Navigating the Transition from Elementary to Middle School with Dyslexia
Navigating the transition from elementary to middle school can be daunting for any child, but for a child with Dyslexia, the challenges can feel even more overwhelming. The shift from a single primary classroom teacher to multiple teachers, changing classes, managing lockers, and adapting to more complex schedules can create confusion and stress. This was a significant moment in my journey, not only as a parent but as an advocate, and it’s what ultimately led me to become a Dyslexia Advocate and start the Dyslexia Advocacy Center.
Here are some tips to help you, your child, and your family navigate this transition smoothly while ensuring continued support for your child's dyslexia:
Prepare for Organizational Challenges (Trial and Error is Okay!)
Middle school introduces the concept of managing multiple subjects, teachers, and classrooms, which can quickly become overwhelming for a child with dyslexia. Finding the right organizational system may take some trial and error, and what works for one student might not work for another. Teachers might suggest methods, but remember that it’s okay if those methods don’t fit your child’s needs. For example, our school initially wanted our son to have a separate binder for each subject, but that didn’t work well for him—things got lost easily. We switched to using one large binder with dividers for each subject, which kept everything in one place and prevented materials from getting misplaced. Be open to trying different systems until you find what works best for your child, and encourage them to use tools that support their learning style.
Consider arranging a tour of the school over the summer, and if possible, meet a few key teachers to help your child feel more comfortable with their new environment. Navigating lockers can be a big source of anxiety, so if your child will have their own lock, use the summer to practice unlocking it until they feel confident. Familiarizing them with the layout and these small routines can make a huge difference in reducing first-day jitters.
Keep a Printed Schedule Handy
Block scheduling can be very confusing, especially for students who struggle with reading, and it may take some time to adjust. Make sure your child has a printed copy of their daily schedule that they can easily reference throughout the day. Whether it’s kept in their backpack, locker, or binder, having this schedule on hand will help them keep track of where they need to be and when, reducing confusion and stress as they navigate multiple classes.
Establish Consistent Communication with Teachers
In elementary school, you may have communicated primarily with one teacher, but in middle school, you’ll need to build relationships with several. Reach out early to each teacher to discuss your child’s strengths, challenges, and accommodations. Make sure all teachers are aware of the IEP or 504 Plan and ensure that accommodations like extra time on tests or access to assistive technology are being implemented. At the beginning of each school year, or when new elective periods begin, I reach out to my son’s teachers to introduce myself and give an overview of his Dyslexia. I explain his strengths, weaknesses, and how he learns best, offering insights into what works well for him. I also make sure to let them know we’re here to help, whether that’s answering questions, addressing concerns, or supporting him at home. Teachers should feel comfortable reaching out to me at any time because we are all working together to help him succeed. This is also a great opportunity to have your child send that initial email to teachers explaining their learning style to promote self-advocacy.
Request Additional Support for Transitions
If your child has difficulty with transitions between classes or needs more time to navigate the hallways, don’t hesitate to advocate for support. Some schools offer early passing times or peer buddies to help students with disabilities transition between classes more smoothly. These accommodations can help your child feel less rushed and reduce anxiety.
Advocate for Dyslexia-Specific Services
As your child transitions to middle school, it's crucial to remember that just because they are moving into a more advanced educational environment doesn’t mean their need for Dyslexia-specific services, such as Wilson or Orton-Gillingham, diminishes. In fact, these services become even more important. The increased academic demands and complexity of middle school can heighten the challenges your child faces, making it essential that their reading interventions and supports remain a central part of their IEP.
Practice Self-Advocacy
Middle school is an ideal time to help your child develop self-advocacy skills, which will be invaluable throughout their educational journey. Encourage them to speak up when they need help or when accommodations aren’t being fully met, and to feel confident in asking questions. Role-playing different scenarios can be very effective; practice situations where they might request extra time on an assignment, seek assistance with a challenging schedule, or remind a teacher about an accommodation. At the start of the year, work together to send introductory emails to each teacher, detailing your child’s strengths, challenges, and specific needs. This not only introduces your child but also sets a positive tone and keeps their support system informed. Developing these advocacy skills early empowers your child to take an active role in their own learning and boosts their confidence in navigating their educational experience.
Monitor Emotional and Social Adjustment
Middle school can be a tough transition, not only academically but also socially and emotionally. For children with dyslexia, this period can bring unique challenges, as they may feel more vulnerable to teasing or bullying related to their struggles with reading and other areas. Keeping the lines of communication open is essential, though it can be tricky with a teen who’s beginning to assert their independence. As a parent, make it a priority to listen—sometimes, they might be reluctant to share, but offering consistent, low-pressure opportunities for conversation can make a difference. Encourage them to participate in activities that highlight their strengths, whether it’s sports, art, music, or any club that aligns with their interests. These experiences not only build self-esteem but help them form friendships around shared interests rather than their academic challenges. By fostering a supportive environment at home and keeping open communication, you’re giving them the tools to navigate these changes confidently. If you notice your child struggling emotionally or socially, don’t hesitate to reach out for additional support, such as speaking with a school counselor or therapist. They can provide valuable strategies and coping skills to help your child navigate middle school with confidence and resilience.
Collaborate with the School
If there are any specific challenges related to Dyslexia or accommodations that come up during the transition, work collaboratively with the school. Ensure that your child’s plan is being followed and that any necessary updates to their IEP or 504 Plan are made to meet their evolving needs in middle school.
Celebrate Wins, Big and Small
The transition from elementary to middle school is a huge step, and it’s important to celebrate every success along the way. Whether your child successfully navigates their locker or completes an assignment on time, these accomplishments deserve recognition. Acknowledging their hard work and resilience will boost their confidence.
By proactively preparing your child for middle school and advocating for their needs, you can help ensure that this transition is as smooth as possible. With the right supports in place, your child can continue to thrive academically and personally, even as they face new challenges. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and resources like the Dyslexia Advocacy Center are here to support you.