Tag Archives: January 13 Meeting

By that, of course, we’re talking about two things:

1. Our first meeting and showing of “The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia” film on January 16; and,
2. The Olentangy Dyslexia Network (ODN).

Yes and yes.  Everything we have read about the film has praised this for being a positive movie.  In fact, here’s my take.  Some days when I’m in the weeds of dyslexia with my child, I could use a little ray of sunshine.  I’m sure my child could, too.  For as much I struggle with her dyslexia at times I have to remember that it is way worse for her.  Apparently, that’s what this movie provides: It shows more of the positive side of dyslexia.

On January 16, I’ll be viewing this film for the first time with my 9-year-old dyslexic daughter and her younger 7-year-old sister.  Maybe our house is different.  Every day our world is dyslexia.  We talk about it openly, we wear it with pride and we speak opening about how hard it is sometimes.  We own it entirely and for all it is.  That, we figure, is the best shot of harnessing dyslexia: By taking the offensive and defining it before it defines you.

So, for my child, I think it will be great for her to see it.  It will continue the discussions on dyslexia that we have always had and my hope is that it will provide her some comfort, just like the Olentangy Dyslexia Network will.

As for your child, well, we’ll always add the disclaimer that it’s your choice.  If you opt to have your child skip it, you can still bring them to all or part of the activities for children that will take place thanks to the OHS Service Club.  Think about it and consider what you think makes the most sense for your family and what you are ready for right now.  Also, do your due diligence and check out the attached film trailer and see what you think, too.

Now, as for #2 above, ODN is for kids just as much as it is for the adults.  We want our children to find a place of openness and acceptance.  More than that, we want them to see themselves for as awesome as they are and to become leaders in this network.

So, is it fit for kids?  All of it?  Yes, we think so.  Bring yours.  You’ll have plenty of company and there are new friendships to be had.  We look forward to yours.

It’s here: Our big announcement!

On January 16, the Olentangy Dyslexia Network (ODN) will hold its first meeting.  In fact, it’s also a bit of a kickoff, you could say.  We are pretty excited!

Here’s the skinny.  ODN will show the new film, “The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia” followed by a panel discussion of area experts.  We have packed the panel with field experts in reading difficulties, dyslexia, tutoring, special needs and so on.  You’ll be able to ask questions and have them answered.

It’s a pretty big deal. Here’s what you need to know.

• What:  Screening of “The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia” (52 min); Panel Discussion to follow (1 hr)
• When:  January 16, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
• Where:  Olentangy High School in the Theater, 675 Lewis Center Road
• Babysitting:  Free and provided by OHS Service Club, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
• Who:  It’s for everyone.  In fact, this event is especially for you if your child has dyslexia or reading difficulties.

Here are a few more things to think about.

Is the film for kids?

That’s up to you.  Everyone who has seen the film has stated that it is a movie that talks about more than just the deficits of dyslexia.  It hits on the positives, too.

They have also said that their kids loved seeing the film.  In fact, I’ll be letting my 9-year-old child sit through this movie with me which means we will both be seeing it for the first time together.  It’s always your call, but it could make for a great discussion with your child.  I’m also hopeful, that with my own child and any others that may see it, that they feel like they are not alone.

Not interested in having your child see the movie or sit through the panel discussion but want to bring them along?

We’ve got you covered on that, too.  Your child is welcome at any point to attend the free babysitting activities hosted by the OHS Service Club.

Is this just a dyslexia film?

No.  This event, the film and group are for anyone who has a child with a reading difficulty.  Some network members have a child with a dyslexia diagnosis, others do not.  So, no matter where you are on that spectrum, you are in good company.

Tell me more about this film.

The film is directed by James Redford, son of actor Robert Redford.  James has a dyslexic son of his own who is now in his 20’s.  James stated about the film,

Had I seen this movie when Dylan was functionally illiterate in 4^th grade, I would have been spared an extraordinary amount of anxiety about the future.

In fact, I’ve attached (at the end of this entry) a brief interview that James offered regarding the movie.  Just click to access it.  Also, please check out the “The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia” web site.  These are all great resources.

Are you sending anything out beyond this notice?

Absolutely!  We’re working on that but right now our main goal was to simply make sure that we have our “ducks in a row” with the planning and to make sure that you are the first to know.   Done and done!

Now, there are a few organizations that we would like to take a bow.

First, a huge thank you to COBIDA. That’s our Central Ohio Branch of the International Dyslexia Association.  They are providing the showing for us at no cost.  They sure have made this process much easier.

Also, we owe a big thank you to the Olentangy Local Schools, to the Parent Program Team and to the OHS Service Club.  They have all shown their support in different ways.

Well, that’s the rundown as of November 29.  Please mark your calendar and spread the news by using the FB share link below!

Are there any other details or questions that we missed?  Let us know!  You can also tell us how excited you are.  That would be fine, too.