For many children, a remarkable aptitude in creativity and visual-spatial skills is hidden by dyslexia. It is important to consider the strengths children have, which might not be measured by traditional academics. When a child avoids reading but excels at building or drawing or imagining, we should consider the possibility that he/she may have outstanding aptitude in that area, and find ways to encourage that.

For more on this topic, check out this brilliant book by Thomas G. West: Seeing What Others Cannot See: The Hidden Advantages of Visual Thinkers and Differently Wired Brains and the related blog.

“The more we understand about the brain’s deep resources for creativity and pattern recognition, the more we come to respect the accomplishments of our distant ancestors...The more we move into unfamiliar territory, without map or guidebook, the more we admire traditional knowledge long discounted by bookish education.” - Thomas G. West