A researcher and author will host a series of workshops to help parents and teachers support children with dyslexia.

The Bermuda Centre for Creative Learning announced that Peter Bowers, the founder of WordWorks Literacy Centre in Ontario, Canada, would present “Words Make Sense: Helping Students with Dyslexia Thrive” on September 26 and 27 at the BCCL Student Centre on Cedar Avenue in Hamilton.

A spokeswoman for the charity said the workshops would be based around Dr Bowers’s research on Structured Word Inquiry, “an evidence-based approach to teaching reading, spelling and vocabulary”.

Dr Bowers said: “I’ve spent my career showing teachers, parents and students that English spelling isn’t irregular or random — it makes sense.

“When students, especially those with dyslexia, are given tools to study words through meaning and structure, they not only build skills but also rediscover joy and confidence in reading and writing.”

The series will start with an adults-only parent information session between 6pm and 7.30pm, which will offer information about SWI and strategies to support children.

The following day comes with a professional development workshop between 9am and 3pm, open to public and private school educators who teach Primary 4 and above.

The professional development workshop will give educators an opportunity to learn SWI principles and practise classroom strategies.

Cindy Corday, BCCL cofounder, said: “We are thrilled to bring Dr Bowers to Bermuda at such an important time.

“October is Dyslexia Awareness Month and these events are part of our ongoing work to equip families, schools and communities with the tools they need to understand and support diverse learners.

“Dyslexia is not a barrier to success — with early identification and evidence-based teaching, children can flourish. At BCCL, we see this every day.”

It is estimated that one in five children internationally have a learning difference, with dyslexia being one of the most common.

Jane Vickers, director of advancement and communications, said Dr Bowers’s visit was made possible through the support of Ascot Bermuda.

While the event is free, space is limited and registration is mandatory.

• For more information, or to sign up to take part, visitwww.bccl.bm