Teaching children with dyslexia requires understanding, patience, and an arsenal of effective strategies tailored to their unique needs. Dyslexia affects how people process written and spoken language, making tasks like reading, writing, and spelling challenging. However, with the right teaching strategies, we can empower students with dyslexia to thrive academically and build confidence in their abilities. Below, are ten dyslexia-friendly teaching strategies to help students succeed in and out of the classroom.

1. Multi-sensory Learning

One of the most effective strategies for teaching students with dyslexia is through multi-sensory learning. This approach engages multiple senses—sight, sound, touch, and movement—at the same time to help reinforce learning. For example:

• Use sand trays, finger paints, or textured materials to practice letters and spelling.
• Incorporate auditory activities like clapping syllables or singing spelling rules.
• Pair visual aids like flashcards with physical actions, such as tracing letters in the air.

Multi-sensory learning allows students’ brains to process information through various channels, making it easier to retain and recall.

2. Provide Explicit and Systematic Instruction

Dyslexic students benefit from structured, step-by-step instruction that breaks complex tasks into manageable parts. Explicit instruction ensures that nothing is assumed and everything is clearly explained. For example:

• Teach phonics systematically, focusing on one sound or rule at a time.
• Model tasks before asking students to complete them independently.
• Use consistent routines to reduce anxiety and build confidence.

This method helps students understand the “why” behind concepts, making them more likely to internalize the information.

This strategy is helpful for all subjects but especially for reading. See my Comparison of the Top 4 Dyslexia-friendly Reading Programs for Parents to Use at Home here.

3. Use Assistive Technology

Assistive technology can be a game-changing strategy for teaching kids with dyslexia, providing tools that bridge gaps in reading and writing skills. Popular options include:

• Text-to-Speech Software: Tools like NaturalReader or built-in options on devices can read text aloud to students.
• Speech-to-Text Software: Applications like Dragon NaturallySpeaking allow students to dictate their thoughts instead of writing.
• Audiobooks: Platforms like Audible or Learning Ally provide access to thousands of narrated books.

These tools enable students to focus on learning content without being hindered by decoding difficulties.

Learn How to Teach Kids to Use Assistive Technology as well as my top recommendations for apps and programs here.

4. Incorporate Visual Aids

Visual aids like diagrams, charts, and color-coded notes can make abstract concepts more tangible. Dyslexic students often excel when information is presented visually rather than purely textually. Here are a few examples:

• Use graphic organizers to map out ideas and relationships.
• Highlight key text with different colors to emphasize main points.
• Replace dense paragraphs with bullet points or infographics.

Visual aids help break down information into digestible parts, making it easier to understand and remember.

5. Build a Dyslexia-Friendly Learning Environment

Creating an environment that is conducive to learning can significantly impact a dyslexic student’s experience. Consider these adjustments:

• Provide clear instruction (in writing is better) to reduce confusion.
• Allow plenty of time for reading and writing tasks (and allow the use of assistive tech).
• Have kids sit away from distractions, such as windows or noisy areas (or allow them to choose where they work best).
• Use fonts like OpenDyslexic or Arial, which are easier to read.

A welcoming learning environment encourages kids to focus on learning rather than their struggles.

6. Encourage Overlearning

Repetition is key teaching strategy for students with dyslexia. Overlearning ensures that they master skills and retain them over time. To encourage overlearning:

• Review previously taught material regularly. Expect this and don’t be frustrated by it!
• Use flashcards, apps, games, and interactive quizzes to reinforce learning.
• Integrate the same concept across multiple subjects or activities.

The goal is to create automaticity so that students can recall information without hesitation.

7. Teach Memory Strategies

Dyslexic students often struggle with working memory, which can impact their ability to follow instructions and retain information. Teaching memory strategies can help them overcome this challenge. Examples include:

• Mnemonics: Create acronyms or rhymes to remember rules (e.g., “I before E except after C”).
• Chunking: Break information into smaller, manageable parts.
• Visualization: Encourage students to create mental images to associate with concepts.

These strategies provide students with tools to improve recall and reduce frustration.

8. Foster Self-Advocacy Skills

Teaching kids with dyslexia to advocate for themselves is an essential life skill. Empower them by:

• Encouraging them to ask for help when needed.
• Teaching them to use assistive tools independently.
• Explaining their learning differences to build self-awareness and confidence.

When students understand their needs and feel confident seeking support, they become active participants in their education. To learn more about how to teach kids with dyslexia to self-advocate, read this.

9. Incorporate Movement and Breaks

Long periods of sitting and concentration can be challenging for dyslexic students (4-60% of whom may have ADHD). Incorporating movement and breaks can boost focus and energy. Try:

• Short brain breaks with stretching or physical activities.
• Movement-based learning, such as jumping to the correct answer in a game.
• Flexible seating options, like standing desks or wobble cushions. For links to some of my favorite resources for this, visit my Amazon store.

These strategies help kids reset and re-engage with learning tasks.

10. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

It’s important to recognize and celebrate small victories, which can significantly boost a student’s confidence. Focus on effort and improvement rather than perfection by:

• Offering specific, positive feedback (e.g., “I’m impressed by how you remembered that rule!”).
• Setting achievable goals and celebrating when they’re met.
• Highlighting strengths and talents outside of academics.

This positive reinforcement helps students feel valued and motivated to keep trying. To learn more about Growth Mindsets and how to teach your kids to have them, read this article.

Flexibility and Patience

Every dyslexic student is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. The key to success lies in flexibility, patience, and a willingness to adapt. By implementing these ten dyslexia-friendly teaching strategies, you can create a positive learning environment that truly supports the real educational needs of your kids with dyslexia. Remember, the goal is not only academic achievement but also fostering a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

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