Tips on How to Teach Music to Children With Dyslexia

Tips on How to Teach Music to Children With Dyslexia 

It is very important to make it clear at the start that dyslexia is not the result of low intelligence, although it is possible for someone of low intelligence also to be dyslexic. A teacher may be totally baffled by the child who does not respond to teaching methods that are successful for most of her other pupils, especially as there is no obvious reason for the pupil's lack of progress.

At the outset, it is important to begin with a subject that encourages a pupil's confidence. For example, during the first lesson why not spend some time getting to know each other and to find out what fires their imagination.

Aural tests can be given in every lesson, although the teacher can test the pupil without him even realising it. For example, when he plays a piece of music, the teacher can stop him midway and ask him to sing the last note or clap in time to the last bar.

Dyslexic pupils constantly lose their place whilst playing, either missing out whole chunks of the music, or reading the same passage twice. It can be very helpful to the dyslexic pupil if the teacher writes on the music, marking it with arrows, numbers or any sign or symbol that may be of interest to him.

We all like and appreciate praise, but we do not all necessarily need it. Pupils suffering with dyslexia do need praise. A dyslexic pupil often suffers such low esteem that simply saying "well done!" can make a difference to how he feels about himself. If his confidence improves, so may his ability.

Whatever the pupil's attitude, remember that the teacher has a vital role to play in his fight against dyslexia, and that our commitment to his progress will hopefully help him to progress satisfactorily.

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