Thursday, January 16, 2020

The Next Steps to Take When You Think Your Child is Hyperlexic

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Wondering if your child has hyperlexia? Here are the next steps you can take to get a hyperlexia diagnosis or after receiving a hyperlexia diagnosis.

When you first learn about hyperlexia, it can be absolutely mind-blowing and life changing.

You read the definition and it just fits.

"Somewhere along this path, you encounter the term hyperlexia and a description that fits your child to a tee. For the first time, you hear a word that links the paradoxical characteristics of your child." - Susan Martins Miller,  Reading Too Soon

It's the aha moment you've been looking for because finally, you can put a name to what you are witnessing with your own child and that's incredibly empowering and freeing.

You likely feel excited and relieved.

I know I did.

Seeing the word hyperlexia for the first time was a huge aha moment for us and it likely is for you too.

"Regardless of how you learn of hyperlexia or when it seems certain that this is the right description for your child, the process is full of emotion. You may react by saying, 'Aha! This is what it is!'" - Susan Martins Miller,  Reading Too Soon

But now what?

What do you do with that information? What's your next step as the parent?

Here are some of the next steps you can take.

Hyperlexia diagnosis - the next steps for parents

So You Know it's Hyperlexia...Now What?

There's no right or wrong next step, and you can certainly do these in any order, but here are some things you might want to consider now that you know what hyperlexia is, even if it's on a very basic level.

1. Get a "Diagnosis" 

Already have a "diagnosis"? Then you can skip to the next section.

However, if you discovered hyperlexia on your own (instead of as part of the diagnostic process like us), then you might want to consider getting it officially "diagnosed."

Now, it's important to understand that hyperlexia isn't a standalone diagnosis. Instead, it's often diagnosed alongside another diagnosis such as autism. You can learn more about the hyperlexia diagnostic process here.

2. Educate Yourself About Hyperlexia Further

Parent education is so important. The better you understand the complexities of the syndrome, the better equipped you'll be to help your hyperlexic child. Here are some ways to educate yourself about hyperlexia:

  • Read through The Hyperlexia Handbook, a free ebook and email series that introduces you to the basics of hyperlexia
  • Watch these videos about hyperlexia made by hyperlexic adults - I think it's always important to learn from hyperlexic individuals themselves!
  • Dig into the hyperlexia research if you're really looking to get more indepth knowledge and insight - Best not to dive into this right away if you literally just stumbled upon the term hyperlexia mere minutes ago...
"Parents of hyperlexic children find reassurance in knowing there are other children like theirs and other people interested in helping them." - Susan Martins Miller,  Reading Too Soon

3. Inform Relevant People of Your Child's Diagnosis

It's important not only for you, as a parent, to understand hyperlexia, but there are others who need to understand it as well. Who needs to know about your child's diagnosis will vary from family to family, but here are some resources to help you navigate this aspect of the journey.

  • Consider telling your child about their diagnosis since they, after all, are the hyperlexic child and deserve to have that knowledge - These resources should help:

4. Start Implementing Strategies that Play to the Strengths of a Hyperlexic Learner

Let's be honest, you really just want practical tips on how to nurture your child and help them grow. You want to know how to help them with their language struggles or get them potty trained. You want to know what therapies to seek out and which to avoid. Well, this section is for you!

  • Browse for resources for particular struggles, challenges, or goals - from potty training to fine motor to comprehension!
  • Get quick digestible tips and information about hyperlexia by following me on Instagram - Perfect for those of you who might be feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the information here


Other Hyperlexia Resources You'll Love

Hyperlexia & Hypernumeracy Resources

What is Hyperlexia?

Best Advice for Parents of Hyperlexic Children

The next steps before or after a hyperlexia diagnosis - a guide to help parents understand how to help their hyperlexic child