#86: What to Say to Parents After a Dyslexia Diagnosis with Rebecca Bush
When You Know Something’s Wrong—But Don’t Know What to Say
I still remember the first time a parent sat across from me in tears, clutching a dyslexia diagnosis report thicker than a chapter book. She whispered, “Why didn’t I see this sooner? Is it my fault?”
I froze.
I wanted to say something helpful—something comforting—but all I could think was, “I’m not an expert. What if I say the wrong thing?”
If you’ve ever felt that same knot in your stomach, you’re not alone. In this episode of the podcast, licensed dyslexia therapist Rebecca Bush helps teachers understand exactly what to say to parents after a dyslexia diagnosis—and just as importantly, what not to say. You’ll walk away with scripts you can use, strategies that build trust, and renewed confidence that you don’t have to be the expert—you just need to be present.
What Teachers Can Say When a Child Is Diagnosed with Dyslexia
When a child is diagnosed with dyslexia, families are often overwhelmed. They’ve suspected something was off for a while, and now they have a formal diagnosis—often buried inside a 30-page report filled with unfamiliar language. Many parents walk into your classroom feeling scared, confused, and unsure of what this means for their child’s future.
That’s where you come in.
Even if you’re not a dyslexia specialist, your response matters more than you think. What you say in that first conversation can either empower a family or send them deeper into fear.
Instead of labeling, Rebecca recommends focusing on observable facts and next steps. For example:
“Here’s what I’ve noticed in your child’s reading development…”
“This is what we’ve tried so far, and what we’re thinking next…”
These types of responses validate the parent’s concern without making promises or crossing into territory that’s outside your role as a classroom teacher.
Actionable Strategies to Support Families Without Overstepping
Let’s face it—many general education teachers aren’t trained in dyslexia intervention. But that doesn’t mean you can’t offer meaningful support. Here’s how to make a big impact with simple shifts:
Start with Clarity, Not Labels
Don’t say “I think it’s dyslexia.” Instead, talk about the child’s specific reading behaviors and learning needs. Keep the conversation rooted in what you see and know.
Know Your Campus Support Chain
Before sitting down with a family, make sure you understand:
- Who handles evaluations or referrals on your campus
- What services are available (Tier 2 or Tier 3 intervention)
- Where you can direct families if your school doesn’t offer dyslexia services
And if there’s no one on your team who specializes in dyslexia, refer families to local or national organizations like:
Build Trust Before It’s Urgent
One of the best ways to support families through a dyslexia diagnosis is to build rapport before there’s a crisis. You can:
- Call home just to celebrate a win
- Greet caregivers warmly at pick-up or school events
- Reach out early if you notice reading challenges
This makes those tougher conversations feel less intimidating—because the relationship is already strong.
In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
- The exact language to use when a parent brings you a dyslexia diagnosis
- How to avoid common mistakes teachers make when responding
- Where to send families when your school can’t provide direct support
- What to do for students who are “on the bubble” but not yet diagnosed
- Why every teacher needs a basic understanding of dyslexia intervention
Bringing It All Together
You don’t need to be a dyslexia therapist to be a source of calm for a worried family. You just need to listen, lead with empathy, and know what to say next. With the right support systems and simple shifts in language, you can turn a moment of fear into a moment of partnership.
When you know what to say to parents after a dyslexia diagnosis, you help pave the path toward action, understanding, and hope.
Want More Support? Join The Science of Reading Formula
Inside The Science of Reading Formula, you’ll learn how to confidently support struggling readers—even if you’ve never had formal training in dyslexia intervention.
With step-by-step routines, classroom tools, and practical coaching, you’ll turn what you know into what you do.
Links
Rebecca Bush Website / Instagram / LinkedIn
“Dyslexia and Your Newly Diagnosed Child” by Rebecca Bush
International Dyslexia Association
ALTA Academic Language Therapy Association
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!
WHAT TO LISTEN TO NEXT
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