Visual Scanning and Reading

One weakness that my dyslexic kid has, is their ability to visually scan for words. This skill is often needed in real life when you need to look at a an article or text , and find relevant information. Most of us scan the work for a relevant word. We don’t read the entire thing, we can scan for the topic word we need, then pause to read more about what we are looking for information on. However, the eye strength needed to do this is also what is needed for being able to read longer passages.

The game we have been using for this skill is Codenames or Codenames Duet if only two of us are playing. In the game, you and your child are spies. One of you gives hints and the other decodes them to find the spies represented by certain code words. The game works on listening, logic, and problem solving as well as needing to visually scan the words laid out for the game.

The original Codenames game is designed for playing in teams of 2 or more, and is great for groups. We have adapted it to play with three, but you have to leave out the competition of the game and just play cooperatively. I don’t mind that.

I have found this to be a fun way to work on reading as well as verbal reasoning. While you can play competitively, I prefer to emphasize we either both win or lose the game because we worked together. This method helps kids deal with the feelings of winning and loosing better.

What if They Can’t Read?

Codenames Pictures

Codenames now has a picture edition that you can get! I have not played this version, but it looks like a great way to work on verbal skills and reasoning with younger students. The goal of visually scanning for the right picture and finding the right answer is still there, just without reading. If you worry your child may be dyslexic, this is a great way to work on some underlying skills they need without the stress of reading! I am a big fan of games that don’t require reading, as they not only work for kids who struggle, but also work well for a range of ages.

Why This Works

Too often when a kid shows signs of a learning disability, we jump into focusing on how to work on that specific skill. However, skills like reading and writing are very complex. They require eyes, brains and bodies to be ready. Playing games like this can help prepare your child without the tears and stress of endless reading or writing practice.