Issue 20: March 2024 Dystinct Magazine
Dystinct Magazine's 20th issue: March 2024 covers inspirational stories from children and adults with learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dysgraphia and dyspraxia) and evidence based articles from leading specialists from the field of learning disabilities.
Table of Contents
How To Access Dystinct Magazine
How To Access Dystinct Magazine
👉 Read further below to access all the content of the magazine on the website layout. Check links to each article in Topics covered.
The magazine can be accessed on your mobile and tablet devices.
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👉 Google Play Store - Android devices
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On The Cover
On The Cover
On the cover is Kenley McKenna.
From overcoming reading struggles to becoming a national champion baton twirler, a student ambassador for the Reed Charitable Foundation, and Miss Jacksonville's Teen 2024, Kenley McKenna's story showcases determination and triumph.
Topics Covered
Topics Covered
The March 2024 issue of Dystinct Magazine brings to you:
Zahra Nawaz
This article celebrates the lifetime dedication of Pat Jones OBE to dyslexia advocacy and education as she retires, offering a heartfelt tribute to her remarkable efforts in advancing awareness and support for dyslexic individuals.
Flynn Eldridge
Young journalists Flynn and Ava Eldridge have a chat with Pat Jones, Founder of The Bristol Dyslexia Center and The Belgrave School, about her work and life as she prepares to enter retirement.
Kathleen Seeman
Kathleen Seeman delves into the pervasive issue of reading trauma in U.S. classrooms, shedding light on the profound PTSD symptoms experienced by struggling readers, advocating for effective reading instruction to mitigate long-term consequences and enable individuals, schools, and communities to thrive.
Zahra Nawaz
From overcoming reading struggles to becoming a national champion baton twirler, a student ambassador for the Reed Charitable Foundation, and Miss Jacksonville's Teen 2024, Kenley McKenna's story showcases determination and triumph.
Carrie Cherney Hahn
Carrie Cherney Hahn explores the transformative power of collaboration between caregivers and service providers in achieving optimal outcomes for children, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and partnership.
Alistair Sims
Alistair Sims, a dyslexia advocate and scholar, overcame personal and professional challenges to establish Books on the Hill, an independent bookshop specializing in dyslexia-friendly literature, and BOTH Press, a publishing house dedicated to producing dyslexia-friendly fiction for adults, earning recognition for his resilience and community impact.
Sarah Wedderburn
Sarah Wedderburn delves into the transformative potential of games in aiding students struggling with math, highlighting how they reinforce mathematical concepts, foster a positive learning environment, and enhance the overall learning experience for students.
Melissa Packwood
Melissa Packwood provides insights into understanding the causes of oppositional behaviour in children, offering proactive support strategies and emphasizing positive traits to empower parents and professionals in guiding children towards success.
Jeffery Hutchinson Fay
Jeffrey Hutchinson Fay, a dyslexic artist hailing from Salem, Massachusetts, reflects on his path to artistic success amidst educational hurdles, showcasing resilience and the transformative power of embracing dyslexia as a strength rather than a setback.
Editor's Note
Editor's Note
Try your best to be kind, but you don't have to be liked.
As we celebrate the incredible contributions of Pat Jones upon her retirement, her words strike a chord in me. Advocating for children within a system often resistant to acknowledging and supporting their challenges is undeniably challenging. It often leads us to be labelled as 'that parent.' While many teachers genuinely care and do their best, they operate within a rigid system that leaves little room for kindness towards children who don't fit the standard mould. Yet, as parents, we can intentionally practice and model kindness in our advocacy efforts. Kindness and providing access to information, rather than resorting to snark or criticism, are more likely to build a collaborative relationship with teachers. Or we can try our best, as Pat puts it.
This issue, which coincides with Pat's upcoming birthday, celebrates Pat's remarkable legacy as she approaches retirement. Pat's tireless dedication and passion have touched countless lives, from parents navigating the challenges of advocating for their children to educators striving to create inclusive environments. Through her work, Pat has inspired a new generation of parents to embrace kindness, advocacy, and resilience in supporting children with learning differences. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to flourish as the torch is passed on to the next wave of parents, who are empowered by Pat's example to champion their children's rights, amplify their voices, and foster a culture of acceptance and understanding.
Happy Birthday, Pat, and thank you for your enduring impact on the lives of so many families and communities!
Please get in touch with me if you have any feedback, ideas, or stories to share to change the narrative surrounding learning disabilities.
Get in touch with me at Zahra@Dystinct.org
Thanks
Zahra Nawaz Shafeeq
Extracts from the Magazine
Extracts from the Magazine
Featured Illustrations
Featured Illustrations
