Dyslexia and The Film Producer

"Dyslexia can be seen less as a learning disability and more as an indicator that someone learns more effectively through different means."

I just had an article forwarded to me regarding Steven Spielberg, a very talented and creative film producer, director, screenwriter...and as of late a video game designer. He created blockbuster movies such as Jaws (50 year anniversary this year!), E.T., Close Encounters...and the list goes on and on.

A creative visionary that brought to life a diverse range of films that made him very successful, he was tested later in life...in his 60's, and was found to indeed be dyslexic.

It all fell into place for him. He had spent his childhood not being able to read... each day he had to read aloud in front of his classmates would be "another long day in the series of the worst days of my life.” He of course was teased endlessly, and a few of his teachers referred to him as "lazy."

Thank goodness his parents were devoted to helping him as much as they could. Dyslexia was not recognized in this era.

He found an alternative way to bolster his self confidence....he made movies. The young Spielberg began telling stories with a Super 8 movie camera. It was his creative escape.

He found his passion and unlocked the key to expressing his creativity through not reading...but making visual stories. And, he's a darn good one a that!

Recent views on dyslexia, including my own, offer a distinct perspective on its impact on a person's abilities. Much of education focuses on learning through reading, but other significant learning methods are often ignored and underestimated.

Dyslexia can be seen less as a learning disability and more as an indicator that someone learns more effectively through different means. Individuals with dyslexia often excel at viewing things from a broad perspective, without being sidetracked by minor details.

Their enhanced ability to think visually, in multiple dimensions, and narratively can foster more creative thinking.

Many of the children I work with are of a creative bend. They love art, love color, working with different mediums. They are quick to come up with solutions for any sort of mechanical/procedural issue that I might present to them. Some are highly social, often the older students are amazing with vocabulary (they have developed high vocabulary from listening to stories read to them or through audio books). They ask really, really good questions...inquisitive. They can describe something they have experienced "in technicolor." This is just the short list...not limited to!

While learning to read and spell, they need to be exposed to all sorts of stimulus....to recognize and begin honing their interests. I sometimes have a landscape drawing on my TV-screen monitor (yeah, I still do some of that) and I let them move symbols around...some are very interested in it. Some of my kids have been amazing Lego engineers.

Spielberg offers guidance for those with dyslexia: “You are not alone, and although dyslexia will be with you throughout your life, you can navigate through challenges to reach your goals. It will not hinder you.”

Amen, Mr. Spielberg. That Super 8....unlocked your Magic!

agic!