Dyslexia is a difficulty in reading and spelling that affects approximately 20% of the population (1 in 5 students). It is neurological in origin and unrelated to intelligence. Many individuals with dyslexia have made profound and lasting contributions to society. Below are our recommended videos and podcasts that describe dyslexia.

A quick and straightforward description of what dyslexia is and the science behind it.

A great video for students that explains dyslexia in a positive and supportive way. 

In this inspiring talk, advocate and educator Dean Bragonier offers a different take on Dyslexia. By looking at the unique mindset of Dyslexics as a strength, Dean reframes a perceived weakness as a powerful tool and teaches us all an important lesson about the power of an open mind and an open heart.

Becoming a physician is hard enough, but MUSC cardiologist John proves that overcoming dyslexia, attention deficit and other processing deficits is not an insurmountable task. John scored zero on his MCAT reading, but is now a doctor.

In 2017, Emily Hanford began investigating how children are taught to read. In a series of ongoing reports, below, she helped teachers, parents and policymakers recognize widespread flaws in instruction and helped spark a movement to bring the science of reading to schools.

Hard to Read

How American schools fail kids with dyslexia

At a Loss for Words

What's wrong with how schools teach reading

Hard Words

Why aren't our kids being taught to read?

What the Words Say

Children of color are less likely to get help

Sold a Story is a podcast that investigates the ongoing Reading Wars between phonics, whole language, balanced literacy, and “The Science of Reading.” Throughout the series, listeners hear from teachers, parents and students who felt betrayed by what school leaders, education celebrities, and publishers told them was the right way to teach and learn, only to learn later those methods were deemed ineffective.