Dyslexia and the Role of Occupational Therapy

Course Description

Dyslexia is a very common learning difference, affecting 1 in 5 children worldwide.  Although dyslexia is primarily a language processing difference, occupational therapists are in a unique position to support a dyslexic child’s learning by addressing key components of skills such as oculomotor function, executive functioning, and motor coordination.

Because of the unique learning style of these children, it is imperative that occupational therapists become familiar with manifestations of dyslexia, comorbid conditions, best practices, and how dyslexic children learn best. Special consideration should be given to children who are completing specialized dyslexia tutoring, because some activities are contraindicated during that training.

By familiarizing oneself with characteristics of dyslexia, basic tenets of effective teaching, and comorbidities, this course will help occupational therapists position themselves as a bridge between the child with dyslexia and other professionals. With the unique perspective of whole child function, as well as knowledge of how body systems affect learning, the occupational therapist who understands dyslexia will be able to conduct evaluations and create treatment plans that serve to enhance the learning style of a child with dyslexia.

Course Objectives

At the end of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Understand the neurological connection between dyslexia, motor coordination, and sensory processing.
• Identify occupational therapy’s role in the learning process.
• Recognize how the tenets of successful dyslexia teaching styles relate to occupational therapy principles.
• Understand how to conduct thorough evaluations and create effective treatment plans for the child with dyslexia.

• Prerequisites

  None

• Educational Level

  Basic

• Other

  Satisfactory completion of this course will require the participant to complete a 10 question post-test with a minimum passing score of 70%.