How to Support a Child with Dyslexia

Practical strategies to help your child with dyslexia build confidence and develop reading skills at home and school.

1. Understanding Your Child's Experience. Children with dyslexia often struggle with connecting sounds to letters, recognizing sight words, and reading fluently. They may read slowly, skip or substitute words, or have difficulty with spelling. It's important to understand that dyslexia isn't about intelligence—many children with dyslexia are highly creative and excel in areas like problem-solving, art, or verbal communication. Watch for signs of frustration or avoidance around reading tasks. Some children develop anxiety about school or begin to see themselves as "not smart." Acknowledging their struggles while emphasizing their strengths helps build a foundation for success.
2. Working with Your Child's School. If you suspect dyslexia, request an educational evaluation through your school district. This formal assessment can lead to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan that provides accommodations like extra time on tests, audio books, or specialized reading instruction. Stay in regular contact with teachers about what's working and what isn't. Many families find success with structured literacy programs that teach phonics systematically. Ask about the school's reading interventions and whether teachers have training in dyslexia-specific methods like Orton-Gillingham or Wilson Reading System.
3. Supporting Reading at Home. Create a positive reading environment without pressure. Read aloud to your child regularly—this builds vocabulary and comprehension skills without the struggle of decoding words. Let them follow along in the book or choose books slightly above their reading level for shared reading. When your child reads independently, focus on comprehension over perfect pronunciation. If they struggle with a word, give it to them quickly rather than making them sound it out for long periods. This keeps the flow of the story intact and reduces frustration. Consider audiobooks paired with physical books so your child can hear proper pronunciation while following the text. Many libraries offer these resources for free.
4. Building Confidence and Self-Advocacy. Help your child understand dyslexia in age-appropriate terms. Explain that their brain works differently, not wrongly, and that many successful people have dyslexia. Share stories of athletes, entrepreneurs, or artists who are dyslexic to provide positive role models. Teach your child to advocate for themselves by asking for help when needed and using available accommodations without shame. Practice phrases like "I learn better when I can hear the instructions" or "Could I have a little more time to finish?" Celebrate progress in all areas, not just reading. Notice improvements in effort, creativity, or problem-solving to help your child develop a well-rounded sense of their abilities.
5. Finding Professional Support. Consider working with a reading specialist or educational therapist trained in dyslexia intervention. These professionals can provide intensive, structured instruction that complements school support. If your child shows signs of anxiety or low self-esteem related to their learning differences, a child psychologist or school counselor can help them develop coping strategies and build confidence. Some families also work with advocates who specialize in special education law to ensure their child receives appropriate services at school.