Are you a homeschool parent wondering about the best way to teach your child with dyslexia to read? You’re not alone! When I first started homeschooling nearly 30 years ago, I tried pretty much every reading curriculum out there. The thing is, traditional reading methods don’t work for kids with dyslexia, leaving parents frustrated and children discouraged. But here’s the good news: with the right homeschool reading curriculum, you can teach your child to read—at home, at your pace, and in a way that works with how their brain learns best.

In this post, we’ll explore why conventional reading instruction falls short for dyslexic learners, what to look for in a homeschool reading curriculum, and how to choose the best one for your family. We’ll also point you to our in-depth comparison of the top 4 Orton-Gillingham-based homeschool reading programs to help you take the next step.

Why Traditional Reading Methods Don’t Work for Kids With Dyslexia

Most public and private school reading programs rely on what’s called a “whole language” or balanced literacy approach. These methods emphasize exposure to books, memorizing sight words, and using picture and context clues to guess at unknown words. While this can work for neurotypical readers, it completely misses the mark for students with dyslexia.

Kids with dyslexia need explicit, systematic, and multisensory instruction in how language works. This includes:

• Phonemic awareness – understanding and manipulating individual sounds in words
• Phonics – learning the relationship between letters and sounds
• Decoding – sounding out unfamiliar words in a logical way
• Spelling – applying sound-symbol knowledge in reverse
• Fluency and comprehension – reading with understanding and flow

Without a structured approach that builds these skills step-by-step, dyslexic learners often fall further behind, despite being bright and capable.

You Can Teach Reading at Home—Even With Dyslexia

If you’re wondering whether you’re qualified to teach your dyslexic child to read at home, the answer is yes. You don’t need a teaching degree—you just need the right tools and a willingness to learn alongside your child.

In fact, homeschooling can be the best environment for a dyslexic student. Here’s why:

• Individualized pacing: You can slow down or speed up based on your child’s needs
• One-on-one attention: No distractions, no stigma—just support
• Built-in review: Revisit lessons as many times as needed
• Emotional safety: Your child can feel secure and encouraged rather than ashamed or “behind”

With the right curriculum, you can confidently provide reading instruction that actually works.

What to Look for in a Dyslexia-Friendly Homeschool Reading Curriculum

Orton-Gillingham-Based

There are many reading programs on the market, but not all are designed for struggling readers or those with dyslexia. Here’s what to look for:

Orton-Gillingham (OG) is a time-tested, research-backed approach designed specifically for dyslexic learners. It’s structured, sequential, multisensory, and cumulative. Programs based on OG methodology are ideal for homeschooling dyslexic students.

Multisensory Instruction

Look for programs that incorporate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities. This could include letter tiles, tapping out sounds, or writing in sand. Multisensory instruction helps the brain create new pathways for reading and spelling.

Explicit & Systematic

The curriculum should teach phonics rules directly and in a logical order. No guessing, no assuming kids will “pick it up.” Dyslexic learners thrive when instruction is clear and concise.

Built-In Review & Mastery-Based

Dyslexic students need frequent review and practice to master concepts. A good program won’t move on until skills are solid and automatic.

Parent-Friendly Design

As a homeschool parent, you want a curriculum that teaches you how to teach your child. Look for clear scripts, video support, or easy-to-follow lesson plans—even better if they offer community or customer support.

Our Top Picks: Orton-Gillingham Reading Programs for Homeschool

If you’re wondering where to start, we’ve got you covered. On our site, we’ve created a detailed comparison of the top 4 Orton-Gillingham-based homeschool reading programs. You’ll find side-by-side reviews, pros and cons, and guidance on how to choose the best fit based on your teaching style, your child’s needs, and your budget.

These programs include:

• All About Reading
• Logic of English
• Barton Reading & Spelling System
• Reading Horizons at Home

Each of these is grounded in OG principles, but they differ in how they’re structured, how much parent prep is required, and what extras they offer. Whether you’re looking for something open-and-go or a fully comprehensive program, this guide will help you decide.

Read our full comparison of the top 4 Orton-Gillingham homeschool reading programs here.

You are able to teach your kids with dyslexia to read

Choosing a homeschool reading curriculum for a child with dyslexia can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel or try to mimic school methods that weren’t working in the first place.

You need:

• A proven, structured approach like Orton-Gillingham
• A curriculum that’s designed for homeschoolers
• The belief that you can do this—with time, patience, and the right support

You’re not just teaching reading. You’re building your child’s confidence and giving them the tools they need to succeed—for life.