Dyslexia Resources: Where to Learn More

When you or your child receives a dyslexia diagnosis --- or when you begin to suspect that dyslexia may be a factor in reading struggles --- it is natural to want to learn as much as you can. The challenge is knowing where to start. The internet is full of information about dyslexia, but not all of it is accurate or helpful. To save you time and point you in the right direction, we have compiled a list of trusted, high-quality resources that we regularly recommend to families.

International Dyslexia Association (IDA)

Website: dyslexiaida.org

The International Dyslexia Association is the leading organization dedicated to the study and treatment of dyslexia. Founded in 1949, IDA provides a wealth of resources for individuals with dyslexia, their families, educators, and clinicians. Their website offers:

Fact sheets on dyslexia at every age level
Information about evidence-based treatment approaches
A provider directory to help you find qualified professionals
Position statements and policy recommendations
Webinars, conferences, and professional development opportunities

IDA is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to understand dyslexia from a science-based perspective.

Kansas/West Missouri Branch of the IDA

Website: ks-wmo.dyslexiaida.org

For families in the Kansas City area, the Kansas/West Missouri Branch of the International Dyslexia Association is an invaluable local resource. This branch provides:

Local events, workshops, and conferences
Community networking opportunities for families and educators
Information about dyslexia laws and policies specific to Kansas and Missouri
Connections to local providers and support groups

Getting involved with your local IDA branch is one of the best ways to build a support network and stay informed about developments in dyslexia education and advocacy in our region.

Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE)

Website: ksde.org

The Kansas State Department of Education has developed resources related to dyslexia identification and support within the public school system. Kansas has made progress in recent years in addressing dyslexia through legislation and educational policy. The KSDE website provides information on:

State guidelines for dyslexia screening and identification
Resources for parents navigating the special education process
Professional development requirements for educators
Rights and protections for students with learning disabilities

Understanding what your state requires of schools can help you advocate effectively for your child’s needs within the educational system.

Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity

Website: dyslexia.yale.edu

The Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity, led by renowned dyslexia researchers Dr. Sally Shaywitz and Dr. Bennett Shaywitz, is one of the premier research institutions focused on dyslexia. Their website offers:

Research-based articles on dyslexia and the brain
Profiles of successful individuals with dyslexia
Practical strategies for parents, teachers, and students
Information about the latest scientific discoveries related to reading and dyslexia

The Yale Center does an exceptional job of connecting scientific research with practical, accessible guidance. Their emphasis on the creative strengths of individuals with dyslexia provides an encouraging and empowering perspective.

TED-Ed: “What Is Dyslexia?”

Video: Available on YouTube and the TED-Ed platform

This animated TED-Ed video provides a clear, concise, and visually engaging explanation of what dyslexia is, how it affects the brain, and what can be done to help. It is an excellent resource for:

Introducing the concept of dyslexia to children and teens
Sharing with family members, teachers, or friends who want a quick overview
Classroom use to build awareness and understanding among peers

The video is approximately five minutes long and is one of the most widely shared educational resources on dyslexia available online.

How to Use These Resources

We encourage families to explore these resources at their own pace. Here are a few suggestions:

Start with the IDA fact sheets if you are looking for a quick, reliable overview of dyslexia
Connect with the local IDA branch if you want community support and local information
Explore the Yale Center if you want to understand the research behind dyslexia and learn about successful people who share the diagnosis
Watch the TED-Ed video as a family to open up conversation about dyslexia in an accessible, non-threatening way
Review KSDE resources if you need to understand your child’s rights within the Kansas school system

We Are Here to Help

At Kansas City Speech Professionals, we are committed to providing not just clinical services but also education and support for the families we serve. If you have questions about any of these resources or need guidance navigating your dyslexia journey, please do not hesitate to reach out. Knowledge is power, and you do not have to figure this out alone.