslexia. My daughter has found drumming and art.
crazyveg1 3 years ago 4
It has been a long up hill battle to get help for my 8year old daughter as we are constantly told "because of a lack of funding" hense we pay out thousands of dollars a year for extra tuition... what ever happened to "a FREE education for all children in NZ"???
444cath 3 years ago 3
I'm with you there. Exactly the same, the teachers don't have the time or the resources. I rang the education board and all they did was refer me to their website which has a great report on what dyslexia is but nothing else. No help. You can't even get an RTLB these days, have been trying all year.
dragonmum123 3 years ago
It is about a year ago I think that the government accepted that dyslexia was a problem they needed to address. I have seen no change in schools at this point, so support for teachers who do not know about it. Awesome video must be shown on air to the leaders.
fredsright 3 years ago 4
My son needs help now, not in the future.
Classicman13 3 years ago 5
I live In Titirangi . I am a reading reearcher and I have a programme which will have you reading well with several 90 minutel essons .
bellpawt 2 years ago
My son has SLD also and although the school has been fantastic it has taken me a LONG time to finally get some help for him - at my expense! I agree that dyslexia (SLD) needs to be addressed. My son was becoming disruptive and uncontrollable at times due to his frustration at school but with help he is getting back on track. This should of been dealt with 2 years ago!!!!
ioh22 3 years ago
A child that can't learn is a disruptive child which turns into a steet kids which turns into a criminal. Start at the bottom, if a child can learn, it has a chance. What is the government going to do?
thenightnamedhi 3 years ago
Too general a comment, not all learning challenged kids become criminal or even disruptive.
Eryknumber1 3 years ago
Hello, we are dealing witht he government. You have to talk worst case scenarios. Its no good talking about a good day you have to cover the worst and paint the blackest picture. Dyslexics are really smart, think what they could do with a little help in their learning years.
dragonmum123 3 years ago 2
Good question. I was shocked when I realized that the government did not recognize dyslexia till recently. I have serve dyslexia myself and know how hard it is.
isaabijoe 3 years ago 2
buy mirrors -
georgewtwat 3 years ago
Nice one Dad! Well put!! Full support!!
grandpasgreenundies 3 years ago
This is a very important issue I agree!
briarmarch 3 years ago 4
National plans to raise education standards, so helping children with learning difficulties such as dyslexia and attention deficit disorder and the likes, will definitely be part of their plan.
shreddakj 3 years ago
I believe that all governments want to raise educational standards. The point is how they intend to do it and if they are going to put the funding into the students with dyslexia who with the help can achieve to a very high standard. After all dyslexic people are intelligent and capable of achieving with the help.
fredsright 3 years ago 2
National ACTUALLY have a policy on it though, as of yet, labour havn't released a single policy.
shreddakj 3 years ago 2
What is the policy, is it specific to dyslexia.
raaleen1 3 years ago
no to improving the number of kids who leave our education system with some kind of qualification which no doubt includes helping children with learning disabilities.
shreddakj 3 years ago 2
I think the Governement should step forward and help with this issue as it is affecting so many NZers.
mummyrf 3 years ago 9
Sue Bradford has already passed a bill quietly to lock up babies with thier mothers in prison. Parents are no longer effective as their authority has also been nullified. Now, Anderton has piled up all sorts of pills and drugs taylor made for one's needs. That's right, your pain is sold to make another's gain, for political opportunities. It is called Socialism!
laurek01 3 years ago
Fantastic - education is the *real* solution to crime, not tougher sentencing.
joshuavial 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
I think education is NOT the Full solution to Crime,because have you ever heard of Organized crime or criminal organizations before,like the international drug trade or mafia.
Heroin4medic 3 years ago
Hopefully the 70,000 dyslexic kids parents get behind this question. It will make a difference across the social spectrum from job opportunties to the prison population.
raaleen1 3 years ago 4