Families across Littleton Public Schools recently had the opportunity to step into the shoes of a reader facing challenges during the district's first “Inside the Reading Experience” family literacy night, an interactive event designed to deepen understanding of reading challenges such as dyslexia.
The event, sponsored by the LPS Foundation, welcomed approximately 125 parents, caregivers, and students for an evening focused on literacy, empathy, and resources to support students with reading.
One of the most powerful elements of the evening was a dyslexia simulation, where participants attempted reading experiences designed to mirror the challenges some students experience when processing and decoding text.
For many attendees, the experience was eye-opening. “I had no idea it felt like this,” one participant shared. Others described how the simulation helped them better understand what their children may face in the classroom: “I tried the best that I could and I still couldn’t figure out how to read that.” Several parents said the experience helped them better understand dyslexia beyond common misconceptions: “For me, it’s definitely eye-opening. I thought it was just jumbling of letters, but it can be [in] very different formats,” one parent explained.
For families who already have children navigating reading challenges, the event offered validation and new tools for advocacy. “It helped me to know how to advocate for my child. Now I have the language I need to ask for what she needs,” one parent shared.
For one participant who is dyslexic, the event created an especially meaningful moment: “I am dyslexic and I’m really, really happy my family members can experience [what it’s like for me].”
In addition to the simulation, the event featured tables hosted by partnering organizations, where families could learn about literacy supports and community resources. Attendees also had the opportunity to browse tables filled with free books, helping families continue building strong reading habits at home.
Throughout the evening, families explored strategies for supporting literacy development while connecting with educators and community partners committed to helping every student grow as a reader.
Many participants left with a deeper appreciation for the complexity of reading and for the perseverance students demonstrate as they build their skills.
LPS hopes events like “Inside the Reading Experience” will continue building understanding, strengthening partnerships with families, and celebrating the progress students make on their literacy journeys.
