Lexercise: The Tool You Need for Your Struggling Reader
It can be worrisome if your child struggles with dyslexia or other reading, spelling, or writing challenges, especially if you’re homeschooling. You may not know where to turn for help. I’ve been in that situation, so I understand. I’m glad to say I’ve found a resource that addresses these reading concerns and is designed for homeschool families: Lexercise.
Recognizing Reading Challenges
Teaching our children to read is one of the most exciting things we do as homeschool parents, in my opinion. I remember teaching my daughters to read not so long ago. I was thrilled to be a part of that process when they read their first words, then their first books. Reading is really the key to unlock all education and it’s wonderful when things just click for them.
In all honesty, it doesn’t always just click for everyone in the same way at the same pace. That’s to be expected with all learning milestones. However, when you begin to recognize signs that your child is struggling with reading, spelling, and writing, it can be very worrying.
When my youngest daughter was learning to read, she had some challenges. I noticed that she was sometimes reversing letters, like “d” and “b” when she wrote. I also noticed that she rushed by trying to sound out words the way I was teaching her to do. She preferred to guess rather than slow down. There were strategies that I used with her older sisters that just weren’t working in the same way for her.
Even as a seasoned homeschool mom at that point, I had to convince myself not to panic. I didn’t want to rush her before she was ready, but I also didn’t want to leave her with a discouraging experience with learning to read. It’s times like these that can make you feel isolated as a homeschool parent. When you realize your child might have a learning difficulty like dyslexia, you don’t have the built-in support system that public school offers. You may not know where to turn or how to get a diagnosis — or if you even need a diagnosis.
I’m glad to say that I found an excellent resource for struggling readers, spellers, and writers designed specifically for homeschool families: Lexercise.
What is Lexercise?
Lexercise is a web-based platform rooted in evidence-based practices for literacy intervention. It is designed to address a wide range of reading and writing difficulties, including dyslexia, through personalized instruction and support. The platform draws from the principles of Orton-Gillingham methodology, a renowned approach known for its multisensory and structured techniques.
Tailored Instruction for Every Learner
One of the standout features of Lexercise is its emphasis on individualized instruction. Upon enrollment, each student undergoes a comprehensive assessment to identify their strengths, weaknesses, and specific areas of need. This assessment serves as the foundation for developing a customized learning plan tailored to the student’s unique learning profile.
Multisensory Learning at Its Best
Lexercise harnesses the power of multisensory learning, engaging students through visual, auditory, and kinesthetic methods simultaneously. Lessons are designed to be interactive and engaging, utilizing a variety of multimedia tools to reinforce key concepts. From phonological awareness activities to word decoding strategies, the information is presented in ways that will work for any preferred learning style.
The lessons are reinforced and gamified by the practice games, which are meant to be done 4 days per week.
What is the Orton-Gillingham Method?
The Orton-Gillingham method is a structured, systematic, and multisensory approach to teaching reading, spelling, and writing skills. It is specifically designed for individuals with dyslexia, a learning disorder that affects reading and language processing.
Key features of the Orton-Gillingham method include:
- Multisensory Approach: Instruction engages multiple senses simultaneously, such as visual, auditory, and kinesthetic, to reinforce learning and memory.
- Structured and Sequential: Lessons are carefully structured and progress systematically, starting with basic phonological awareness skills and gradually advancing to more complex language concepts.
- Individualized Instruction: Lessons are tailored to the specific needs of each learner, allowing for personalized remediation and reinforcement of skills.
- Explicit Instruction: Concepts are taught explicitly, with clear explanations, modeling, and guided practice to ensure understanding and mastery.
- Phonics-Based: The method emphasizes the systematic teaching of phonics, including letter-sound correspondences, syllable types, and word decoding strategies.
- Continuous Assessment: Progress is continuously monitored, and instruction is adjusted accordingly to address areas of difficulty and build upon strengths.
Lexercise does an excellent job of incorporating all of the above in their platform.
Flexibility and Convenience for Homeschooling Families
For homeschooling families, flexibility is key. Lexercise recognizes this need and offers a flexible learning environment that fits seamlessly into the homeschooling routine. With 24/7 access to online resources, families can design their own schedule and pace, empowering them to take control of their child’s education while receiving expert guidance every step of the way.
Tracking Progress and Celebrating Success
Central to the Lexercise experience is the ongoing monitoring of student progress. Through the Lexercise Parent Dashboard, parents gain valuable insights into their child’s growth and development. Milestones are celebrated, achievements are recognized, and any areas of concern are promptly addressed, ensuring continuous improvement and success.
Unlocking the Potential of Every Child
Helping kids reach their full potential through personalized learning is the ultimate goal in homeschooling. With Lexercise, homeschoolers have access to a powerful tool that not only addresses literacy challenges but also fosters a love of learning and a sense of confidence in their abilities. With customized instruction, multisensory learning, and flexible scheduling, families can unlock the door to literacy success.
Why Homeschoolers Should Use Lexercise
I have been very impressed with Lexercise. It is thorough and effective for struggling readers, writers, and spellers across a wide range of ages.
The reasons I recommend it include:
- Lexercise respects homeschool families. They provide the resources to “train the coach” before each lesson. This means that a homeschool parent is fully prepared to teach the lesson effectively with no guesswork. It’s not only reassuring as a parent, it’s also affirming of the choice to homeschool and teach your own child.
- Lexercise is flexible. It’s self-paced, meant to be used at your choice of schedule. They recommend 4 days per week for the practice games, but each lesson itself is broken into doable chunks of about 10-30 minutes once per week so it’s not overwhelming. This helps both child and parent avoid frustration.
- Lexercise uses the Socratic method of learning, which I appreciate very much. It involves careful listening and discussion. I think that’s the best way to learn!
- Lexercise includes multiple ways to learn. There are printable resources, like flashcards, as well as games in the student portal. These are in addition to the standard lessons that you complete with your child. There is no shortage of optional resources and lessons to include as well.
- Lexercise is supportive and encouraging. It provides the tools and the instruction for any parent who wants to teach their own child with the support they need for reading challenges. In addition to that, you also have access to a certified professional any time you have a question. That relieves the feelings of worry and isolation I mentioned earlier.
- Lexercise is thorough and effective. I can’t imagine a more comprehensive, well-rounded resource for anyone struggling with dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia. It is organized, easy to navigate, and easy to use for both parents and students.
With its innovative approach to instruction, commitment to individualized learning, and dedication to student success, Lexercise empowers homeschooling families to overcome reading, writing, and spelling challenges in a very positive and dynamic way.
If you have questions about reading challenges with your child, be sure to do your free dyslexia screener today and get the answers you need!
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