Reading Difficulties
Our brains are programmed for speaking and listening not reading. We have to be taught how to read and write, and it is one of the most complex skills we will learn in our lifetime. While most of us take reading for granted, there are many people who struggle with mastering it.
Neuroscientists have developed a way you can improve your reading brain. They do this by focusing on the most common areas of weakness, memory attention, auditory processing, visual processing and sequencing. Problems in these areas lead to difficulty learning to read.
The Fast ForWord programme identifies individual weaknesses and continuously adjusts to them, to keep them challenged. Gains of up to 1-2 years in reading competency can be made and these gains are maintained without additional training.
Struggling with reading can be particularly challenging for individuals who experience difficulty concentrating when reading. This issue often stems from underlying cognitive challenges, such as attention deficits or processing disorders, which can hinder the ability to focus on and comprehend text. Fortunately, there are specialized programs for struggling readers designed to address these specific needs.
One effective approach involves structured, evidence-based programs that emphasize phonemic awareness and systematic phonics instruction. These programs help readers decode words more efficiently, reducing cognitive load and allowing for better concentration on comprehension. Additionally, incorporating multisensory learning techniques—engaging visual, auditory, and kinesthetic modalities—can enhance focus and retention for those with attention difficulties.
For instance, programs like Reading Eggs have demonstrated success in improving reading proficiency by offering interactive, gamified lessons that maintain engagement and cater to various learning styles. Similarly, interventions that include repeated reading and guided oral reading practices can build fluency, which in turn supports better concentration and understanding.
At Brain Recovery, we recognize the importance of tailoring reading interventions to individual needs. Our comprehensive assessments identify specific challenges, allowing us to implement targeted strategies that address both reading difficulties and concentration issues. By combining evidence-based methods with personalized support, we aim to empower readers to overcome obstacles and achieve literacy success.