Recently Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker invited some special guests to the Arts of 
Language Podcast: physicians Brock and Fernette Eide. The Eides, leading researchers and clinicians on learning disabilities, are the authors of two very popular books, The Dyslexic Advantage: Unlocking the Hidden Potential of the Dyslexic Brain and The Mislabeled Child: Looking Beyond Behavior to Find the True Sources and Solutions for Children’s Learning Challenges. In addition, they also founded and oversee DyslexicAdvantage.org, a 501(c)3 charitable organization that aims to “promote the positive identity, community, and achievement of dyslexic people by focusing on their strengths.” Beyond their very impressive resumes, though, they were also homeschool parents who utilized Structure and Style with their dyslexic child.
During the first part of the conversation, Brock and Fernette share a little bit about their background and experiences as parents and practitioners and describe what led them to dedicate their efforts to researching dyslexia. Pooling their knowledge about this common learning disability with their experiences of researching and being physicians, the Eides developed a handy dyslexia screening application called the NeuroLearning Dyslexia Screening Test App (available on multiple platforms), which the Eides describe in this episode.
What elements come together to create a strong reader? Why is working memory so critical to reading success? What are the MIND strengths? Listen to this podcast to find out. As you listen, you will also learn about the Karina Eide Young Writers Awards, a wonderful writing contest open to dyslexic student writers. Be sure to come back to the podcast next week, when the conversation continues.
