Dyslexic strengths
It is often said that no two dyslexic people are alike, and, therefore, it would be misleading to suggest that all dyslexic people share the same kind of strengths. Nonetheless, there are particular areas in which many dyslexic individuals excel. These include:
- Visual thinking
- 3D thinking
- Thinking ‘outside of the box’
- Seeing the ‘Big Picture’
- Problem solving
- Good imagination
- Creativity
- Good oral skills
The varied range of dyslexic strengths means that the list of famous and successful dyslexics is long and impressive, covering areas including science, inventing, exploration, art and design, architecture, business and entrepreneurship, acting and entertainment, writing, and music.
The challenge for the teacher of dyslexic pupils is to identify their strengths and to help them maximise these to achieve their potential.
There are numerous examples of video work by dyslexic people available on You Tube, and these are great sources of inspiration.
Also, look at websites dedicated to the many positive aspects of dyslexia, e.g.
The Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity
and the publications:
Positive Dyslexia by Roderick Nicolson (2015)
The Dyslexic Advantage: Unlocking the Hidden Potential of the Dyslexic Brain by Brock Eide (2011)
