10 dyslexia reading aids to help kids read and write

Dyslexia reading aids can help dyslexic children read and write more easily. There are many dyslexia reading and writing aids available to help dyslexic children learn. Including coloured filters, scanner pens and text to speech software that can be used in the classroom as reasonable adjustments. Below are the top dyslexia reading aids and online programmes to help dyslexic kids learn better.

Top 10 dyslexia reading aids free and affordable

Listed are the top 10 dyslexia aids to help a dyslexic child read, write, and spell better. While technology can become expensive, these aids remain accessible, as all of them are free or affordable.

1. White board – Simply wipe clean the whiteboard or chalkboard. The child can use it to write words and then check the spelling with an adult before writing the word down on paper.

2. Ruler – It can be used as a dyslexia reading aid. A plain, simple ruler used for measuring, this can help a dyslexic child track and focus on what they are reading when faced with a block of text.

3. Multi-sensory aids – Coloured pens, paints, pasta shapes. Anything that a child can see and touch, can be used to spell out new words. Dyslexic children learn to read, write spell better with multi-sensory learning.

4. Large letters – Making sure that the size of the letters in books, on the computer screen is large, with big spaces between words and lines. This can help a dyslexic child read better.

5. Font type – There are type fonts that are considered to more dyslexia friendly, easier for dyslexic children to read. Changing the font on a computer, or when printing worksheets may help.

6. Accessibility features – All phones, tablets and computers have accessibility settings built-in, usually found in the setting section. They can be used to change the screen colour, font size and may have voice controls.

7. Coloured filters overlays – There is some debate about if coloured filers and overlays work. Yet it is common to help dyslexic children by printing writing on coloured paper or using coloured filters to reduce glare from white backgrounds. Learn more “Which coloured overlay is best for dyslexia?”

8. Fun games – Practising simple word games such as “tongue twisters” and memory games can help with reading. It helps the child to think about the sounds in words, which help them read better. Try these 10 min games, “Reading staircase games”.

9. Touch typing – When writing a dyslexic child may struggle to form letters when writing them and know how to spell works. Getting a child to learn to write their work instead, can improve writing speed, memory of spelling and makes it easier for them to read their own work.

10. Post-it notes – Great for planning, answering questions and note taking. Rather than child struggling to write full sentences. Simply write one word on each post-it. The child can then use the post-it notes to talk about, or write more about the subject with adult help.

11. Spell-checker – Most computers when typing have a spell checker. Great on-line checkers are Grammarly and Hemmingway app.

12. Mind-mapping Mind-maps are a great way for a dyslexic child to quickly get their ideas down on paper. For a mind-map that can be used on-line see “Mind-up”.

13. Voice assistant – Found on devices such as Amazon Echo (Alexa) or IPad (Siri). Child can simply ask “Alexa how do you spell Dog?”, then be given the answer.

14. Tablets or phone – Dyslexic children learn best using all their senses. When learning new words, taking in information. Seeing pictures, videos help them remember better. Use the internet on a tablet or phone to show them images and videos.

15. Text to speech – On-line web-sites will read aloud any texted. Great for children that struggle to read large pieces of writing. Use reading aid, “Natural Readers” for free.

16. Speech to text – The opposite can also be done on-line. Where the child can speak their answers and it appears as writing on a computer. Try “Speechtexter” for free.

17. C-Scan pen – Texted already written in books and on worksheets can be scanned by this pen. Then using software it can read aloud the words or put them on the computer screen in a word document.

18. Mooki Cards – Card deck with 56 activities to help dyslexic children. All scientifically proven and easy to carry in your pocket, see more “Mooki cards”!

Top 7 dyslexia reading and writing programmes

Online programs can be used at home or school to help dyslexic children practice reading, writing, and spelling. Below are the top 7 dyslexia reading and writing programs:

1. Phonics Play: Gives a child the building blocks to reading success. This engaging platform uses games, songs, and videos. To make learning reading fun and effective.

2. Reading Eggs: A popular online reading program that uses fun activities to teach kids how to read. Plus, parents can track their child’s progress with a convenient dashboard!

3. Nessy: Online interactive games, videos, and activities. To make learning to read, write, and spell fun. The activities are multi-sensory and personalised to the child level.

4. Oxford Reading Tree:  A series of books for different level readers, to help kids learn to read. Available as online digital books and physical paperbacks.

5. ABCY Reading: ABCY Reading’s multi-sensory online program and app bring reading to life for kids with games, songs, and interactive activities.

6. IXL Learning: Comprehensive online programme and app. To help a child with many school subjects, including learning reading.

7.Read Aloud: An app that allows you to record you or the child reading books, that can be played back.

Where to shop reading aids?

There are many specialist dyslexia shops and online stockists of reading aids. See helpful list below:

Designed to help dyslexic children Mooki Cards. Complete with 56 cards and storage wallet. Perfect for using at home or in the classroom. Order your Mooki Cards here!


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