Welcome

DSF Literacy and Clinical Services has provided vital support to West Australian children and adults with learning disabilities for over 40 years. It remains committed to improving the level of support provided to children and adults with learning disabilities and to the community's understanding of specific learning disabilities, in particular dyslexia.

DSF continues to focus on ensuring that children and adults with learning disabilities are supported adequately and appropriately, and that all students are provided with the opportunity to achieve their potential. In addition it provides advice and support to families and educators on successful literacy acquisition, evidence-based practice, and the strategies most likely to improve literacy outcomes for all students. Our role includes supporting and advising students, adults and families directly, as well as indirectly through the support and advice provided at a school or employment level.

DSF provides a number of services, including the provision of psychological services; professional learning courses; workshops for parents and students; yearly memberships; a bookshop and library.

DSF Literacy Programs - Partnering with Schools

Exciting Programs Underway in 2010 Thanks to United Way

In 2010, DSF Literacy Services will be running two programs aimed at improving the literacy skills of Western Australian students, thanks to generous funding provided by United Way. One program provides the opportunity for parents of junior primary school aged children to learn about improving early literacy skill development through games and exciting activities. The Boost program includes a hands-on full-day parent workshop and a set of practical and enjoyable take-home materials including games, colourful reading books, a comprehensive information booklet and a DVD. The second program is a spelling intervention targeted at improving the spelling skills of students in Years 10 to 12. The Word Science program makes word learning fun and interesting! It is based on current research evidence regarding best-practice teaching of literacy skills. Word Science includes an emphasis on phonemic awareness, word origin and morphology and aims to get students excited about spelling!

Both programs have been trialled and feedback from teachers, parents and students has been very positive. This is a fantastic opportunity for schools to extend and improve their school approach to literacy.

We are currently looking for schools to partner with DSF in running these programs in 2010 and 2011.

Bookshop Specials

SPECIAL

For a limited time you can purchase the Nessy Deluxe Learning Programme,
recently updated, for the special price of $230. That is a saving of $50 from the RRP!
Please order online through the webstore or call DSF to order now!!

DSF Second-Hand Book Exchange

DSF Literacy Services intend to establish a used book and computer program facility for low-income earners who require tutoring resources to assist themselves or their children.

The Second-Hand Book Exchange program will benefit low income earners and their children who require tutoring resources, but are unable to purchase them at full cost. Priority will be given to Health Care Card holders but others may also be eligible. Families may be identified by school staff or by self-referral.

If you feel you would benefit from this program/initiative, or know of a family that would benefit, then please contact DSF for an application form.

In addition, we are seeking donations of books, computer programs, and other literacy teaching materials in good condition. For a list of the resources that will be accepted and then made available to approved applicants, please contact DSF on 9217 2500 or at support@dsf.net.au

Our Online Bookshop is now in operation!

Click here to check it out! or use 'Online Store' button on the menu at the top of this page.

A 5% Member discount applies to all purchases from our Resource List. If you are a current DSF Member, your coupon code should be on your Membership Card. Please contact DSF on (08) 9217 2500 for enquiries.

DSF Products Now Available!

Please click here to see a flyer about available products made exclusively by DSF.

Learn to Read, Read to Learn Powerpoints and Reports

In September 2009, Sir Jim Rose gave a presentation for education professionals. The reports and powerpoint presentations previously located here, have now been moved to the following location: DSF Services, Professional Learning, Learn to Read, Read to Learn 2009. Shortcut: click here.