Experiencing Dyslexia: A Hands-On Simulation Workshop for Families and the Community

As part of its commitment to education and advocacy, Educational Pathways Academy, a private school for dyslexia and learning disabilities in Florida, hosts a free annual Dyslexia Simulation Workshop for EPA families and the broader community. This impactful event provides an evening of learning, empathy, and connection.

This year’s Dyslexia Simulation Workshop, led by our Head of School, campus principals, and specialized Orton-Gillingham instructors, invited participants to rotate through interactive, hands-on stations designed to simulate the real challenges faced by students with dyslexia. At each station, attendees navigated the reading and writing struggles students encounter, while facilitators introduced classroom pressures such as time constraints, criticism, and other stressors, to simulate the emotional challenges of learning in an unsupportive environment.

Through these powerful simulations, guests gained a deeper understanding of both the academic and emotional experiences of dyslexic learners. For the parents and family members of students with dyslexia, the evening was especially meaningful, offering new insight into the daily experiences of their children and reinforcing the importance of compassionate, specialized instruction.

Dyslexia is the most common learning difference, affecting one in five individuals. Through experiences like our Dyslexia Simulation Workshop, we hope to help families and the community gain a deeper understanding of students’ experiences and a greater ability to support their learning and growth.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us this year, and want to give a special thanks to our dedicated principals and faculty for making this workshop a success!