Beyond the Diagnosis: Helping Kids with Dyslexia Build Confidence and Skills

Episode Overview

In this episode of The Bylund Clinic Podcast, Dr. James Bylund sits down with Kate Feriance, CEO and co-founder of Redwood Literacy, for a practical and deeply grounded conversation on supporting students with dyslexia and other learning differences.

Drawing from her experience as both an educator and a parent of a child with dyslexia, Kate shares how Redwood Literacy was built to address a major gap: smart, capable students struggling with foundational academic skills—and families unsure how to help. 

Together, they break down what truly matters when it comes to intervention. The conversation explores the difference between research-based and evidence-based instruction, why progress monitoring is essential, and how flexibility in teaching approach can make or break a student’s success. 

Kate also offers actionable guidance for parents at any stage of the journey—from early concerns to formal diagnosis—emphasizing one key point: don’t wait to start helping your child. 

Beyond academics, the discussion highlights the importance of building confidence, self-awareness, and resilience in students with learning differences. The episode introduces the “six non-academic keys to success,” a set of traits that can be developed in everyday moments but have long-term impact on outcomes in school and life. 

The episode also takes a realistic look at the role of schools, acknowledging both their strengths and limitations, and encouraging parents to take an active, informed role in advocating for their child while partnering with educators. 

Whether you’re a parent navigating dyslexia for the first time, a professional supporting neurodivergent learners, or someone interested in evidence-based education, this episode offers clear, practical insights you can apply right away.

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute psychological, medical, or educational diagnosis or advice. Listening to this podcast does not create a clinician–patient relationship with The Bylund Clinic or any of its providers.

Redwood Literacy: Supporting Students with Dyslexia & Learning Differences

Website: https://www.redwoodliteracy.com/

Redwood Literacy is an education organization specializing in helping students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and other learning differences build strong reading, writing, and math skills. They provide both online and in-person tutoring, along with assessments and parent support programs.

Founded in 2018, Redwood’s mission is to ensure that all students with literacy challenges can access their full potential by improving skills, restoring confidence, and cultivating a love of learning.

The Bylund Clinic: Educational & Psychological Support for Children

Website: https://thebylundclinic.com/

The Bylund Clinic is a Bay Area–based practice specializing in educational and psychological services for children and adolescents. They focus on helping families understand learning differences, mental health challenges, and how to navigate school systems like IEPs.

Led by Dr. James Bylund, a licensed clinical and educational psychologist, the clinic provides comprehensive evaluations and guidance for students with neurodevelopmental and emotional needs.