Help dyslexic child aged 8+ to write essays and stories

Help a dyslexic child write essays and stories by using a Thought Tree to organise their ideas.

A Thought Tree is a type of mind map. It helps dyslexic children to get their thoughts down on paper quickly, by using:

• Keywords.
• Pictures.

It is perfect for planning larger pieces of work, such as:

• Projects.
• Presentations.
• Essays.
• Stories.

Why do dyslexic kids struggle to write ideas?

Dyslexic children often have many ideas but struggle to express them.

They tend to think in pictures and often have difficulty with spelling. This can make it harder for them to start writing and to put their ideas into words.

Mind-mapping helps dyslexic children take notes and organise their ideas by:

• Writing down ideas in any order.
• Adding basic keywords.
• Using colours and patterns.
• Drawing pictures.

Thought Tree Card

To assist a dyslexic child in making a mind map, use the Thought Tree card below from Mooki Cards.

This card is based on scientific research. To learn more, visit: Inventor of mind maps, Tony Buzan.

How to make a Thought Tree mind-map

Check out advice from the Dyslexic Mum. She shares top tips for using the Thought Tree card above.

“When I went to school in the 1980s, they still had blackboards. In lessons, we copied information from the board. No talking was allowed.

After that, we got a list of questions or were told to write an essay. I remember staring at the blank white paper, my head spinning. I had so many ideas, but I couldn’t write them down. It was tough. What I needed was a way to get my ideas on paper quickly before writing a longer piece. Mind maps are great for this.

The clickable video below, Thought Tree, features the Dyslexic Mum demonstrating how to create a mind map.

Follow the top tips below when using the Though Tree card above:

• If a dyslexic child finds it hard to write a lot, suggest the Thought Tree.
• They can draw a tree and add ideas to the branches. Use words, drawings, or stickers.
• The child can hold it up and discuss their ideas. You can help by writing down what they say.
• The Thought Tree can also be used in class. It helps a dyslexic child take notes quickly.

Everything you need to help a dyslexic child. 56 cards with 10 minute activities. Perfect for using at home or in the classroom. Order your “Mooki Cards” here!