The Value of the Flip-It for Dyslexic Children

'Dyslexia' is an umbrella term covering a range of processing problems, mostly associated with short-term memory. Some children have auditory problems, some have visual, and some have both. Letters, words, shapes, numbers, sequences and instructions are all difficult. The effort needed to decode the written word and to write down their thoughts means they often lack the predictive, self-checking ability of non-dyslexics.

What this means in the learning context is that dyslexics need far, far more practice and reinforcement than is usually available in the classroom. If taken too fast, their confidence will crumble. They will stop asking for help when they don't understand for fear of looking 'stupid'.

The multisensory approach of the Flip-It encourages children to challenge themselves without the pressure of being marked 'right' or 'wrong'. Its ease-of-use, its 'friendliness' and accessibility make learning enjoyable. The opportunity it gives for repetition, and over-learning where necessary, allow children to become self-assured, independent learners.

The Flip-It has an additional benefit, which is particularly valuable for dyslexics - the worksheets. Used in conjunction with the cards, the worksheets 'scaffold' the activity, but in a stimulating way: this invariably means that the concept becomes solidly embedded. Instead of the trepidation they might experience when asked, for instance, to do a whole page of sums, children feel rewarded and satisfied when completing a Flip-It worksheet ('it doesn't feel like real work!'). As a result, motivation steadily improves, confidence grows and learning becomes increasingly effective. - Sally Northen