Hi Can2K,

I don't have any professional expertise here. But I can give you our data point, and my observation from DS7's first grade class room, where I volunteer.

From the classroom: I should first point out that we are in a preposterously over-achieving school district. Even so, the kids in DS's class are all over the map. Some are still in the very early reading levels. Several (including DS) are now reading above third grade level, which is as high as they assess.

As I understand it, K-2 is a time period when brain development for reading is kicking in at multiple points in the brain. Different kids have different brain development "schedules" and will have that lift-off moment at different times. So typical reading in 1st grade is all over the place.

[[Hopefully aeh will weigh in and correct any inaccuracies in what I just wrote there.]]

Our data point - which I've written about extensively in other threads: DS was assessed as likely stealth dyslexic last August. He had many of the symptoms you describe for your DS. As we were lining up further assessments/therapies, something clicked for him. His reading went from early readers to >3rd grade (probably >5th grade) in a matter of weeks. He now routinely reads on his own, takes books to bed, loves reading.

We have whiplash, but are letting it ride for now. Maybe a mistake, maybe not. But honestly, his reading keeps galloping ahead and really seems unbounded at this point. So I can't justify reading therapy for him, though it would make me sleep better at night to force him to do it. I'm always anxious about whether I'm making the right decisions for DS. But that applies to everything, not just reading!

[[Again, aeh probably could offer good thoughts here, and recommend against our strategy. It's very "gut" based and honestly makes me fret. But it's still my best guess at what's right for him.]]

Of course this is just my DS's data point. You'll see lots of other folks with great results from dyslexia and vision therapies.

Edit to add: He was also assessed with dysgraphia and his handwriting and spelling are still awkward and arduous. But they, too, are improving and are at or above grade level. I have no idea if we're doing the right thing!!

Best of luck as you decide how to go forward!
Sue

Last edited by suevv; 04/08/15 11:05 AM.