Reading Mates recently moved into Witton Barracks. We sat down with Jill Hamilton to find out more about her work supporting children with literacy difficulties.
Jill Hamilton first became interested in dyslexia when she came across a young student in Year 3 who couldn’t write her name correctly.
“She was bright and bubbly but couldn’t read nor write much at all despite the best efforts of her worried parents and teachers,” Jill recalls. “That experience sent me back to university on a path to explore more about how we learn to read and to find better ways to help children who find it difficult.”
It is estimated dyslexia affects at least 10 percent of the population according to Australian figures, although overseas figures suggest it may be even double that. Although the community is more aware of dyslexia these days, there are still many children who are undiagnosed and others with more severe dyslexia who need specialist support.
Dyslexia doesn’t just affect reading, spelling or writing – it can also impact other areas of a person’s life like sequencing the months of the year or organising daily routines. It often occurs with conditions like ADHD as well, so each child needs an individualised program.
“When I’m teaching a child who’s struggling with dyslexia, I’m conscious they may be anxious and feeling very uncomfortable about trying to learn skills which have been difficult for them to master,” Jill says.
“It’s really important to base the activities in their plan at their level and around their interests where possible so they feel engaged and experience success – and gain confidence in themselves as a learner.”
Jill was looking for an office space when the parent of one of her clients saw Witton Barracks on the internet and suggested it might be a good fit for her.
“Witton Barracks is a good option for me. It is close to most of my clients’ schools and my students can walk or catch the train here independently. Parking is available for the parents and the facilities are great” she says.
“My students think my office space is a very ‘cool’ place to have lessons.”
Visit the Reading Mates website to find out more.
