Grow-up with dyslexia in the 1980s, I always felt different. Children in my class bullied me, I was always in trouble with teachers and I grew-up believing I was the problem. It was only when I had my little girl and she started showing signs of dyslexia, did I start to understand. That sadly being dyslexic had effected everything for me. Impacting on my self-confidence, mental health and ability to make friends. Even now when I meet new people, start new jobs, I don't expect to be liked and feel I have to prove myself.

It is so sad that a child could grow-up feeling the way I did and my fear is that my little girl would grow-up feeling the same. I kept all my feelings to myself as a child, in them days mental health was never talked about. I know that talking about what I was feeling would have helped. If I had someone to challenge my negative thoughts, to show me that my dyslexia was not a problem. That I could do still do things, I just needed teaching in a different way.

Stinking Thinking Card Mental Health

The Mooki Cards contain a “Stinking Thinking” card. Use the card below with the child, to start talking about their feelings.

This card is based on scientific research, "Cognitive Behaviour Therapy NHS".

Challenge Negative Thoughts & Self-Beliefs

• Dyslexic children can struggle to learn, falling behind in class. Other children can bully them, they can feel mis-understood and different. All these negative experiences can lead to anxiety and depression.
• Mental health issues can appear as negative, intrusive thoughts. The child may suffer from low self-esteem, believe negative things about themselves. They may struggle to make friends and believe they have no future.
• Talking therapies can be used to help improve mental health. Encouraging the child to talk about their experiences, feelings, in a compassionate environment. These negative feelings can then be challenged and more positive views, solutions offered. Improving the child's mental health, by encouraging them to think more positively.

Learn more about helping children with mental health, "NSPCC Children's Mental Health".

Start Talking Improve Mental Health

Top Tips Dyslexic Mum

• Know the Signs - If the child is acting very hyper, unfocused, mis-behaving, this can be a sign of anxiety. They may instead be very withdrawn, tearful, saying negative things about themselves. All signs of depression. Changes in sleep, eating patterns can also be clues they are struggling mentally.
• Be patient - The child may not want to talk about their feelings, may feel ashamed about struggling. Be patient, let them know you are there for them. Simple things like smiles, cuddles and spending extra time with them can do this.  
• Start Talking - Share your stories about when you struggled as a child to open a conversation. You could talk via texted message, if the child is really struggling to speak. Be calm, compassionate and listen. Show the child you care and want to help them.

All the cards are available as part of a "Mooki Cards". Complete with 56 cards and storage wallet. Perfect for using at home or in the classroom. Order your "Mooki Cards" here!