We are on day 3 of using the Text To Speech program. So far she has increased the length of time and number of words read each day. Today she even asked if she could read more. (Like she had to ask!!!) She’s really excited about using this to get her reading done and wants to do it first thing every day. Lets hope for continued success. :)
Re: just an update on Text to Speech
Excellent news! I love to hear about times when our kids get excited about learning and engaged by what they are doing. Great job!
Can you let us know which text-to-speech program you are using and which your voice your daughter prefers? (i’m always curious!)
Karen
Re: just an update on Text to Speech
The program is called Natural Reader - http://www.naturalreaders.com/ - the voice that she likes best is AT&T’s Mike but she doesn’t mind AT&T Crystal.
I’m continuing to be amazed at how well this is going. She has been averaging at least a chapter a day for the last 4 days. This is the most consistant, sustained attention she has ever had and I’m not even getting arguments from her about reading! She has also started using the reader for looking at web pages instead of calling me to read things she can’t get.
Re: just an update on Text to Speech
Scifi,
That is so wonderful - to me as an educator, it’s all about independence and promoting a love for learning! Sounds like this is the right strategy for your daughter and having her learn it during the summer when there is no academic pressure is the perfect time! Thanks for keeping us posted.
Shaywitz, in her book Overcoming Dyslexia, talks about the importance of using assistive technology as an accommodation for people with reading disabilities so you are in good company!
Awesome :-) Sounds like you’ve hit on the right accommodation at the right time! Keep on keepin’ on …