Visual Methods for Visual Learners
What Is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a learning difference that primarily affects reading, spelling, and sometimes writing. It is not related to intelligence or effort. Many individuals with dyslexia are bright, creative thinkers who simply process written language differently.
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People with dyslexia are often strong visual or picture thinkers. Instead of thinking mainly in words, they tend to think in images and sensory impressions. While this type of thinking can be a great strength, it can also make learning to read more challenging because written language is made up of abstract symbols that don’t always create a clear mental picture.
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When a word or symbol doesn’t make sense, confusion can occur. In the Davis approach, this confusion can lead to moments of perceptual disorientation, where letters, words, or punctuation may appear inconsistent or difficult to interpret. This is why individuals with dyslexia may read slowly, skip words, struggle with spelling, or find small words like the, of, or because surprisingly difficult.
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The encouraging news is that dyslexia is highly responsive to the right type of learning approach. When instruction focuses on building clear meaning for symbols and words—often using visual and hands-on methods—many dyslexic learners can develop strong reading skills while also embracing the creativity and problem-solving abilities that often accompany dyslexic thinking.
"Our son worked with Emily and completed both the Davis Attention Mastery Program as well as the Davis Dyslexia Correction Program. The first time I reached out to Emily she was very responsive, organized and professional. I was hesitant to spend the time and the money on these programs. All I could think was, "If this is so amazing why doesn't anyone know about it?" Once meeting her in person there was an instant connection. When you meet her you can tell how much these programs mean to her and how much she not only believes in them, but in her clients as well. We were lucky enough to work with her for a whole month. Emily instilled confidence in our son that he never had in himself and especially not in his reading skills. He is 14 years old, he was reading at a kindergarten level at the beginning of the dyslexia program, by the end of the program he was reading at a 5th grade level."
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"During his last session I was brought into the room to learn some of the tools I can use to continue to work with Owen at home. Emily had him read for me and my eyes welled up with tears. He WAS reading!! Emily's calm, caring, compassionate energy and never ending patience is invaluable. She was also very good at gauging him, if he was tired or needed a break, she really followed his lead, but stayed on track. I can see now why she believes in these programs so much. They 100% work. It is incredible and so is she. We are fortunate enough to have gained a lifelong friendship out of it too. I highly recommend The Davis Method and Emily Nielson @ Utah Learning Solutions."
- Becca
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