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We at Brennan Innovators continue to receive many requests for information about tools to help struggling readers of all ages with dyslexia, ADHD, autism and other focusing challenges that impact reading success. Periodically, we publish articles about such tools as this is the main focus of our business and its philosophy (please pardon the pun!)

Since our last article on this topic in late 2012, there have been even more resources made available to help both children and adults with ADHD and dyslexia challenges. Currently, we can see the great rush in the marketplace of assistive apps developed for those with these struggles. In addition, there are a few more low-tech tools that can help increase focus, promote more organization, improve reading concentration as well as comprehension and much more.

Today’s article will provide our readers with an updated list of both low-tech and high-tech tools for ADHD, dyslexia, and other reading and learning challenges. We hope this list of resources will give you some new options to improve the quality of life for you, your child or another adult you know who might benefit.

Cool Tools for ADHD & Dyslexia

Dragon Dictation: This is an easy-to-use voice recognition application powered by Dragon® NaturallySpeaking® that allows an individual to easily speak and then instantly see text or email messages. It can be up to five (5) times faster than typing on the keyboard. This voice-activated software transcribes words into Microsoft Word documents.

Exercise Balls: Some individuals with focusing challenges like to sit on an exercise ball while working at a desk. It can enable one to move around while still staying seated, which helps with focusing. Sensory and kinesthetic learners can be “soothed” into focusing with this tool that is more like a piece of soft furniture.

Reading Focus Cards: At this writing, thousands of the Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759) are in use by children and adults both in the U.S. and across the globe. These tools help to improve focus by isolating 1 or 2 lines of text AND blocking out more surrounding text than any other reading device available. They can be used in various sizes of books with any text line lengths. In addition, now the Reading Focus Cards can even be used with e-readers (shorter Reading Focus Card for Kindle, Nook, Kobo, etc.) and with e-tablets (longer RFC for iPad or Android tablets, etc.)

Google Calendar: A FREE electronic calendar that allows a user to reduce prioritizing dilemmas, time management issues and motivation hiccups. Follow the plan entered into this e-calendar just like many working professionals and executives with ADHD.

Alarm Apps: Many individuals with ADHD very often tend to hyperfocus on certain tasks. Because of this, they can have a rough time sticking to and maintaining a schedule. Sometimes, an “alarm” app can be used to break up or interrupt the flow of activity. There are many different types of alarm apps from which to choose. One app often recommended is AlarmDroid, which has many additional features for Android devices. (It is recommended that one also install "Rings extended" with this app.) For iOS platform devices, you might try HomeRoutines.

Resources for These ADHD & Dyslexia Cool Tools

Dragon Dictation
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dragon-dictation/id341446764?mt=8

Exercise Balls---Prices vary and are available from Pacific Pediatric Supply
Plain ball: http://www.pacificpediatricsupply.com/category/Hopping.html
Tactile ball: http://www.pacificpediatricsupply.com/product/SK7412.html

Google Calendar---FREE
https://www.google.com/calendar/render?pli=1&gsessionid=zoUetPCl2f9WE-G5WZuEWA

AlarmDroid App---FREE
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.splunchy.android.alarmclock

HomeRoutines App---$4.99
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/homeroutines/id353117370?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

Evernote App---FREE (Premium Version: $4.99)
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/evernote/id281796108?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

Other Related Resources

Apps for Dyslexia and Learning Disabilities (FREE & various prices)-Article and updated app list from the University of Michigan
http://dyslexiahelp.umich.edu/tools/apps

Tools That Make It Easier to Manage ADHD-Article by Margarita Tartakovsky, M.S.
http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2http://www.buzzfeed.com/peggy/these-photos-will-make-your-stomach-drop012/10/24/tools-that-make-it-easier-to-manage-adhd/

BEST Tools for Dyslexia-Related blog article from Help for Struggling Readers
http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2012/11/best-tools-for-dyslexia_10.html

Press Release - Patented ADHD Reading Tools Can Help ALL Kinds of Readers
http://www.pressreleasepoint.com/patented-adhd-reading-tools-can-help-all-kinds-readers

For information on customizable reading tools:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of: Brennan Innovators, LLC

As mentioned in last week’s blog article, we have been attending and presenting seminars at several educational conferences over the past several weeks. Last week was no exception, as we visited and briefly presented for a third time at the Patrick Henry Downtown Academy’s Parent Symposium here in St. Louis.

Just like attendees at the previous educational conferences, interested parents and teachers at the school expressed their concerns about struggling readers, asking questions about various reading challenges that included dyslexia. Some of the young students from the school were also present. These parents and teachers (and even some of the students) told us what it’s really like for some students who struggle to read just like conference attendees over the past several weeks had mentioned. The following are some of the reading symptoms described:

1. Eyes get tired when reading for just for a few minutes.
2. Florescent lights in the classroom seem to cause a glare and make it hard to focus, much less read and understand what is read.
3. Can’t focus on the line to be read. Eyes are all over the page.
4. My child loses his place all the time when he tries to read.
5. My daughter says that the letters on the page look like they are moving or waving.

With these symptoms described to us more than a few times, we shared information about the importance of comprehensive eye exams and the value of using our Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759). At the same time, we also provided literature that included tips and strategies to help challenged readers of all ages.

Finally, we thought this might be a good time to provide these parents and teachers as well as our readers here some new resources for symptoms like those listed. The descriptions above could be possible indications of dyslexia. However, dyslexia is a reading challenge for which accommodations are not provided in student IEPs (in most states). In fact, an IEP is not even provided for students with a singular diagnosis of dyslexia (again, in most states). At the same time, dyslexia is a reading challenge that can significantly impact one's self-esteem and overall success in life. As a result, we wanted to provide the following new resources we hope will be helpful to many:

New Resources for Dyslexia and Other Reading Challenges

Teaching Resources (from TES)
(Last updated on April 19, 2013)
Over 600,672 free teaching resources for dyslexia and other learning challenges to use in your classroom and school today. TES Teaching Resources is where teachers share and download free lesson plans, classroom resources, revision guides and curriculum worksheets. Whether you are looking for SEN teaching strategies and approaches, VCOP activities, or secondary classroom activities, you can choose from 1000s of teacher resources, download them for free and adapt them to suit your classroom activities.
http://www.tes.co.uk/teaching-resources/

Supporting Spelling (from TES)
(Last updated on October 11, 2012)
TES provides a selection of strategies and ideas to help your students improve their spelling. The range of free resources includes lesson plans and worksheets on mnemonics, spelling guides, games and strategies helpful for supporting pupils with dyslexia and moderate learning difficulties.
http://www.tes.co.uk/article.aspx?storycode=6258399

Understanding Dyslexia: Infographic---Visual diagram describing dyslexia from the WeAreTeachers Blog (Published April 03, 2013)
http://www.weareteachers.com/community/blogs/weareteachersblog/blog-wat/2013/04/03/understanding-dyslexia-infographic

Top Tips to Start Supporting Students with Dyslexia (from TES)
This colorful diagram provides teachers and parents with strategies to use immediately with children and teens challenged with dyslexia.
http://pinterest.com/pin/80150068341286459/

OpenDyslexic---A new, open-sourced font created by Abelardo Gonzalez to increase readability for readers with dyslexia. The typeface includes regular, bold, italic, and bold-italic styles. It is being updated continually and improved based on input from dyslexic users. There are no restrictions on using OpenDyslexic outside of attribution.
http://opendyslexic.org/

Reading with COLOR---What a Difference It Can Make!
(Published March 10, 2013)
http://www.focusandread.com/blog/post/3537480

For information on customizable reading tools:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of: Brennan Innovators, LLC at http://www.focusandread.com/blog

Focus Strategies for ADHD, Dyslexia & Other Issues

Is your child overwhelmed each time a new written assignment is due? Do you have one or more students in your classroom who can’t seem to finish a math worksheet---or any worksheet, for that matter? Well, perhaps the issue is not a lack of motivation, but in the fact that there is just too much printed text or content for them to process. So, what should you do to help?

This was one of the problems mentioned most often at a very recent educational conference we attended here in St. Louis. Again and again, we offered some simple tips to parents and teachers wanting to help children FOCUS and READ with more success.

This week in our blog article, we thought it might be a good idea to provide just a few of the ideas offered to those at the conference. These tips can make work much more manageable, especially for children and teens with AD/HD or dyslexia who sometimes say, “There’s just too much text!” We hope you’ll find them simple yet helpful for your child or students who need help with focusing and for those times when there is “just too much text.”

Focus and Reading Tips for Too Much Content

1. Fold worksheet into sections so only content needing immediate attention is visible.
-Fold so that only 1 paragraph/question/portion of the worksheet can be viewed at a time.
-With math worksheets, fold paper into fourths (or even eighths) so that only 2 problems (or even 1 problem) can be seen.
-When the content section has been read, question answered, or problem(s) completed, re-fold for the next section or problem(s), etc. until all work in the assignment has been completed.

2. Cut worksheet into meaningful sections.
-Cut worksheet so each cut section contains only 1 paragraph or 1 question.
-Cut math worksheets so each part will contain only 2 problems (or 1, if needed).
-Then, in sequential order, staple all sections together at the upper, right-hand corner.
-As each section is read or completed, tear off that section and set it aside. The student will feel like he is making progress with each “tear-off” and the sense of being overwhelmed will melt.

3. Use simple tools to help break up the content into manageable parts.
-Use a ruler placed below each line of text that is to be read. This will place emphasis on the reading matter needing immediate attention. Move the ruler down the page as each line is read.
-Use a piece of colored paper or cardstock to place under lines of content about to be read, covering all text or problems yet to be given attention. This will provide emphasis on what needs immediate attention.
-Use graph paper to properly align math problems into correct place holder columns.
-Use a customized, cut card or the Reading Focus Cards to isolate 1 or 2 lines of text and block out a significant amount of surrounding text. For some math problems, turn the card 90 degrees to isolate place holder columns, allowing only the one column of numbers needing to be added, etc. at the moment.

For information on customizable reading tools:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of: http://www.kidslearningstation.com/math/math-help-worksheets.asp

Special article written by guest blog writer, Robert A. Brennan, Jr., M.D.

My first memories of reading involve Sister Mary Anthony. She became upset because I could not read the word “rag.” Throughout grade school I did not understand the need for phonics. I memorized the appearance and pronunciation of words. Later, I memorized their spelling. My older sister, Ann, tried to help me with my reading. She instructed me to read phrases and not words. She also said not to point with my fingers while reading.

During high school, I read rather slowly without much purpose. I just dove in and plodded along. I slowly understood the meaning of what I read. A great deal of the time, I read and reread until I comprehended the meaning of the text.

In early college, I discovered the SQ3R Method. This grew out of an elaborate program (1946, E. S. Robinson) at the Ohio State University designed to analyze and treat academic problems:

1. The “S” involves surveying the heading of what one is about to read.

2. The “Q” step involves formulating questions about the material. If there are questions at the end of a chapter, this step involves reading them before one starts reading the chapter.

3. The first “R” involves reading to remember. One should notice italicized words or phrases. One should read everything: tables, graphs, and illustrations.

4. The next “R” involves reciting the synopsis of what one has read. One should pay attention to principal ideas and main headings. One should correct his mistakes and keep his attention to task.

5. The final “R” involves review. One should do this immediately after the first read and one or two reviews in between before the information is needed. These steps were enough for awhile.

However, I felt that I needed increased speed for the reading part of the SQ3R Method. In addition to my courses, I took a night course from the DeCoursey Reading Institute. This involved flashing words and phrases on a screen with a tachy projector or tachistoscope, an apparatus for use in exposing visual stimuli, as pictures, letters, or words, for an extremely brief period, used chiefly to assess visual perception or to increase reading speed. This did not seem to help. However, with my other courses looming, perhaps I did not devote enough time to increasing my reading speed.

Later, I purchased the Evelyn Wood Course in Speed Reading (1988, American Learning Corporation). This was a home-study course. Again, this course did not seem to increase my reading speed.

I purchased another course form the Nightingale-Conant Corporation. This was Mega Speed Reading (1996, Howard Stephen Berg and Kevin Trudeau). The main fact I learned from this course was to use one’s hand under the text to increase speed. One reads phrases and sentences but not words.

The next method that I tried was the Reading Focus Card (2009, Brennan Innovators, LLC). This is a textured card that blocks out and isolates text. It uses different filters to enhance reading comprehension and block out distractions. The RFC increased my comprehension and my memory. Although it did not increase my speed, I found the RFC to be very helpful in keeping my place in the text and when reading from a computer screen. In the morning, I often eat my cereal with one hand and use the other hand with the RFC to read my daily paper.

If I really need to review and remember the information, I write out 3” X 5” cards with the information and review these cards often.

Currently, I use a combination of all of the above methods. However, my search continues.

Dr. Robert A. Brennan, Jr. is a successful OB-Gyn physician with more than 30 years experience. He is currently practicing in the Greater St. Louis Area.

For information on customizable reading tools:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Photo courtesy of: http://classroomclipart.com/clipart-view/Clipart/Medical/medical_20_jpg.htm

What is Convergence Insufficiency?

Convergence Insufficiency is a common vision problem that can make reading or staying on-task quite difficult for school-aged children. The condition is caused by poor eye coordination (eye teaming), which prevents the eyes from working together, especially when viewing small images or trying to read fine print. Convergence insufficiency can also cause problems such as eyestrain, fatigue (or visual stress), headaches, and sometimes blurred or even double vision when reading. One or more of these conditions can then often result in poor focus and attention as well as poor reading comprehension and retention.

In many cases, the condition is often not diagnosed. Routine school vision screening cannot check for convergence insufficiency, and it is frequently missed in regular (non-comprehensive) eye exams. In fact, many children with convergence insufficiency are often misdiagnosed with a learning disability, dyslexia or ADD/ADHD.

Vision therapy sessions administered by a medical professional such as a developmental optometrist are sometimes part of the solution for convergence insufficiency. In addition, eye exercises conducted at home may be involved in the treatment as well.

Special Note: If for some reason it is not possible to access services as described above here (because of one's location or type of health insurance plan coverage), consider the use of colored overlays or other non-invasive and customizable tools such as the Reading Focus Cards (U.S. Patent 7,565,759) to assist with the symptoms of convergence insufficiency or other issues experienced by some struggling readers.

Important: Please remember that only a comprehensive eye examination can evaluate for vision-related reading and learning problems.

We thought our readers might be interested in accessing a few apps that might help with convergence insufficiency. This week, these apps and resources are here for you!

Apps for Convergence Insufficiency

1. Top 5 Smartphone Apps for Your Eyes---2 are FREE (mostly Apple-compatible)
Compiled by La Jolla Lasik Institute
http://www.lajollalasik.com/blog/top-5-smartphone-apps-for-your-eyes/

2. More Apps for Convergence Insufficiency (for iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch)
From One Place for Special Needs (may need to register on the site to access)
http://www.oneplaceforspecialneeds.com/resources_online/resource_online_results.html?category=&words=convergence+apps

Resources for Additional Information:

1. Information AND additional resources on convergence from the College of Optometrists in Vision Development
http://covd.org/Home/Convergence/tabid/89/Default.aspx

2. Information, Symptoms and References for Convergence Insufficiency from the Mayo Clinic
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/convergence-insufficiency/DS01146

3. Information and Numerous Resources on Convergence from One Place for Special Needs---Vision therapy exercises a child might do in an office setting (Video) and other related information (may need to register on the site to access)
http://www.oneplaceforspecialneeds.com/resources_online/resource_online_results.html?words=eye+teaming

4. Information on Research and Treatment for Convergence Insufficiency
http://www.childrensvision.com/CITT.htm

Happy reading, everyone!

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image provided by: http://www.autism-community.com/reduced-visual-convergence-in-people-with-autism/

It’s Labor Day Weekend, and at its end, students will begin a new school year, if they have not already done so. With this new year, there will be new issues for the families of children and teens challenged with AD/HD.

We already know that the rate or prevalence of AD/HD is increasing. We also know there is technology to help the children and adults affected. However, what about the availability of reliable information, resources and other tools to help manage this condition? Also, how does one know which information is really current, credible and potentially beneficial to those who greatly need it?

Once again, we are here to help. We have assembled the best and most up-to-date information to assist parents, teachers, and other adults needing this critical information that can make a real difference in the life someone challenged with AD/HD.

We hope you find these tools, resources and supportive organizations to be beneficial for a child, student or adult you know with an attention deficit disorder.

ADHD Tools to Help with Daily Life

FREE Graphic Organizer Templates-Use this collection of visual organizers to structure writing projects, to help in problem solving, decision making, studying, planning research and brainstorming. Select a specific graphic organizer from the list to suit the needs of a particular task, job, or other project.
http://www.eduplace.com/graphicorganizer/

TeachTimer-Time-Management Tool
http://orton-gillingham.com/frmShoppingCatalog.aspx?intCategoryID=17&intProductID=207

The MotivAider-An ingeniously simple electronic device that enables people of all ages to stay focused and change behavior and habits quickly, easily and privately. (A 30-second flash video is available at link to follow here.)
http://habitchange.com/

The “Invisible Clock”-Reminder device for setting up to 12 reminders per day. Choose silent vibrate or different beeps.
http://www.thrivewithadd.com/products/useful_resources109

TIME SENSE EXERCISE©-A simple pen and paper tool that can help individuals use time more effectively.
http://www.thrivewithadd.com/products/useful_resources109

Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759)-Customizable and sensory-appealing solutions for struggling readers of all ages. Especially helpful for children and adults with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, as well as low vision, stroke recovery and TBI issues.
www.FocusandRead.com/products

ADHD Resources for Help & Support

CHADD-The leading, non-profit national organization serving people affected by AD/HD
http://www.chadd.org/?gclid=CK344_H-krICFYkWMgodeXUAiQ

National Resource Center for AD/HD (A Program of CHADD)-The nation's clearinghouse for science-based information about all aspects of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
http://www.help4adhd.org/

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)-Information such as symptoms, causes, methods of diagnosis, etc. provided on this site. A FREE copy of a detailed booklet describing ADHD symptoms, causes, and treatments, with information on getting help and coping) is provided through this link (FREE download OR hardcopy available.)
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/complete-index.shtml

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-This official site offers resources, statistics, and other information about AD/HD.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/adhdresources/

ADDitude.com-Site with many articles, information, and resources (printables and downloadables, too) realted to AD/HD (official site for ADDitude Magazine)
www.additudemag.com

The ADDitude Directory-A complete resource for living with AD/HD & learning disabilities
(provided by ADDitude Magazine)
http://directory.additudemag.com/

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Clip art courtesy of: http://www.ace-clipart.com/school-clipart-03.html

Just a few days ago, we received some great news, and we’d like to share it with our blog readers. ADDitude magazine, the premier AD/HD publication for parents, teachers, and other adults, published an excellent product review of our Reading Focus Cards (U.S. Patent 7,565,759) in its Summer 2012 issue. We’re both pleased and excited to receive such a glowing review of our tools for struggling readers and thought it was about time that we shared this review with our readers here.

For a limited time (at the discretion of New Hope Media, the magazine’s publisher), you can read the Reading Focus Cards’ product review by accessing the digital version of the Summer 2012 issue of ADDitude. Just click on the following link and view the text at the bottom of p.15:

http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk/launch.aspx?referral=mypagesuite&refresh=z18P7N0wJ1p2&PBID=88db2084-4c9e-4f20-ac1d-6d46b793934e&skip=

We are grateful to Mr. Wayne Kalyn and his staff at New Hope Media for this great review. We have been receiving so many orders for our Reading Focus Cards since the Summer 2012 issue of ADDitude hit the stands on May 8! Thank you, ADDitude!

Happy Reading with our Reading Focus Cards, everyone!

PRLog's press release about ADDitude Magazine's independent product review of the Reading Focus Card: http://prlog.org/11915185

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Photo courtesy of ADDitude Magazine, a publication of New Hope Media, from http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk/launch.aspx?referral=mypagesuite&refresh=z18P7N0wJ1p2&PBID=88db2084-4c9e-4f20-ac1d-6d46b793934e&skip=

Learning does not come easily for every student. Parents and teachers often look for specific strategies and resources to assist struggling readers and learners, especially those with AD/HD, dyslexia, or other issues. Here are just a few that you might consider for the challenged student(s) in your life:

1. Request or allow for course and book content to be available via audiotape, CD, or DVD.

2. Use a portable, hand-held spell checker (such as the Franklin Spelling Ace) for unknown words.

3. Use graph paper or Reading Focus Cards for math to promote accurate placeholder work.

4. Use interactive computer reading programs that require only a limited number of tasks at a time.

5. Underline or highlight important key words in a set of directions BEFORE beginning an assignment.

6. Fold a worksheet so that only a small amount of text, information, or problems is visible at one time. Using individualized tools can help with this as well.

7. Allow for moving to optional work areas with less distraction.

8. Allow for the experience of a variety of sensory learning techniques such as those from the use of a computer, tape recorder, projector, and manipulatives. The more senses you appeal to in the learning process, the more success the student will experience.

9. Use word processors or computers to complete written work, especially when writing is a struggle.

10. Allow for kneeling or standing at a desk (if needed), as long as it does not cause problems or distractions for others.

11. Allow for access to a copy of prepared notes, especially after a teaching session or discussion.

12. Arrange for a second set of textbooks at home so that materials are always at hand when needed.

13. Use very low-volume music (instrumental) or environmental sounds (seashore or other nature sounds) while doing independent work.

14. Allow for student to work cooperatively at times with others as part of a "buddy" system of support.

15. Use colored paper for all printed materials including worksheets, outlines, notes, etc. Experiment with pastels as well as bright shades. One particular color may produce the best results for an individual.

16. Consider the use of colored overlays or the Reading Focus Cards for focus and reading challenges because the white background of a page of text can be visually “offensive” to some readers/learners.

17. Try visiting math.com or www.khanacademy.org as well as other similar free websites for help with specific math and science challenges.

18. Reading Focus Cards can be used with iPads and other e-tablets (Model #002-Longer). They are also very good for use with Kindles, Nooks, and other e-readers (Model #001-Shorter). Recommendation: A non-scratch film should be used to protect tech devices’ screens with this application.

19. List of Android APPS for Special Needs (some pricey/some FREE) http://www.androidzoom.com/android_applications/special+education

20. List of iPad APPS for Special Needs http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2012/03/basket-of-special-needs-apps.html

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Clip art courtesy of: http://www.clipartguide.com/_search_terms/reading.html

As always, we focus on addressing the current reading needs of our clients, parents, teachers and others who communicate with us on a daily basis. This week, our emails and phone calls have been about assistance with dyslexia. Parents of new, young readers and grad students have recently described to us their children’s or their own issues with convergence insufficiency, visual stress (from white page backgrounds) and/or actual diagnoses of dyslexia.

With the popularity of last week’s blog article and app list for autism (it received the most visitors of all our other blog articles combined!), we thought it would be very appropriate this week to provide a list of apps dedicated to those with dyslexia-related symptoms. Here is our current list of BEST apps for this need:

1. Textkraft English: Top Smart Text Processor for iPad---Textkraft English is the perfect iPad writing tool for you, your tweens or teens to write essays, letters or email.
http://www.funeducationalapps.com/2011/11/textkraft-english-top-smart-text-processor-for-ipad.html

2. American Wordespeller – A Phonetic Dictionary App to Help Dyslexic Kids with Spelling ---American Wordspeller© & Phonetic Dictionary app is great phonetic dictionary that can help and support kids with spelling difficulties and dyslexia.
http://www.funeducationalapps.com/2011/02/american-wordespeller-a-phonetic-dictionary-app-to-help-dyslexic-kids-with-spelling-.html

3. Collections of Top Spelling Apps for Kids (Some include promo codes for free or lower prices---Issued 2/21/12 and may be time sensitive)
http://www.funeducationalapps.com/spelling-apps/

4. Top Ten iPhone Apps: (Includes VIDEO) Ron Davis – Unlocking the Power of Dyslexia--- Ronald D. Davis explains how he discovered how to overcome his reading disability through the power of orientation.
http://topteniphoneapps.info/iphone-videos/ron-davis-unlocking-the-power-of-dyslexia/

5. Apps for Dyslexia and Learning Disabilities---This long list of tools can help level the playing field for you, a student or others to reading, spelling, writing, and organizational/study skills. Use of these tools can also lead to increased self-confidence in the classroom and workplace.
http://dyslexiahelp.umich.edu/tools/apps

6. Best 5 iPad Apps for Dyslexia---by Drs.Fernette and Brock Eide
http://dyslexicadvantage.com/profiles/blogs/ipad-apps-dyslexia

7. openWeb---Dyslexia-friendly web browser by Abbie Gonzalez
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/openweb/id519348697?ls=1&mt=8

(Software) Ghotit corrects the spelling of people with dyslexia and dysgraphia. http://www.ghotit.com

Special Note: The Reading Focus Cards work well to provide even more focus and concentration with iPads, Kindles, Nooks, and other related tech devices. Just remember to use a non-scratch film to protect the tech screens with this application.
Happy Reading, EVERYONE!

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com For ADHD focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For ADHD info and support
314-892-3897

We know that all struggling learners and their families need extra help and support. This is particularly important for those families in the autism community. Recently, resources have become available that are “leveling the playing field” for ALL learners, especially children and adults challenged with autism spectrum disorders. We are referring to the wonderful technology that is not only available now but more accessible than ever.

This technology has taken the form of e-readers such as Kindles, Nooks, e-tablets like iPads and apps of every kind. Parents and teachers have been calling in recent weeks to tell us how our Reading Focus Cards are helping to even further increase focus and concentration when used with these tech devices. (It is commended that a non-scratch film be used to protect the tech screens for this application.)

This blog article, filled to the brim with autism apps, software programs, and other resources, is dedicated to the children and adults on the spectrum as well as to their families who support and care for them---tirelessly. We hope what is provided here will make y our days just a little bit brighter, happier, and filled with more learning success!

Apps and App Lists

Finding Good Apps for Children with Autism (how-to article containing titles of good apps)
http://gadgetwise.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/11/29/finding-good-apps-for-children-with-autism/

A comprehensive list of apps used with and by people challenged with autism.
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/autism-apps/id441600681?mt=8

Here is an excellent list of apps from Autism Speaks, the premier organization for autism info, resources, and support.
http://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services/autism-apps

Apps Index from A to Z--for Children with Special Needs (+ reviews & demos from Dr. Gary Brown)
http://a4cwsn.com/apps/apps-a-z/ & http://a4cwsn.com/

List of Top 10 Apps for Children of ALL Abilities (for iPads, iPhones, and others-from Ms. Meg Wilson)
http://edreach.us/2011/11/23/giving-thanks-for-apps-that-assist/

Apps (and much MORE!) for regular students as well as an apps section entitled “Especially for Special Education” (Scroll down the page and on the right, please.)
http://www.schrockguide.net/ipads-in-the-classroom.html

Other Helpful Resources (More autism apps provided in the articles to follow)

1. Blog article written by Shannon Des Roches Rosa: mother, writer, & advocate for autism/special needs. Shannon’s 9 year-old son Leo was introduced to the iPad, and she documented the impact it made for Leo and the family.
http://www.blogher.com/ipad-nearmiracle-my-son-autism

2. A second blog article, also from Shannon Des Roches Rosa, a former software producer for Electronic Arts and The Learning Company, presents important information about the characteristics of great apps for kids with autism.
http://momswithapps.com/2010/08/04/characteristics-of-great-apps-for-kids-with-autism/

Websites for Autism Support

Many FREE downloadables, resources and other support for families and teachers of children with autism:
http://www.angelfire.com/pa5/as/asteachersites.html

Autism ABA Materials, Lesson Plans, Data Sheets, Games, Work Tasks, and Other Educational Resources for Students with Autism:
http://www.positivelyautism.com/links.html

Links to information, organizations, techniques and strategies especially for teaching students in the autism spectrum:
http://www.tinsnips.org/

Links for helpful materials and information to help your student or child with autism:
http://www.autism4teachers.com/autism4teachers_051.htm

TeachersFirst's resources on autism spectrum disorders and Asperger's:
http://www.teachersfirst.com/spectopics/autism-asperger.cfm

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com For ADHD focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For ADHD info and support
314-892-3897

In the aftermath of the holiday gift-giving of so many tech devices, we have been receiving more calls and email requests than usual over the past month for educational and organizational apps, particularly those for AD/HD.

In response to these requests, we have gathered here a collection of app lists helpful for the AD/HD community with credits to Mr. Mark Kawate, ADDitude Magazine, and the editors of the Reader’s Digest, respectively. We hope these organizational and educational resources will provide you or someone you know challenged with AD/HD the needed assistance to make each day just a little bit better.

We would like to hear from our readers, too. If you know of another great AD/HD app not included in the lists below, please tell us and our readers in the comment boxes below. We will certainly appreciate your input!

Our readers are also telling us that their Reading Focus Cards work very well when used with their e-tablets (for iPads, etc.---the longer Reading Focus Card) and e-readers (for the Kindle, Nook, etc.---the smaller Reading Focus Card). This is an excellent way to get more focus on 1 or 2 lines of text on a webpage AND block out more surrounding text. We recommend that when doing this, the reader also use a scratch-proof, film shield to protect the tech device’s screen.

So, without further ado, here are 4 lists of the BEST apps we know of at this writing for children and/or adults challenged with the symptoms of AD/HD:

http://www.appsforadhd.com/appsforadhd/5bestiosapps.html The 5 Best iPhone/iPad Apps for ADHD-by Mark Kawate

http://www.appsforadhd.com/appsforadhd/top6free.html The Top 6 FREE iPhone/iPad Apps for ADHD-by Mark Kawate

http://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/8698.html To-Do List Apps for ADHD Kids and Adults from ADDitudeMag.com

http://www.rd.com/health/adhd-and-ipads-5-apps-to-make-life-easier/ ADHD and iPads: 5 Apps to Make Life Easier by Reader's Digest Editors

www.smartyearsapps.com A family of apps for ALL learners (courtesy of Ms. Rosie Simms---thank you!)

For more information, please visit:

www.FocusandRead.com For focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For info, resources, and support
314-892-3897 For phone support and consultation

What do you do when you've just received a diagnosis of ADD or ADHD for your child? Is it an automatic indication that your child will not experience success in school? Does it mean that your youngster will have fewer opportunities in life? Not at all! There is much that you can do to ensure that your child challenged with AD/HD can become as successful as any of his classmates. However, he will need your consistent support and resources you can help to offer him.

First of all, try to focus on the strengths of your child challenged with ADD. Children and adults with ADD or ADHD (AD/HD) will ALWAYS have strengths (notice the plural here!) If the ADD energies can be channeled with appropriate strategies, they will further deliver on those strengths. It's all about having either a "glass half-full or half-empty" ADDitude.

Secondly, there are strategies and resources available that can actually be very helpful as well as organizations that can be very supportive. Here is our most current list of great resources for AD/HD:

Resources for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD):

• http://www.chadd.org/ For parents of children and adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) ---National Resource Center on AD/HD with info, resources, and support

• http://www.additudemag.com/ Website of ADDitude Magazine, premier publication about AD/HD

• http://www.russellbarkley.org/adhd-research.htm Official website of Professor Russell Barkley, providing fact sheets, resources and other information relating to AD/HD

• http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/facts_for_families/children_who_cant_pay_attention/attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder Downloadable article with facts, resources, & other info on AD/HD for families

• http://www.ldanatl.org/ Learning Disabilities Association of America---National organization providing info, resources and support for LDs

Advocacy Resources (for All Special Needs):

• http://www.wrightslaw.com/ Wrightslaw: Special Education Law and Advocacy

• http://aacap.org/page.ww?name=Services+in+School+for+Children+with+Special+Needs:+What+Parents+Need+to+Know§ion=Facts+for+Families Services (in school) for children with special needs (from the American Academy of Pediatrics)

For more information, please visit:

www.FocusandRead.com For focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For info, resources, and support
314-892-3897 For phone support and consultation

We wanted to follow up on here on last week’s article about help for low vision, stroke recovery and traumatic brain injury. It only makes sense to provide additional resources from the internet and organizations that can provide additional support to persons with these challenges AND their caregivers as well.

Please find the following resources, many of which are FREE. We hope they will help you, your child, or someone for whom you care:

Low Vision Resources

1. A variety of products, resources, and organizations are available to help people who have low vision. www.glaucoma.org/treatment/low-vision-resources.php

2. Information on rehabilitation, low vision aids, coping strategies, and other resources are provided here. http://www.lowvision.org/

3. A rich collection of resources on the World Wide Web is available to those who wish to know more about visual impairments and about resources and accommodations for students with visual impairments. (from the University of Washington) http://www.washington.edu/doit/Faculty/Strategies/Disability/Vision/low_vision_resources.html

Stroke Recovery Resources

1. The American Stroke Association offers support and information for stroke patients, caregivers and their families. http://www.strokeassociation.org/STROKEORG/

2. Stroke-recovery resources such as a FREE online caregiver handbook, speech and language therapy information and software, and other information are accessible here. http://www.bungalowsoftware.com/rehab/#Stroke_

3. FREE booklet, entitled "Recovering After a Stroke," is designed to help stroke survivors and their families get the most out of post-stroke (all from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/stroke/stroke_rehabilitation.htm

TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) Resources

1. Useful resources on the web, including discussion groups, email lists, and numerous web pages. Resources are organized by category (TBI, therapist info, rehab institutes, etc.) http://www.bungalowsoftware.com/rehab/#TBI

2. Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation and Resources: TBI Resource Guide available by subscribing to our free monthly electronic newsletter and other resources. http://www.neuroskills.com/

3. Brain Injury REHAB & RECOVERY Related Links and Resources http://www.discoverhiddensecrets.com/TBIresources.html

For more information, please visit:

www.FocusandRead.com For focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For info, resources, and support
314-892-3897 For phone support and consultation

Clip art courtesy of: http://www.123rf.com/stock-photo/brain_clipart.html

It is customary for us at Brennan Innovators to receive numerous inquiries and consultation requests each week from parents and teachers of children with various kinds of learning differences (i.e. AD/HD, dyslexia, autism, etc.) However, during the past few weeks, we have been receiving more requests from struggling readers with other physical conditions or recently-acquired challenges .

Adults with low vision issues have been asking about our Reading Focus Cards (U.S. Patent 7,565,759) for tracking and fluency help with macular degeneration and other vision issues. In addition, persons recovering from stroke or traumatic brain injury and their care givers have been calling to ask about our tools for their reading challenges, as well. It has been very gratifying to offer them a very inexpensive aid to increase their potential to read with more success.

With some of these physical conditions described above, it is often difficult for an affected reader to see where the next line of text is actually located in order to begin to read it. Also, the white background on a page of text can work against an already-struggling reader, causing visual stress and making it even more difficult to read. However, when a colored filter such as a highlighting yellow lens or overlay is added to change the page background, the text appears more pronounced or emphasized. This aids a compromised reader to focus and track more effectively, which can lessen frustration and anxiety, and may very well provide the needed focus, concentration, and better comprehension so as to ultimately experience the ability to read once again.

The Reading Focus Cards can provide these features and more for a challenged reader of any age with reading issues such as stroke, brain injury, or challenges relating to low vision. Of course, the focusing tool is not meant in any way to take the place of appropriate medical attention, but it can assist in the rehabilitation period when evaluation and diagnosis have been completed, and recovery has begun.

For more information and to view a video about this reading solution called the Reading Focus Cards, please visit:

www.FocusandRead.com For focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For info, resources, and support
314-892-3897 For phone support and consultation

The holiday season is winding down, and the new year is about to begin. The presents have been put away, returned, or exchanged. However, if you were fortunate enough to receive an iPad or the like for Christmas, have you begun to take full advantage of it? Are you needing more information and resources to make that happen? Let's see if we can help you here.

First of all, we have been receiving quite a number of calls from parents and teachers telling us that they are using our Reading Focus Cards with their new iPads and Kindles. Of course, we are recommending a protective film for the tech devices' screens with this application.

Secondly, if you are a parent or a teacher of a child with special needs, you are in luck today. I have been busy this past week researching the BEST apps for your new tech devices---specifically, apps for children and teens with special needs.

To follow here, you will find the apps that will be worth your time to investigate. Most of them have been chosen by professionals in the field of special needs. I only bring them directly to you here. Please let me know of your experiences with any one or more of them. It will be very valuable to receive your input! This is my humble gift to you for the new year. Happy New Year 2012 to all my readers here and the children you help!

Best 5 iPad Apps for Dyslexia (posted by Drs. Fernette and Brock Eide--July 26, 2011) http://dyslexicadvantage.com/profiles/blogs/ipad-apps-dyslexia

Top Word-Processor App (iPad writing tool) http://www.funeducationalapps.com/2011/11/textkraft-english-top-smart-text-processor-for-ipad.html

Apps Index from A to Z--for Children with Special Needs (+ reviews and demos from Dr. Gary Brown) http://a4cwsn.com/apps/apps-a-z/

List of Top 10 Apps for Children of ALL Abilities (for iPads, iPhones, and others from Ms. Meg Wilson) http://edreach.us/2011/11/23/giving-thanks-for-apps-that-assist/

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com For focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For info, resources, and support
314-892-3897
Clip art courtesy of: http://freewareme.com/725-apple-ipad-photos-and-images.html

As promised, we wanted to provide you with additional resources for those readers who struggle with dyslexia. We hope you will also find these to be helpful as well as those listed in our last article here!

1. http://www.learning-inside-out.com/dyslexia-statistics.html Are you a parent of a child struggling with learning strategies for reading, writing, math, test taking – or school in general? Or are you looking for methods to help yourself in some area of learning? This site will help.

2. http://www.senteacher.org/Condition/11/dyslexia.xhtml SEN weblinks and resources for dyslexia

3. http://www.ncld.org/at-school/general-topics/accommodations/accommodating-students-with-dyslexia How to accommodate students challenged with dyslexia (From the National Center for Learning Disabilities)

4. http://www.ncld.org/ld-basics/success-stories/anne-ford-allegra-ford-scholars/winning-battles-dyslexia A story to inspire---Porsha Buck's story follows her struggles with dyslexia and her goal from an early age to become a doctor. Porsha was the 2007 Runner-Up for the Anne Ford Scholarship and a great example of a learning-disabled student who accepted challenges with the confidence she could always overcome them.

5. http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=new-font-helps-dyslexics-read Dutch researcher designs distinct characters into "Dyslexie" to make it more difficult for dyslexics to rotate, swap and mirror letters and numbers. (October 26, 2011)

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com For focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For info, resources, and support
314-892-3897

Photo courtesy of: http://www.stltoday.com/lifestyles/home-and-garden/home/article_1bea7419-12fb-54e0-ba1a-7c542dc87a08.html

In our last article here, we discussed strategies for a struggling reader with sensory needs. In this week's article, we will continue to address these needs but from the standpoint of resources for the parents and teachers of these readers and learners.

The following is a current list of links that should provide information on assistive technology, educational resources, more strategies and tips, and additional information to help sensory learners. If our readers have additional resources to offer for these learners, please feel free to post them in the comments boxes below to share with others here. As always, thank you in advance for your valuable input!

Resources for Sensory Learning Styles

Kinesthetic techniques and strategies
1. http://math.about.com/b/2007/07/19/why-wont-they-learn-their-timestables-what-can-i-do.htm Math resources for younger learners
2. http://edufire.com/content/articles/87-study-tips-for-kinesthetic-learners Study tips for kinesthetic learners

Visual graphic organizers
1. http://freeology.com/graphicorgs/ (free)
2. http://edhelper.com/teachers/graphic_organizers.htm (free)
3. http://www.eduplace.com/graphicorganizer/ (free)

Audio-books
1. http://www.audible.com (subscription-based)
2. http://librivox.org/ (free)
3. http://www.booksontape.com/ 1,000s of unabridged books on tape, CD, or in a downloadable format (A Division of Random House)

Recipes for making tactile other multi-sensory learning materials
1. Finger Paint Gel http://learningdisabilities.about.com/od/infancyandearlychildhood/ht/fingerpaint.htm
2. Puffy Paint http://learningdisabilities.about.com/od/infancyandearlychildhood/ht/puffypaint.htm
3. Fun Putty http://learningdisabilities.about.com/od/infancyandearlychildhood/ht/multisensoryput.htm
4. Crafting Dough http://learningdisabilities.about.com/od/infancyandearlychildhood/ht/craftingdough.htm
5. Multi-sensory Letters, Numbers, and Shapes http://learningdisabilities.about.com/od/infancyandearlychildhood/ht/lettersandshape.htm

Assistive technology resources for all sensory learners
1. http://assistivetech-4alllearners.wikispaces.com/Supporting+Physical_Sensory+Computer+Access Lists of strategies/modifications and low-high tech tools to support computer access, vision, and hearing (courtesy of the Assistive Technology Training Project, developed by the Southwest Human Development AT Program in collaboration with the Arizona Department of Education).
2. www.FocusandRead.com/products Reading tools with visual and tactile features that appeal to sensory learners
3. http://www.atanswers.com/resourcesNew.htm Resources for special needs sensory learners

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com For focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For info, resources, and support
314-892-3897

Some of the resources here were provided courtesy of www.About.com.
Clip art courtesy of: http://www.kidscount1234.com/hartmann.html

There are many resources, both in print and online, for struggling readers. We have tried to provide some of these for our readers in previous blog articles here. However, information and resources for sensory learners who are struggling readers is a bit more challenging to find.

Since we will always want to “teach to the strengths” of a child, it is important to know the child's learning style. If the learning style of a particular child is not yet known, you might consider visiting http://www.learning-styles-online.com/inventory/questions.php?cookieset=y for a FREE learning styles inventory quiz. One type of learning style is that of the sensory learner. Sensory learners need to learn by using one or more of their five senses.

Many of these learners may need “soothing” or “anchoring” when trying to read or learn. Consider that these learners require an even stronger connection with their senses to address these needs.

Many sensory learners prefer concrete, practical, and procedural information. They look for the facts. Visual (sensory) learners like and learn best with graphs, pictures, and diagrams. They look for visual representations of information. Tactile sensory learners prefer to manipulate objects where the kinesthetic (sensory) learners like to move, dance, and use gestures or demonstrations to learn. In addition, they prefer to do physical experiments and learn empirically (by trying). These learners also enjoy working in groups to figure out problems. Auditory (sensory) learners, of course, learn best by listening. Audio books, CDs, and music work well for teaching new material to these learners.

If a child is a struggling reader AND a sensory learner, then it is even more critical to “teach to the strengths” of that child through soothing or anchoring via one or more of his senses. Consider the following strategies:

Visual Learners take in information by:

• Underlining
• Different colors
• Highlighting
• Symbols
• Flow charts, timelines
• Charts and graphs
• Pictures, videos, posters, slides
• Different spatial arrangements on the page
• Flashcards
• Textbooks with diagrams, pictures
• Teachers/tutors should use gestures & picturesque language

Possible strategies:

1. Transform lecture notes into a learnable unit by changing them into “picture pages”.
2. Reconstruct images in different ways – i.e., different spatial arrangements
3. Redraw your pages from memory.
4. Replace words with symbols or initials.

Auditory Learners take in information by:

• Attending lectures
• Attending tutorials
• Discussing topics with other students
• Discussing topics with your lecturers
• Explaining new ideas to other people
• Adding rhymes or tunes to your studying
• Using a tape recorder
• Remembering the interesting examples, stories, jokes
• Describing the overheads, pictures and other visuals to someone who was not there
• Leaving spaces in your lecture note for later recall and “filling in”

Possible strategies:

Convert lecture notes into a learnable unit in the following ways:
1. Lecture notes may be poor because learner prefers to listen. Learner will need to expand notes by talking with others and collecting notes from the textbook
2. Put summarized notes onto tapes and listen to them
3. Ask others to “hear” student’s understanding of topic
4. Read summarized notes aloud
5. Explain notes to another “auditory” person

Tactile Learners take in information by using:

• Laboratory equipment and experimentation
• Artifacts from actual fields trips
• Physical examples of principles
• "Real-life" examples
• Making actual applications
• Hands-on approaches to learning(computing)
• Empirical learning opportunities (by trial and error)
• Inspecting and manipulating collections (i.e., of rocks, plants, shells, etc.)
• Creating exhibits, making samples, working with photographs
• Recipes (sense of taste, too)– for solutions to problems
• Manipulatives and physical samples for hands-on work

Possible strategies:

Convert lecture notes to learnable units by:
1. Using many concrete examples in a summary (i.e., case studies and applications to help with principles and abstract concepts).
2. Talking about notes with another tactile learner
3. Using/working with pictures and photographs that illustrate an idea
4. Going back to the laboratory experience or to the actual lab manual for support
5. Recalling the actual experiments, fields trip, etc. as sequential experiences (first, this was done, etc.)

Kinesthetic Learners take in information by using:

• Physical movement
• Doing work in laboratories
• Taking actual fields trips
• "Acting out" or dramatizing examples of principles
• Teachers/tutors who give "real-life" examples
• Applications in the field
• Trial and error through physical actions
• Collecting rock types, plants, shells, grasses, etc.
• Exhibiting, finding samples, taking photographs
• Step-by-step lists or protocols as solutions to problems

Possible strategies:

Convert lecture notes to learnable units by:
1. Using many examples in a summary (i.e., case studies and physical applications to help with principles and abstract concepts).
2. Talking about notes with another kinesthetic learner
3. Using pictures and photographs that illustrate an idea
4. Physically going back to the laboratory or lab manual to re-work an idea
5. Recalling the actions taken in experiments, fields trip, etc.

Next week's article: "FREE Resources for Sensory Learners"

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com For focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For info, resources, and support
314-892-3897

To read testimonials from teachers, parents and students who have used the Reading Focus Cards, please visit http://www.focusandread.com/rfc-testimonials.

Information courtesy of: www.housing.sc.edu/ACE

Clip art courtesy of: http://senses.phillipmartin.info/index.htm

After my last blog article, I have been receiving requests for more focusing strategies to help challenged readers. In response, here are a few, additional recommendations that hopefully will also help many of my readers.

Because the white background of a page of text, many readers experience something called “visual stress”. This condition causes fatigue for the reader’s eyes and negatively affects the reading experience. To help alleviate this visual stress, consider changing the white ground on each page to be read. How is this accomplished? Actually, it can be quite easy and inexpensive to do this.

1. Colored overlays can be purchased for a nominal cost at some office supply stores. A specific color can provide better focusing results for a reader than another color. Some persons who report that letters or words “move” or “wave out” on a page can often read better with a deep blue or yellow overlay. Others can benefit from a green, pink or even red overlay. It is necessary to try each color until improved reading is the result or until letters and words appear “unmoving” to the reader.

2. Another approach to this same end is to try various colors of paper on which to print documents or worksheets. Some pastel shades can be helpful to many individuals. However, some readers experience improved focus and reading with brighter colors. Purchasing a ream of paper with a variety of shades is often a good idea. Try one color per week. Print documents on that one color for the period of a week before trying another color or shade. This inexpensive option can greatly decrease the visual stress for many readers and is certainly worth trying.

3. The Reading Focus Cards will also allow for changing white page backgrounds to a color of the reader's choice. At the same time, these inexpensive and sensory-appealing tools will focus the eye on one or two lines of text at a time while blocking out more surrounding text than any other reading aid available.

If none of these options help to improve an individual’s reading experience, then it is recommended that the reader visit a developmental optometrist for further evaluation and recommendations.

To read testimonials from teachers, parents and students who have used the Reading Focus Cards, please visit http://www.focusandread.com/rfc-testimonials.

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com For focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For info, resources, and support
314-892-3897

Clip art courtesy of: https://www.google.com/search?q=free+clipart+of+books&hl=en&prmd=imvns&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=cn3STsqvIIO42wWYv7jLDA&sqi=2&ved=0CEAQsAQ&biw=1264&bih=623

So often, parents will ask for strategies to help their children focus and concentrate, especially when reading or doing homework assignments. When making suggestions, I always like to start with the simple things parents can do to help. Here is just one idea that is no-cost, easy, and can be a relief to some children.

If a child is overwhelmed by too much to read on a worksheet, it is a good idea to fold the worksheet into thirds, fourths, or even eighths, if needed. That way, only what needs to be focused upon at the moment is made visible. The distracting, surrounding text is “out of sight and out of mind” for the moment.

This approach works particularly well when written directions involve several steps. It is also a good strategy for math worksheets. If a child sees 20 math problems on a sheet, those problems can appear daunting enough for the child so that he does not even want to begin the assignment. On the other hand, if the worksheet is folded, revealing only 1 or 2 problems at a time, the child can better focus with much more attention on each problem. The remaining math problems are out of sight and, therefore, not an issue of distraction, or even anxiety in some cases. As each problem is completed, re-fold the paper to reveal the other problems, 1 or 2 at a time. This strategy usually results in better accuracy, too, when the work is completed.

You might try this “win-win approach” the next time your child appears overwhelmed with an assignment that “seems too hard”. Your child just might thank you for it and use the strategy again later on his own!

For more information:
www.FocusandRead.com For focusing tools that work!
www.BrennanInnovators.com For info, resources, and support
314-892-3897