Local nurse, Ntokozo Pule is calling for greater awareness and understanding of dyslexia, urging parents to better support children with learning challenges. She explains that dyslexia is a learning difference that affects reading, spelling, and written language processing, even though children have normal intelligence and access to adequate schooling.

“It is not a sign of laziness or lack of ability, but rather a different way the brain processes information.

“With the right support, children with dyslexia can succeed academically and develop strong confidence,” she explained.

From a professional perspective, Pule said early identification and intervention are critical. She highlighted that parents and teachers should look out for signs such as difficulty recognising letters, slow reading progress, frequent spelling errors, and frustration with schoolwork.

“A multidisciplinary approach involving educators, parents, and specialists such as educational psychologists or speech therapists can make a significant difference,” said Pule.

Pule emphasised that placing a child in an environment that does not meet their learning needs can negatively affect their self-esteem and progress.

She added that while mainstream schools can be suitable with proper support, some children may benefit more from specialised learning settings that offer individualised attention and structured literacy programmes.

Pule encouraged parents to take an active role in their child’s learning by fostering a supportive, patient home environment.

“This includes reading together daily, celebrating small achievements, and avoiding negative comparisons with other children.

“Practical tips for parents include using multisensory learning methods such as combining visual, auditory, and hands-on activities,” she added.

“For example, children can trace letters in sand while saying the sounds aloud, use flashcards with pictures and words, and listen to audiobooks while following along in a text.

“Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can also help reduce overwhelm.”

Pule stressed the importance of exercises and activities, saying they can strengthen literacy skills.

“These include phonics games, word building with letter tiles, matching sounds to pictures, and practising rhyming words.

“Memory games and storytelling activities can also improve language development and comprehension.

“Encouraging children to write short, fun sentences about their day or draw and label pictures can build confidence in expression,” she added.

Most importantly, Pule highlights that patience, understanding, and consistent support are key.

“Every child learns differently, and with the right guidance, children with dyslexia can thrive both in school and beyond,” she concluded.