On Monday 28th September, The Offaly Dyslexia Group finally landed on their feet – and this time they were running! The original eleven children and two of our original tutors were joined by an additional seven children plus two new tutors.
Following enrolment and a short talk by group chairman David Walsh, programme co-ordinator Elaine Loughman welcomed the children with the promise of “…lots of fun tonight!”
Like the pied piper Elaine led a lively bunch of children off to one classroom; where as a group they participated in introductions and arts & crafts.
One of the main aims of the group is to introduce new learning styles. Most of these have been applied to some degree within mainstream education, however a distinct lack of resources limit their application.
Children with dyslexia learn differently from other children. The use kinaesthetic (the physical body), tactile, visual, aural, verbal and other styles of learning are applied within the workshop programme.
Special emphasis is placed upon social learning styles. This includes some ‘down-time’ where workshop participants can enjoy playing a (educational!) game or two. One of the positive effects of the Offaly Dyslexia Group workshops is that its pupils are often reluctant to leave at the end of the workshops. It’s not all fun and games, but it sure helps!
The Offaly Dyslexia Group would like to thank the board of management and staff of Geashill National School. We would also remind parents that we have a website https://offalydyslexiagroup.org where further information may be found. Enquiries regarding enrolment can still be made on our advice line: 086 2309009.