What does dyslexia really feel like, and how can parents and teachers recognize when a child is struggling with reading rather than simply avoiding the task? In this episode of Rethink Time, host Christen Barbercheck sits down with Cari Kelly, a reading and learning disabilities specialist, Wilson credentialed dyslexia therapist and trainer, and board member of the International Dyslexia Association's Ohio Valley Branch. With more than 20 years of experience supporting students with learning disabilities, Cari shares her professional expertise and personal experience navigating dyslexia, which wasn't diagnosed until she was in high school. Together, they explore the realities of dyslexia beyond common misconceptions, including why reading and writing can be mentally exhausting, how reading difficulties affect comprehension and confidence, and why task avoidance may signal an underlying learning challenge rather than a lack of motivation. In this episode, you'll learn: What dyslexia is and why it's more than mixing up letters or seeing words backward. Early signs of dyslexia and reading difficulties to look for at different ages. How to recognize the difference between task avoidance and a child struggling to access information. Practical strategies for parents and teachers, including breaking tasks into manageable chunks, using multisensory instruction, and providing accommodations. How to reduce academic pressure while supporting reading fluency, comprehension, and a love of learning. Why curiosity, empathy, and self-advocacy are essential for helping students succeed. How visual timers and time chunking can help students approach challenging reading and writing tasks. Cari also discusses structured literacy, the Wilson Reading System, and the importance of partnering with teachers, monitoring progress, and giving students the language and confidence to advocate for their own learning needs. Her message for students, parents, and educators is a powerful one: difficulty today does not determine what you're capable of tomorrow. Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's reading development, an educator supporting diverse learners, or an adult navigating a late dyslexia diagnosis, this conversation offers practical insight and encouragement. Resources from the episode: The Ohio Valley Branch of the International Dyslexia Association: ovbida.orgExperience Dyslexia simulation: https://ovbida.org/i4a/calendar/?pageid=3281&showTitle=1 IDA Infographics and Resources: https://dyslexiaida.org/infographics/#Wilson Reading System: https://www.wilsonlanguage.com/programs/wilson-reading-system/Learn more about Springer School and Center: https://www.springer-ld.org/Overcoming Dyslexia by Sally Shaywitz: https://a.co/d/02ixkycaLearn more about Time Timer: https://www.timetimer.com/ Rethink Time is a podcast from Time Timer exploring how we teach, support, and experience time in classrooms, therapy spaces, and everyday life. Learn more about Time Timer and visual tools for making time visible at https://www.timetimer.com/.
