Russell Van Brocklen — Rethinking Dyslexia: Why Typing, Not Tracing, Unlocks Reading and Writing

Send us a textIn this conversation, Michelle Choairy sits down with Russell Van Brocklen, founder of Dyslexia Classes, to uncover a radically different way of helping kids with dyslexia, ADHD, and learning differences thrive—by flipping traditional methods on their head and using neuroscience, technology, and writing itself as the therapy.Russell shares:🧠 A senator’s wake-up call. When a New York lawmaker discovered his daughter’s dyslexia too late for early intervention, he created the Dyslexia Task Force—and inspired a new look at what really works in literacy instruction.⌨️ Why typing beats tracing. Instead of overloading fine-motor memory, Russell’s approach builds neural bridges through typing—using repetition, self-correction, and measurable output to strengthen both spelling and comprehension.🔄 From “Orton-Gillingham or bust” to modern neuroscience. He explains why 1940s-era multi-sensory methods miss key discoveries about how the dyslexic brain processes language—and how simple tech tools can fill the gap.💡 The half-circle method. By combining reading, listening, and writing around a child’s deepest interests (Disney, animals, iPhones—anything!), parents can cut through chaos and spark genuine progress at home.💬 A parent’s perspective. Michelle shares how her son Drake’s unique learning profile reframed her belief in what literacy should look like—and why “different” doesn’t mean “less.”Quote to tape on the fridge:“We don’t need to prompt-engineer the computer. We need to prompt-engineer our brains.”Whether your child has dyslexia, ADHD, or simply struggles to get words on paper, Russell’s message is clear: with structure, curiosity, and consistency, the brain can rewire itself for success.👤 About Russell Van Brocklen A New York-based educator, researcher, and founder of Dyslexia Classes, Russell helps students and parents replace frustration with measurable progress through practical, brain-based literacy strategies.🔗 Connect with Russell 🌐 Website: dyslexiaclasses.com 💼 LinkedIn: Russell Van Brocklen#ComplexKidsSimpleSolutions #DyslexiaSupport #Neurodiversity #ADHDAwareness #ParentAdvocate #SpecialEducation #ReadingStrategies