Why Orton Gillingham may not be the best way to teach your dyslexic child to read- and what to use instead

In this episode of Days with Dyslexia, host Michelle Morgan, a speech-language pathologist, discusses the differences between speech-to-print (sounds first) and print-to-speech (print first) literacy instruction. She explains why traditional Orton-Gillingham methods may not be the most effective for all children, particularly those with dyslexia. Michelle outlines five key differences between a sounds-first vs. print-first approaches, including scope and sequence, teaching the job of each letter, handling irregular words, spelling patterns, and the role of letter names and sounds in writing. The episode aims to help parents understand why a sounds-first approach can be more effective and introduces resources for further guidance.

00:00 Introduction to Days with Dyslexia

00:37 Understanding Orton-Gillingham

02:07 Speech to Print Instruction

02:38 Simplifying Terms: Sounds First vs. Print First

03:27 Advantages of Sounds First Approach

04:07 Five Key Differences Between Approaches

04:14 Scope and Sequence

05:46 Teaching the Job of Each Letter

07:09 Irregular Words Instruction

09:01 Spelling Patterns and Syllable Division

13:21 Writing and Sound Association

14:50 Conclusion and Resources