Aamir Khan says son Junaid has dyslexia: Why this learning challenge is most misunderstood but can be managed well

Indian Express

a day ago

Actor Aamir Khan has finally been candid about son Junaid's struggle with dyslexia, a neurobiological learning disability that affects the reading, spelling, and, by extension, writing abilities of the child. He admitted his son's challenges inspired his 2007 film Taare Zameen Par, which mirrored some of his own helplessness and frustration as a parent. He has focused on children with special abilities yet again in its sequel, Sitaare Zameen Par, which releases this week.
'When parents hear that their child has dyslexia, they are often overwhelmed, not by the label itself, but by the uncertainty of what comes next. It also opens up a series of questions: What next? Who will help my child? How can they succeed in school and life?', says Priyanka Mehta, senior special educator, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai.
What are the myths around dyslexia?
This condition is often misunderstood as a problem of intelligence. It is, in fact, a specific learning difficulty that affects reading, writing and language processing. It does not reflect a lack of intelligence. Children with dyslexia often have unique strengths like creative thinking, problem-solving and strong verbal skills. The goal of intervention is to unlock this potential through personalised strategies that address both academic and emotional needs.
What are tools that manage this condition?
Structured phonics, or the sound of letters, guided reading and repetition help children decode language in a way that suits their learning style. However, academic support is only one part of the puzzle. Many children with dyslexia struggle with emotional regulation, low self-esteem and anxiety, especially when they feel they are falling behind their peers.
Behavioural therapists step in to work on these areas, helping children understand and express their emotions, build resilience and develop social skills. Sessions are designed to be encouraging and interactive, allowing the child to gain confidence through small, consistent achievements.
What about life skills training?
Children should be gently guided to master everyday tasks, from organising schoolwork and managing time to handling money or navigating social situations. These skills enhance independence and reduce the emotional burden of day-to-day challenges.
How soon should the child be introduced to therapies?
Early intervention often yields quicker progress, but even adolescents can benefit from well-planned, goal-driven therapy.
How can you help your child at home with spelling, handwriting and reading?
Reading must be more than just recognising words — it needs to be meaningful. This means helping the child connect words to ideas, stories, emotions and experiences. Simply reading aloud isn't enough. Parents should turn reading time into a bonding activity that encourages interaction, builds comprehension and nurtures a love for language.
Parents need to understand specific techniques, such as using prompts to check understanding, encouraging predictions, relating stories to the child's life, and pausing to explain tricky vocabulary. Choose age-appropriate books with large fonts and short sentences. Read aloud together and track words with a finger or reading strip. Audiobooks can also help build comprehension and vocabulary without the stress of decoding.
Break down words into syllables and use phonics-based spelling techniques. Encourage the use of tactile learning (e.g., writing letters in sand or with finger paints). Repetition using word games or flashcards helps build familiarity.
While writing, focus on grip and posture. Use lined paper and guides to help with spacing and alignment. Introduce tracing exercises and allow extra time for written work. Short, daily handwriting practice with breaks can reduce frustration.
These tools are not meant to replace therapy, but to support it by reinforcing skills in a low-pressure home setting.
How do you mainstream children with dyslexia?
One of the more significant challenges remains the traditional schooling system, which is often not equipped to support diverse learning needs. So children are sometimes unfairly labelled as lazy or inattentive.
Ultimately, managing dyslexia is not about fixing a child, but it's about recognising their unique way of learning and providing the tools, guidance, and encouragement they need to succeed.
How can you break down tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks?
Use visual aids to help your child understand concepts and connect them to pictures or symbols. Use assistive technology like word processors with spell-checkers and autocorrect features, or text-to-speech software. Engage your child in interactive activities.
Recognise and build upon your child's strengths and interests, which can help them feel more confident and motivated. Acknowledge your child's efforts and celebrate their successes, even small ones.
By working together, parents, teachers and specialists can help children with dyslexia thrive academically and emotionally, and build a positive self-image.