What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is one of the most misunderstood learning styles in today's educational landscape. It literally means "difficulty with words," and most people associate dyslexia with letter reversals and reading problems. However, dyslexia actually stems from a creative thinking style and encompasses a much larger umbrella of learning challenges often labeled as learning disabilities in schools. They include, but are not limited to:​
  • Language-Based Learning Disability
  • Auditory Processing Disorder
  • Visual Processing Disorder
  • Reading Disability
  • Specific Learning Disability
  • Phonemic Awareness Disability
  • Dyscalculia (math)
  • Dyspraxia (coordination/balance)
  • Dysgraphia (handwriting)
  • Attention Deficit Disorders (ADD/ADHD)
​The natural exploration process that is so successful for dyslexics when solving problems in the concrete world breaks down when applied to the 2-dimensional realm of symbols : letters, words, punctuation, numerals and math signs. No amount of mental manipulation will yield an "Aha!" moment when attempting to decipher symbols. In fact, this tendency to view objects from multiple angles, when applied to the symbols of reading and mathematics, is what causes the problems of dyslexia.

Attempting to investigate symbols through mental manipulation not only fails to provide clarification, it actually adds to the confusion. Viewing the letter "d" from different perspectives could lead to interpreting it as "b," "p" or "q!" Many letters, punctuation symbols and math signs, when oriented differently, end up resembling another symbol or losing meaning entirely. It is the express job of a Davis facilitator to help her client recognize the value of both states--orientation and disorientation. The client begins to identify when it is productive to operate in a disoriented state, vs. when it is essential to be optimally oriented.

​Once a Davis program participant is able to get oriented, the facilitator will guide the client to access her natural gifts to master what does not come naturally. Clients rely upon their natural talents of dyslexic thinking to conquer the confusion brought about by symbols. Using imagination and creativity, clients develop three-dimensional models in clay of the symbols which have previously caused confusion.
Dyslexia Is...
  • both a gift and a challenge.
  • something that can be helped.
  • a way of thinking based on visual-spatial talents.
  • something you can get to the root of.
  • something to be proud of.
Dyslexics...
  • are usually picture thinkers.
  • are usually able to think multi-dimensionally.
  • often are hands-on learners.
  • have wonderful imaginations.
  • are smart, but struggle in school.
  • are usually creative and think outside the box.
  • are usually big picture thinkers.
  • often become highly successful individuals.
Dyslexia Is NOT...
  • a disease.
  • a problem that can't be helped.
  • something you have to learn lots of tricks to get around.
  • something that can be outgrown.
  • something to be ashamed of.
At one time, Dyslexia was defined as deficiency in brain function - a disability. We now know, however, that Dyslexia is not a result of a genetic flaw - or brain, eye, or ear malfunction - it is a difference in thinking and learning style that can cause confusion when dealing with symbols.
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In fact, some of our culture's most talented people are Dyslexic - as is true for many of the pioneers in technology, physics, and art. Today, there is real relief for the struggle, frustration, and self-esteem-crushing symptoms of Dyslexia, ADD, and ADHD. If you or your child have any of the above mentioned diagnoses - or simply experience fatigue, frustration, or difficulty when dealing with the written word - please contact us at 503-975-0267 or email at melisssanorgren327@gmail.com!
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Davis® Dyslexia Association
Professional services described as Davis®, including Davis Dyslexia Correction®, Davis Symbol Mastery®, Davis Orientation Counseling®,  Davis® Attention Mastery,  Davis® Math Mastery, and Davis® Reading Program for Young Learners  may only be provided by persons who are trained and licensed as Davis Facilitators or Specialists by Davis Dyslexia Association International.
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