5: Dyslexia, Reading Struggles, and Helping Kids Build Confidence with Anne Wahlgren

Dyslexia, Reading Struggles, and Helping Kids Build Confidence with Anne Wahlgren

Robyn talks with dyslexia advocate Anne Wahlgren about early signs of dyslexia, common reading misconceptions, and how parents can support struggling readers without damaging their confidence.

In this episode, I’m joined by Anne Wahlgren, dyslexia advocate, educator, and parent coach, for a conversation that I think will be incredibly valuable for any parent who has concerns about their child’s reading development. Anne shares her journey from classroom teacher to becoming a passionate advocate for children with dyslexia and literacy challenges. Along the way, she has helped countless families better understand how children learn to read and how to support them when reading does not come easily.

We talk about what dyslexia actually is and some of the common misconceptions that often leave parents confused. One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation is that reading to your child is wonderful, but it is not the same thing as teaching a child how to read. Anne explains why foundational literacy skills matter so much and how avoidance, frustration, or resistance around reading can sometimes signal a deeper issue that deserves attention.

Throughout the episode, we explore practical ways parents can support reading development at home without turning reading into a battle. Anne shares why play-based learning can be so effective, how games can help children build skills and confidence, and why it is important to meet each child where they are instead of forcing a one-size-fits-all approach. We also discuss the importance of early intervention and why it is never too late to seek support if a child is struggling.

One of my favorite parts of this conversation is how Anne reframes dyslexia. Rather than viewing it as a deficit, she encourages parents to recognize the unique strengths that often accompany dyslexia, including creativity, problem-solving, and big-picture thinking. The conversation offers a hopeful perspective while also providing practical tools families can use right away.

By the end of this episode, I hope parents feel more informed, more empowered, and less afraid to trust their instincts if something about their child’s reading development feels off. Support exists, progress is possible, and every child deserves the opportunity to experience success and confidence as a learner.

Shared Resources: 

• Anne Wahlgren’s Website 
• Follow Anne on Instagram @printableparents
• Follow Robyn on Instagram @parentingtheanxiouschild 
• Parenting the Anxious Child Membership
• Sign up for Robyn’s Newsletter and find additional resources