Thanksgiving and Dyslexia go hand in hand more than you might think. This season isn’t just about pumpkin pie and turkey (though those help!) It’s about pausing to notice progress, persistence, and the unique ways each of our loved ones shines. As families gather and teachers reflect, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the incredible growth of students with Dyslexia and Dysgraphia, who show us that learning differently often means thinking brilliantly.

I’m Jess Arce, America’s Dyslexia Expert, and every November, I’m reminded how much gratitude in learning can transform both attitude and achievement. Whether it’s a student finally reading a full paragraph out loud, spelling their tricky sight words correctly, or handwriting a full story for the first time, these moments are pure magic.

When we focus on progress instead of perfection, we create a classroom and home environment that fuels confidence. Gratitude helps us see beyond test scores—it helps us notice effort, creativity, and resilience. That’s where true growth begins.

When it comes to Thanksgiving and Dyslexia, both teach us to slow down and appreciate the journey. Students with Dyslexia, Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia often work twice as hard to show what they know, and that determination deserves recognition.

This Thanksgiving, as we share stories around the table, let’s remember that every challenge a child faces is also an opportunity for growth. Like learning to cook a complicated recipe, literacy skills develop step-by-step—with patience, encouragement, and lots of practice (and maybe a few laughs along the way).

Teachers and parents who model gratitude show students that it’s okay to take their time, make mistakes, and celebrate effort as much as outcomes.

What I love most about this season is how gratitude seems to uncover the amazing talents tucked inside every learner. The Dyslexic student who struggles with spelling might be a budding storyteller. The child with Dysgraphia who avoids handwriting may have a visual memory that turns facts into vivid pictures.

When we focus on strengths, we remind our students and ourselves that brilliance takes many forms. Thanksgiving reminds us to express gratitude not only for what’s already been mastered but for the gifts that are still unfolding.

Looking for hands-on ways to celebrate Thanksgiving and Dyslexia while building confidence and connection? Here are a few creative gratitude crafts your family can enjoy together. These activities aren’t just fun—they help kids express themselves, strengthen fine motor skills, and reflect on their growth.

Thankful Feathers:

Cut out colorful paper feathers and have each child write or draw something they’re thankful for—like a new skill, a kind friend, or a favorite teacher. Attach the feathers to a paper turkey for a cheerful Thanksgiving centerpiece.

👉 For printable turkey templates, check out Crayola’s Thanksgiving Crafts for Kids

Gratitude Garland:

Use string, clothespins, and paper leaves to create a garland of thankfulness. Each day leading up to Thanksgiving, add a new leaf with something your child appreciates about learning or family life.
👉 Find fun leaf patterns and ideas at PBS Kids Crafts

Kindness Rocks:

Collect small rocks, paint them bright colors, and write encouraging words like “Brave,” “Creative,” or “Reader.” Place them around your neighborhood or school garden to spread positivity.
👉 Learn how to make your own at Kindness Rocks Project

Memory Jar of Gratitude:

Decorate a jar with stickers and ribbon. Each family member writes down moments of gratitude or success throughout the week. On Thanksgiving Day, read them together and celebrate everyone’s progress!
👉 For more DIY gratitude activities, visit Scholastic’s Family Gratitude Projects

As we celebrate Thanksgiving and Dyslexia, let’s make room for both gratitude and growth. Everyone teaches us something powerful: progress is personal, and success doesn’t always look like perfection.

So, this Thanksgiving, let’s give thanks for curiosity, creativity, and the courage to keep learning. Because every student who learns differently makes the world a more thoughtful, imaginative, and compassionate place.