E Q U I L I B R I A
Child and Family Psychological Services
‘When I visualise words, I can spell them easily and I can remember them for a very long time’
– Ben aged 12
Visual Spelling
can be used as a strategy to help children and young people improve spelling, reading, memory, study skills and dyslexic symptoms.
The approach was developed by Olive Hickmott and Andrew Bendefy in the UK
www.seeingspellsachieving.co.uk
For this approach in Asia, Shona has successfully completed a programme of training with ‘Seeing Spells Achieving’ (2007-2008)
Recommended reading:
‘Seeing Spells Achieving’
by Olive Hickmott and Andrew Bendefy
(published by MX Publishing. A New Perspectives book) 2006
‘Overcoming Dyslexia’
by Sally Shaywitz, M.D (published by Vintage books) 2005
‘Mind Maps for Kids’
by Tony Buzan (published by Harper Thorsons)
The skill of visualising words can be taught to children and young people in a very short period of time. For some children, being shown how they are able to visualise words is sometimes enough for them to incorporate this skill and use it as a strategy to help with reading, spelling, memory etc. For other children, ongoing support and teaching may be needed to develop and consolidate the skill.
An Initial Session with one follow up session is offered to all students who are interested in learning this strategy. The need for further support and teaching will be decided between the psychologist, the child and family.
Parent workshops are offered to introduce parents to this approach so that they are able to help their children learn a new strategy which compliments other strategies they are introduced to at school. Teachers, teaching assistants and tutors may also find these workshops helpful.