In late November, NPR’s education channel shared a multipart series “Unlocking Dyslexia.” Gabrielle Emanuel, the reporter of the series, is dyslexic and adds a personal perspective to the trials many dyslexic individuals face.

It’s well worthing listening to for an introductory glimpse of what dyslexia is and to hear from a variety of people representing different stages of life and education who are affected by this common learning challenge.

I couldn’t help but take note of how so many people expressed feelings of inadequacy Videographer Jonathan Gohrband tells Emanuel the emotional aspect of his experience growing up with dyslexia.

Gohrband recalls that when he was a child he would fantasize about not “being broken.” He would avoid telling people about it: “If they know that you’re dyslexic, they’ll think you’re dumb.”

Yet, he says, there came a turning point when the shame faded. For him, it was when he found videography. There he discovered a “language” that came easily, and suddenly his talents were visible to others.

His example is a reminder how important it is to recognize your child’s strengths and encourage their growth in those areas in addition to focusing on reading, spelling and writing.

Perhaps the very best thing about this series is that a major news organization (at long last!) has produced a featured series about dyslexia. Every bit of awareness is helpful!