Learn the key differences between IEPs and 504 plans and discover research-backed strategies for building positive school partnerships that help students thrive. A clear, compassionate guide for parents, educators, and anyone navigating special education.

RESOURCES

• Overview of IDEA — U.S. Department of Education

• Section 504 overview — U.S. Dept. of Education

• Practical brief: Partnering with Families through Special Education

• Joyce Epstein’s Framework of Six Types of Involvement

• Meta-analyses & reviews on parental involvement & student outcomes

• ⁠Meeting Email Script⁠

• ⁠Meeting Prep Checklist⁠

• ⁠IEP vs 504 side-by-side⁠

Does your child avoid writing assignments, feel frustrated during homework, or struggle with handwriting that’s hard to read? These may be signs of dysgraphia, a learning difference that impacts written expression.

In this episode of Dyslexia District, Kim Smith — educator and diagnostician — takes a deep, practical look at dysgraphia. You’ll hear how it presents in children, what recent research tells us, and what parents, teachers, and schools can do to provide effective support.

Resources

• IDA Dyslexia Handbook: What Every Family Should Know – A comprehensive guide from the International Dyslexia Association for parents and families.

• Dyslexia in the Classroom: What Every Teacher Needs to Know – Practical guidance for educators on identifying and supporting students with dyslexia.

• SAGE Handbook of Dyslexia – Research-based resource for a deeper understanding of dyslexia and related learning differences.

• State Dyslexia Handbooks (for policies, screening, and interventions):

  • Texas Dyslexia Handbook

  • Colorado Dyslexia Handbook

  • Illinois Dyslexia Guide & Toolkit

  • South Carolina Dyslexia Handbook

• Assistive Technology Tools:

  • Speech-to-Text: Dragon NaturallySpeaking, built-in dictation on iOS/Android/Windows

  • Word Prediction: Co:Writer, Ghotit

  • Graphic Organizers & Mind-Mapping: Inspiration, Google Drawings

• Downloadable Handouts:

  • Parent Handout: Supporting Your Child with Dysgraphia

  • Teacher Handout: Classroom Strategies & Accommodations
    

In this episode of Dyslexia District, we explore how to recognize the early signs of dyslexia in children—from preschool through early elementary school. Learn what to look for, how to respond, and why early intervention matters. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this episode offers practical insights to help every child thrive.

Topics Covered:

• What dyslexia is (and isn’t)

• Early warning signs in young children

• Classroom indicators and teacher strategies

• How parents can advocate for support

• Common myths and misconceptions

Helpful Resources:

• International Dyslexia Association – Dyslexia Basics

• • https://dyslexiaida.org/dyslexia-basics/

• Understood.org – Signs of Dyslexia at Different Ages

• • https://www.understood.org/en/search-results?query=signs%20of%20dyslexia

• Reading Rockets – Helping Struggling Readers

• • https://www.readingrockets.org/helping-all-readers/why-some-kids-struggle

• National Center on Improving Literacy – Dyslexia Toolkit

• • https://www.improvingliteracy.org/dyslexia

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