Every child learns differently; and for some, reading and writing can be especially challenging. Dyslexia is one of the more common learning differences, and understanding it is the first step to making school life (and home life) smoother. Here’s a parent’s guide: what dyslexia is, its signs, and what you can do to support your child.
What exactly is dyslexia?
In simple terms, dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty that affects how someone learns to read and spell. It’s not tied to intelligence; many people with dyslexia are brilliant thinkers and do exceptionally well in other areas.
Some common characteristics include:
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Difficulty decoding words: struggling to match letters to their sounds
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Problems with accuracy or fluency when reading
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Challenges with spelling, writing, and sometimes grammar
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Difficulty organising thoughts or managing information
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Trouble with time management, sequencing, or staying on task
Because dyslexia can show up differently from child to child, it’s sometimes called a “hidden” condition; the struggles may not always be obvious.
Signs you might notice early on
Some early red flags (often seen in primary years) include:
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Struggling with phonics or letter–sound relationships
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Taking much longer than others to read simple words
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Frequent spelling mistakes, even in familiar words
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Avoidance of reading or writing tasks
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Trouble remembering sequences (like days of the week)
Later on, you might see:
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Labouring over reading comprehension
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Weakness in writing structure or organisation
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Slow pace when copying or taking notes
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Fatigue or frustration with reading-intensive tasks
If you see several of these over time, it’s worth exploring further with professionals.
What helps inside school
You don’t have to go it alone. Many schools, teachers, and specialists can offer support. Some useful strategies include:
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Open communication with the school: request a meeting, share your observations, and ask for a tailored plan
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Individual learning plans: these might include more time, modified assignments, or alternative formats
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Classroom accommodations: extra time, audio versions of texts, assistive technology, scribing or typing instead of handwriting
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Frequent check-ins and progress reviews: monitor what’s working and adjust as needed
Working with teachers and the school’s special educational needs coordinator (SENCO) helps ensure your child has a consistent support system.
Supporting your child at home
Home is where your encouragement can make a big difference. Here are strategies you can use:
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Build small habits: try 5–10 minutes of reading each day
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Use multisensory learning: combine visuals, sounds, hands-on tools (e.g. magnetic letters, apps)
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Read together: choose enjoyable books and read aloud, alternating pages or lines
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Spell strategically: focus on high-use words, use memory aids, break words into chunks
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Praise strengths: find areas where your child shines (art, music, sports, creativity) and encourage those
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Stay patient and consistent: progress may be gradual, but small steps add up
Getting support for you as a parent
It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or uncertain. You don’t have to navigate this alone. Here’s how to look after yourself:
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Connect with other parents: peer support groups can be a source of ideas, empathy, and encouragement
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Learn more: read, attend workshops, or consult specialists to understand dyslexia better
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Celebrate progress, not perfection: every small breakthrough is a step forward
Final thoughts
Dyslexia isn’t a label meant to limit — it’s a tool for understanding and supporting how your child learns. With knowledge, patience, and the right strategies, children with dyslexia can thrive academically and personally.
