A Dyslexic Family Diary

Dorothy Tod Films

This film chronicles a mother's eighteen- year struggle with the politics of teaching reading to get an education for her bright dyslexic son -- navigating the waters of special ed., whole language and phonics. Dorothy Tod, the filmmaker/mother's approach with the school, is challenged by the very different perspective of her husband, a lawyer and former school board member. In a surprising twist, Dorothy discovers that she too has dyslexia, although it had not been diagnosed during her own school days.

Dorothy's son, Ben, was on the verge of suicide by the end of the sixth grade. How does an undiagnosed dyslexic mother deal with the confusing issues that emerge when a child is diagnosed with dyslexia? What are the options, pitfalls, the family patterns, the lifelong prospects for the child? This documentary explores the gift as well as the difficulties that come with dyslexia - how it plays out in educational systems, legal and health systems, work, family, marriage and daily life.

Louisa Cook Moats, a respected voice in the field of teaching reading, is also part of this family's story. This intimate portrait of the filmmaker's family uses clips from former award-winning films, family photos and videos to bring a human face to the teaching of reading, IQ testing, IEP's and SAT's.

53 min. Video or DVD. Sale $295. Video rental $75.

Western Psychological Association, 2001
Hon. Men., New England Film Festival, 2000
Boston Film/Video Foundation Award, 2000
Green Mountain Film Festival, 2000
Hon. Men., Columbus International Film & Video Festival, 2000
Western Psychological Association, 2001

"It's a wonderful addition to our library." Vermont Parent Information Center