Table of contents for November 2025 in Brain Train

Thomas Edison, one of history's most famous inventors, is remembered not only for his incredible inventions but also for his relentless perseverance. Many historians believe Edison may have had dyslexia, which made school and reading difficult for him as a child. Instead of letting this slow him down, he used his curiosity and hands-on learning to explore the world. Edison loved experimenting, tinkering, and testing ideas, always asking questions and never fearing mistakes. This unique way of thinking helped him see solutions that others might miss and guided him toward inventions that changed the world. Edison is famously known for saying he did not fail but rather found 10,000 ways that did not work. This mindset of determination and resilience is what made him a true problem solver. Children with…

As parents and caregivers, it's natural to want to shield our children from challenges, especially when they struggle with dyslexia. We often feel an urge to step in and fix things immediately to prevent frustration or failure. However, constantly solving problems for them can unintentionally limit their development of resilience and grit. Allowing children to experience manageable struggles helps them learn persistence, problem-solving, and confidence in their own abilities, creating a foundation for long-term growth. Validating your child's feelings is an essential first step. Acknowledge their frustrations and challenges without immediately offering solutions. This helps them feel heard and understood, and it gives them space to process emotions. For example, saying, “I see you're finding this difficult, and that's okay,” can provide reassurance and support. These moments of empathy encourage…

In the digital age, technology offers creative ways for kids to express gratitude, especially for those with dyslexia. Voice-to-text apps like Voice Dream Writer and Google Keyboard assist children in articulating thank-you messages without the stress of traditional writing. These tools convert spoken words into text, enabling children to send heartfelt notes to family members or friends, fostering emotional connections and gratitude. Additionally, drawing apps such as Tayasui Sketches and Procreate Pocket allow children to design personalized digital thank-you cards. These platforms offer a variety of brushes and colors, encouraging creativity and self-expression. By combining visual art with written messages, children can craft meaningful tokens of appreciation. For parents and caregivers, these tech tools provide an opportunity to support children in developing communication skills and emotional intelligence. By integrating these…

Supporting a child with dyslexia involves more than academic intervention; it requires nurturing emotional resilience. Children with dyslexia often face challenges that can impact their self-esteem and motivation. As a parent or caregiver, your role is pivotal in fostering a positive mindset and helping your child navigate these challenges with confidence. Encouraging open communication about their feelings and experiences allows them to feel understood and supported. Recognizing their efforts, rather than focusing solely on outcomes, reinforces the value of persistence and hard work. Building resilience in children with dyslexia also involves creating a structured yet flexible environment that accommodates their learning needs. Implementing consistent routines, breaking tasks into manageable steps, and providing tools like assistive technology can alleviate frustration and promote a sense of accomplishment. It's essential to celebrate small…

Q: What is a growth mindset, and how can it benefit my child with dyslexia? A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, learning, and perseverance. In contrast, a fixed mindset holds that intelligence is static and unchangeable. For children with dyslexia, adopting a growth mindset is particularly beneficial. It encourages resilience and a positive attitude towards challenges, helping them understand that difficulties are opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. Q: How can I foster a growth mindset at home? Dr. Emily Johnson, a child psychologist specializing in learning differences, suggests several strategies: Praise Effort, Not Just Results: Focus on the process rather than the outcome. For example, say, “I admire how hard you worked on that project,” instead of “You're so…

Steven Spielberg is one of the most celebrated filmmakers in the world, but behind his success lies a story of quiet perseverance and self-belief. As a child, Spielberg struggled deeply with reading. Words seemed to move too slowly, and he was often behind in class. Teachers sometimes thought he was not trying hard enough, and classmates teased him. It was not until many years later, when he was already a famous director, that Spielberg discovered he had dyslexia. Finally, the pieces made sense. What once felt like a weakness was actually part of what made his mind so creative and unique. Instead of giving up, Spielberg found another way to express himself. While words on a page confused him, pictures and stories in his imagination felt perfectly clear. He began…

Welcome to our Learning Fun Intro, a special space where we celebrate the joy of exploring new ideas, just like enjoying a Thanksgiving feast. Just as a Thanksgiving table is full of delicious food, our section is filled with fun activities, games, and creative challenges designed to excite your brain. Kids and teens with dyslexia can especially enjoy these ideas because they are playful, hands-on, and engaging, helping them learn in ways that feel natural and enjoyable. Parents and caregivers will find plenty of tips and strategies to support learning, while keeping the experience light and encouraging. Here, curiosity is the main course, imagination is the side, and every small discovery is a treat to savor. In this section, you will find activities that stretch your mind while making learning…

This Thanksgiving, Sparkle Buds invites families to participate in a heartwarming initiative that combines creativity, gratitude, and community support. We're launching the “Thankful Trail Mix” campaign, encouraging families to craft their own unique trail mixes using ingredients that symbolize what they're thankful for. Whether it's crunchy nuts for strength, sweet dried fruits for joy, or colorful candies for diversity, each mix tells a personal story of gratitude. Once your trail mix is ready, share a photo on social media with the hashtag #SparkleBudsGratitude. This simple act not only spreads positivity but also raises awareness about dyslexia and the importance of community support. All submissions will be featured on our social media platforms, celebrating the diverse ways families express thankfulness. In addition to sharing your creations, consider donating to local dyslexia…