MARI Kits

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MARI Kits I created M.A.R.I. Kits to provide helpful tools recommended by experts for dyslexic children K-3rd. My project, called M.A.R.I. I made M.A.R.I. Kits. M.A.R.I.

I am now helping to educate parents on the importance of early dyslexia screenings for their children who may show signs.💜 My name is Mariana, and I started this page as part of my Silver Award Take Action Project for Girl Scouts, the second-highest award. Kits, stands for "Making Awesome Reading Improvement." I created these kits specifically for children in grades Kindergarten through 3rd grade who struggle with dyslexia—a challenge I understand personally, having been diagnosed in the 2nd grade. I'm continuing my efforts and now working towards my Gold Award, the highest honor in Girl Scouts, by partnering with The DePaul School for Dyslexia. For my Gold Award project, I aim to help identify children with dyslexia through early screening so that they can receive the support and accommodations they need in school as soon as possible. Along with this, I will be educating parents of preschool children. It's crucial that parents are well-informed and have access to resources early on. Even though screening cannot be conducted until the child is 5, understanding the importance of early education and having the right resources can make a significant difference in a child's academic journey. I don’t want any parent to feel lost, so providing them with information and education early is essential to my project. Thank you for joining me on this journey to make a difference for children with learning differences!

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My name is Mariana. For my Silver Award Project, the second-highest award in Girl Scouts, I'm going to be helping children who are having problems with their dyslexia and providing them with some helpful tools recommended by experts to use as they learn to overcome it. stands for "Making Awesome Reading Improvement". Thanks to all my generous Sponsors - Columbia Restaurants Group, Julie Weintraub's Hands Across the Bay, Rice Psychology Group, TLC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, and Target. These kits will be given to United Way Suncoast to have available to children (Kindergarten through Third Grade) that attend their reading rooms or resource centers in the future that have dyslexia and are struggling to read. Dyslexia hits close to home and I am very passionate about it because I was diagnosed with dyslexia in 2nd grade and know firsthand how difficult it is to have learning problems associated with dyslexia. For me, my parents were very diligent in seeking input from experts in this area and searching out tools that would help me not only cope with my dyslexia but also thrive as I continued to learn instead of continuing to struggle. I know how lucky I am to have had access to these simple tools and I want to give that opportunity to other young learners who may be having some of the same challenges that I had. In these kits, are tools that helped me deal with my dyslexia and will hopefully help them deal with theirs too. I know having dyslexia can be very hard especially for children that are just learning how to read. My plan is to help those children so that reading can be so much easier and that they can learn to love reading!!

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06/11/2026

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𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱? It's simple! You can transform the lives of children in Kindergarten through Third Grade with ...
03/21/2026

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱? It's simple! You can transform the lives of children in Kindergarten through Third Grade with in your community by creating your own M.A.R.I. Kit and personally donating it to your local elementary school. 💜
Each M.A.R.I. Kit includes the following helpful tools that can be found on Amazon or a retail store near you:
1️⃣ 𝙇𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙏𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙨: These tactile tiles provide a hands-on experience, helping children build words and enhance their spelling skills.
2️⃣ 𝙉𝙤𝙞𝙨𝙚 𝘾𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙥𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨: By reducing auditory distractions, these headphones create a focused learning environment for children with dyslexia.
3️⃣ 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙈𝙚 𝙋𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚: A specially designed device that amplifies sound, enabling children to clearly hear themselves while practicing reading and speaking.
4️⃣ 𝙒𝙝𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝘽𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘿𝙧𝙮 𝙀𝙧𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙧: A versatile tool for practicing letter formation, word recognition, and other interactive activities.
5️⃣ 𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙃𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙎𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙥: This transparent strip helps children stay focused by isolating text and reducing visual overload while reading.
6️⃣ 𝙋𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙞𝙡 𝙂𝙧𝙞𝙥𝙨: Ergonomically designed grips promote proper pencil grip, aiding in handwriting and improving overall writing skills.
7️⃣ "𝘼𝙡𝙥𝙝𝙖𝙗𝙚𝙩 𝙒𝙖𝙧𝙨" 𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠: An engaging storybook designed specifically for children with dyslexia, helping them navigate their unique learning difference!
🤩 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚, 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙖 𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙝 𝙗𝙖𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜!
✨Then come back to this post and share a picture of your M.A.R.I. Kit in the comments below!
Kindness Warriors, together, we can make a real impact and ensure every child with dyslexia has the opportunity to thrive academically and emotionally! 🤩
Join the M.A.R.I. Kits Movement today and spread 📣 the word! Share this post, tag your friends, and let's make a difference together! 💜

I'm so grateful to serve on the Board of Trustees for the DePaul School of Dyslexia, and to be a part of its important m...
03/14/2026

I'm so grateful to serve on the Board of Trustees for the DePaul School of Dyslexia, and to be a part of its important mission. 💜

As we continue celebrating Women’s History Month, we’re proud to highlight Mariana Gillen-S.

Years serving 2026-2028

Mariana began serving children with dyslexia at just 13 years old by creating M.A.R.I. Kits—resources designed to give children with dyslexia the tools and confidence they need to learn in ways that work best for them.

As someone who grew up with dyslexia, Mariana understands firsthand what it feels like to struggle and to think differently. Through her journey, she discovered that dyslexia isn’t a weakness—it’s a superpower. It allows individuals to think creatively, see solutions others might miss, and approach the world in unique ways.

Now at 19, Mariana continues sharing her story to help children and families recognize the early signs of dyslexia and to remind every child that their mind is powerful.

Her message to every child she serves:
“Your dyslexia is your superpower.”

Thank you, for inspiring the next generation and empowering young minds.





𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠.𝗔.𝗥.𝗜. 𝗞𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗠𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁! 🩶💜While we don't create the kits to be sold, I have compiled this list to enable you to...
03/11/2026

𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠.𝗔.𝗥.𝗜. 𝗞𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗠𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁! 🩶💜
While we don't create the kits to be sold, I have compiled this list to enable you to purchase these items directly from Amazon for your child or a child important to you. This list includes all of the items that I have included in each M.A.R.I. Kit. ⚠️IMPORTANT NOTE: I do not receive any commissions or funds from Amazon and Lakeshore Learning if you purchase from this list. It is simply intended to provide a way to access all of the great tools that were included in each M.A.R.I. Kit.

Noise Canceling Headphones Kids Adult Earmuffs Shooting Ear Protection -
https://www.amazon.com/ProCase-Protection-Headphones-Adjustable-Professional/dp/B07MNZ7C1M/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.k0F-0AHktv9JSErkLJBYAO_jeXf-rO7LAccWnWx7PyiC0hq2Ob0L9bvAkSweZ5u-j0yP5wYh4uZsOtTVbU_Rw__9sqa0bTOr85qNwTIFBNj4Dk2VLIEulSHkWpyb_PepXWARuJ2_hKH3PSxEVaDEAPlhicBKaw2gr-F_f0wiFh-ZEUks4Wu1g4EZdo3bd2VGazHg42CLGJkbj5urK1KEoA.DCJJSidLM3bGBHQs_QByWhYVpA8Rm3UloiMlVpuDQ1Q&dib_tag=se&keywords=Noise+Canceling+Headphones+Kids+Adult+Earmuffs+Shooting+Ear+Protection+-&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1773187682&sr=8-1

Word Building Tiles Extra St. -
https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/.../word.../s/GG954

Hear Myself Sound Phone -
https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/.../hear-myself.../s/EE538

Write - Wipe Lapboard -
https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/.../write-wipe.../s/KC60

Expo Low Odor Dry Erase Marker -
https://www.walmart.com/.../Expo-Low-Odor-Dry.../20896131

Reading Guide Highlighter Strips -
https://www.amazon.com/Highlight-Overlays-Colorful-Bookmarks-Dyslexia/dp/B09SHHVFG6/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TMq2IZD9syIg_8cqx671jn56FdjZX0pg2fxfc6mMxl8-d1yp-mRFcGFWgK8VBj5HCfV-wqv-fkXzAiCbKMYkG4n2-FbrCjQj7p-rN3sc_oR1a7zn706nUUedvxYleh3gvWfu5LNjAnSnZgubs65remKPSA-f9dmHfu_BfoIJbhyo3jfaJA8XlxNEsc4oQ-1SNza3X-TQ5OxRuDls7MsqcRM48b6vD_CYGVvfPwWCVxqStllwGx3E953Bfj4V36tWeAAj6qsG43Kfp4UXv3BxyeOUH-R9n1CWYrSFyXXajBM.5HqXO0xCLL7PIhyuT_k5CpvyILpKko_E500heGYDPiQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=Reading%2BGuide%2BHighlighter%2BStrips&qid=1773194289&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1

MLife Pencil Grips - set of 10 per package
https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Handwriting-Pencils-Supplies-Pen/dp/B07Q87FFDR/ref=sr_1_2?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.PSq4XrjPokpx_wirtZbrRf3rMKV01QxGxNaMQ2_FPVcbh91jfr29Y3lYcWFY9utuKj8ZCJaCkTEA4UTd-z8KLXF9aAJOPDh4XIA4PkU91tI1gbqO358ETh_XnmVKWIBc3hswMCYHzUlki3MTXtU1FmcJdAcqj5tKWK2i4mMIGJgzGk9S8g417Ou2HiomP4laCx6OSx7eNBqLkP-vYhX4ZmLoGFYajnsUcvxOUHVO6_w0DOzntzZxG9Yev-DrKe7L7lPZrcmmU-EbOm5Huru5-QWoAGaYTu2A1QG76FZce88.Z1xzfzoCvGQD-IkskAmK6R1BFFgSJDUtP7cNg1fZGAs&dib_tag=se&keywords=MLife+Pencil+Grips+-+set+of+10+per+package&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1773194358&sr=8-2

The Alphabet War A Story about Dyslexia - paperback
https://www.amazon.com/Alphabet-War-Story-about-Dyslexia/dp/0807503045/ref=asc_df_0807503045/?tag&linkCode=df0&hvadid=344057861673&hvpos&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8101793132283343036&hvpone&hvptwo&hvqmt&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl&hvlocint&hvlocphy=1015172&hvtargid=pla-454177354692&psc=1&ref&adgrpid=69543896872&fbclid=IwY2xjawJOoEZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHZBRGDjaYZT0IQgT6jlygZcPsXsmsmPhk4T1A8RWNcSQFigpiqNTxaY_UA_aem_F9uzK6uO4Tfnm8VzrdsmxQ

Want to learn more about the early signs of dyslexia? Visit www.SignsOfDyslexia.org for resources and support. 💜

I received a really unexpected surprise in the mail today — a letter from President Donald J. Trump recognizing my work ...
01/22/2026

I received a really unexpected surprise in the mail today — a letter from President Donald J. Trump recognizing my work supporting children with dyslexia through M.A.R.I. Kits.

This project started because I care deeply about kids who learn differently and deserve the right tools, encouragement, and early support. Dyslexia should never be a barrier to confidence or success, and I’m grateful to everyone who has supported M.A.R.I. Kits and helped make this work possible.

I’m honored by the recognition and even more motivated to keep going.

You’re powerful. You’re unique. You’re unstoppable. 🤩Let’s empower every individual with dyslexia to reach their full po...
01/03/2026

You’re powerful. You’re unique. You’re unstoppable. 🤩
Let’s empower every individual with dyslexia to reach their full potential.🩶💜
Learn more about how you can support this important initiative and help make a significant difference in a child’s life at www.SignsOfDyslexia.org

01/01/2026
Every month, every day, we navigate and thrive. Spread the message! 🩶💜Learn more about how you can support this importan...
12/28/2025

Every month, every day, we navigate and thrive. Spread the message! 🩶💜
Learn more about how you can support this important initiative and help make a significant difference in a child’s life at www.SignsOfDyslexia.org

Wishing everyone a season filled with peace, joy, and meaningful moments. May this holiday season be a time to celebrate...
12/25/2025

Wishing everyone a season filled with peace, joy, and meaningful moments. May this holiday season be a time to celebrate together and share warmth and goodwill with others. 🌟💜

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