Ep. 96 Spotting Early Learning Differences with Grace: Dyslexia, Autism, Speech/Language, and ADHD with Lisetta Layer

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer welcomes Lysetta Layer, a qualified instructor and certified academic language therapist, educational diagnostician, and preschool minister at Park Cities Baptist Church, to discuss early childhood learning differences and how educators can notice and support them without diagnosing. Lysetta explains dyslexia as a neurobiological difference with early indicators (e.g., spelling and word retrieval challenges, inconsistent retention, letter/number reversals), and emphasizes the value of early remediation. The conversation also touches on autism spectrum indicators, speech and language (expressive vs. receptive) concerns, and the limits of identifying ADHD in preschool. They highlight documenting observable facts, partnering with parents compassionately, and using resources like Child Find and Texas Early Childhood Intervention (birth–36 months) and public school evaluations to access support, stressing that all children are made in God's image and can meet their potential with appropriate help.

00:00 Welcome and Mission

00:49 Meet the Expert Guest

06:04 Noticing Without Diagnosing

09:42 Dyslexia and Autism Signs

30:35 Spectrums and Diagnosis

31:53 Speech Language Basics

39:04 ADHD and Early Intervention

45:07 Resources and Closing Charge

Lots of resources for this one:

ChildFind in Texas: https://www.spedtex.org/resources/child-find-frequently-asked-questions

Early Childhood Intervention in Texas - https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/disability/early-childhood-intervention-services