An Introduction to Dyslexia for Parents and Professionals [Paperback]

Alan M. Hultquist (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 29, 2006 | ISBN-10: 184310833X | ISBN-13: 978-1843108337 | Edition: 1

This practical guide provides basic need-to-know information for parents and professionals and answers frequently asked questions about dyslexia.
Using illustrative case studies, Alan M. Hultquist addresses many of the issues surrounding dyslexia, including possible causes and subtypes, means of testing, remediation and the controversial matter of "staying back" to repeat a school year. He identifies possible methods of classroom accommodation for dyslexic students in a range of subject areas. The list of useful resources at the back of the book can be used by parents and professionals to help explain dyslexia to children, and to help them find further information and teaching tools.
This complete introductory guide to dyslexia is a must'read for parents of children with dyslexia, especially parents with children who are newly diagnosed, and for all those who work with dyslexic children and their families.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"This book does exactly what it says on the tin! Hultquist deals with the causes, types and sub types of dyslexia. He explains how dyslexia is diagnosed and remediated and gives appendices on agencies, resources and practical classroom strategies. I would highly recommend this book to parents who have just received a dyslexia diagnosis in the family, to professionals working with those with dyslexia and to specialist teachers to have as a handy reference/refresher tool. For all these audiences, Hultquist writes in such measured, clear and uncluttered prose that no one can take the journey from diagnosis to remediation without feeling that one is in the hands of someone who really understands the issues surrounding a dyslexia diagnosis, not only for the one diagnosed but also for the whole family and the professionals working with them." ---Dyslexia Contact, Vol. 26, Feb 2007

"This short, to-the-point book is an absolute 'must buy' for any parent with a child with dyslexia, or any teacher with a child with dyslexia in her class. I asked a parent of a child with dyslexia to read this book and give me an honest opinion. Her reply is as good a recommendation as any review I can write: 'I could see my son straight away. I now understand why he has particular reading and writing difficulties. I hope his teacher reads this book and is able to take note of this author's advice.'" ---Special Children Magazine, April 2004

"This is only a short book, but it is a model of consciousness and clarity. It covers much ground and should fulfill its purpose as an introduction for both parents and teachers who wish to increase their understanding of dyslexia." ---The School Librarian Journal, 2006

About the Author

Alan M. Hultquist, Ed.D., is a licensed school psychologist with a doctorate in educational psychology. He is also licensed as an elementary educator, special educator and consulting teacher. He is a member of the American Psychological Association and the US National Association of School Psychologists. Dr. Hultquist has worked with children professionally since 1979.

Product Details

• Paperback: 112 pages
• Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Pub; 1 edition (June 29, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 184310833X
• ISBN-13: 978-1843108337
• Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 6.8 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,120,702 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A Good Overview, June 20, 2010

By 

Spudman (Pasadena, MD United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (TOP 500 REVIEWER)   

This review is from: An Introduction to Dyslexia for Parents and Professionals (Paperback)

The first 64 pages of the book constitute the body of the book. Following this are appendix after appendix detailing possible accomodations for dyslexic and ADHD students, resourses, glossary, and bibliography.

Although dyslexia is not addressed with extensive depth, the book is very understandable, easy to read,not jargon-laden, and not the least bit condescending. It's a book best for parents or educators who want at least a cursory knowledge of the syptoms of dyslexia and ways to accomodate such students.

I would have liked more information about the brain structure of dyslexics and at least some mention of the problems of distractability and lack of a normal sound filter for dyslexics.

There are plenty of suggested sources and general guidelines but no specific exercices or activities in the book. An Amazon browse session taught me that testing and teaching materials in this area are not inexpensive.

Most of the suggested accomodations for teachers and parents are good, but a few are contradictory or impractical.

The author doesn't paint a pretty picture about dyslexia. Those with the condition must accept their disability, not use it as an excuse in school, and must resolve to work harder to become as functional as possible. There is no cure, but improvement is possible and new studies hold exciting and hopeful possibilities for dyslexics.