This is a remarkable story of courage and success against the odds. Teachers need to read this. They will learn from it, and many will change their approaches to children who struggle with their learning. It became clear to Whanganui born author Sarah Platt, at a very early age, that she could not read or write as well as her peers and siblings. While Sarah did have developing literacy skills, the teaching approach of caring parents and teachers simply did not do it for Sarah. She struggled with deciphering the symbols that make up words and sentences, and her writing proved nearly impossible for others to decipher. We all know that it takes only one teacher to make a significant difference in a child’s life, and Sarah was fortunate to have one of those during her primary school years. He recognised her ability in the arts, and encouraged her to express herself through her pictures and her artistry. Sarah’s struggle continued through her Intermediate and Secondary years. She always wanted to be a teacher, but those most basic of subjects, Reading and Writing held her back at every point. She did manage to pass the critical external exams, and was amazed to be accepted for Teachers’ College. The struggle did not end there, but her tenacity got her through, with here even gaining a scholarship in her second year. Sarah became a highly successful, innovative teacher, drawing on her personal life experiences to develop programmes for all pupils, especially
those with learning challenges. The author has a refreshing honesty and humour in her writing style. She has developed the necessary skills to tell a story that needs to be heard. Even as an adult, there are so many challenges when your dyslexia gets in the way of something seemingly simple to others – like feeding a parking meter! Note to Principals: This should be essential reading for all teachers, Early Childhood, Primary and Secondary. There are heartening stories within this book of the daily struggles faced by a young person whose teachers and classmates ‘just thought she was dumb’. While enjoying success as a teacher, Sarah also nurtured a lifelong wish to develop her skills as an artist. Her art works are now well known and respected throughout New Zealand, and she has achieved remarkable success in the business world. An easy read, and an ideal book to include on every staffroom bookshelf. Available from the author: https://sarahplatt.co.nz/on-beingdyslexic
MAGAZINE You can now access the current and past issues of NZ Principal magazine online You can search by magazine issue, article name or author
visit www.nzprincipal.co.nz
Giving words a meaning
A game changer for those living with dyslexia The ReaderPen is a convenient portable tool designed to support reading and literacy – empowering students to work independently. Using the pen is super easy – simply scan your text and it will automatically be read aloud using a natural speaking voice. If you come across a word you’re unsure of, the built-in dictionary will give you definitions and examples to better build vocabulary.
Free Trials Available Scan for more information
Making positive differences to enhance lives
Please contact us to find out more about our 10 day trials.
0800 864 382 atinfo@dtsl.co.nz atstore.co.nz | assistive.co.nz