My daughters reading is very delayed

by Helen R
(Portsmouth - UK)

My daughter is 7 years old and has been diagnosed with SPD. While there are a number of issues arising (as you are all aware) the one I am writing about is her inability to read.

Her reading level is just about that of a child 2 years younger.

She should be at a level 2b as she leaves infants and she is just a 1c. She starts juniors in September.(UK based measures)

I appreciate life is not about the number but this does reflect the issue.

The school have been so very supportive but I am now getting very concerned at her inability to read. She can tell you words on flash cards, she knows her letters. Through investigation in school they have confirmed she needs 'whole word learning' not phonics. We have also got an observational diagnosis of Cortical Visual Impairment which is now being investigated from a medical perspective.

I am wondering if she now just has a block because she finds it hard and she needs to concentrate.

When she focusses she reads amazingly - ok 3 or 4 lines of her school reading books but that is such a huge achievement.

I am considering Hypnosis as a tool to boost her confidence.

I am at a loss to know what to do and how to help her - reading accesses everything we do.

Any help greatly received!