Dyslexia awareness week

The Dyslexia Awareness Week theme of 2024 is ‘Breaking Down Barriers’. It allows us time to reflect on the barriers that those living with dyslexia often face, while also focusing on how individuals, organisations and the education system have continued to succeed and break through these obstacles.

We know that dyslexia comes with many challenges, but people in our community can feel like their barriers are stronger than those who do not live with dyslexia or other neurodiversity. We want to celebrate those with dyslexia and ensure they feel seen, heard and accepted for who they are. We believe a society that embraces and promotes neurodiversity is kinder, more creative and empowered.

How you can help your child:

As a parent, you might be unsure about the best way to help your child.

Read to your child

This will improve their vocabulary and listening skills, and will also encourage their interest in books.

Share reading

Both read some of the book and then discuss what's happening, or what might happen.

Overlearning

You may get bored of reading your child's favourite book over and over, but repetition will reinforce their understanding and means they'll become familiar with the text.

Silent reading

Children also need the chance to read alone to encourage their independence and fluency.

Make reading fun

Reading should be a pleasure, not a chore. Use books about subjects your child is interested in, and make sure that reading takes place in a relaxed and comfortable environment.Parents also play a significant role in improving their child's confidence, so it's important to encourage and support your child as they learn.

Technology for children

Many children with dyslexia feel more comfortable working with a computer than an exercise book.

This may be because a computer uses a visual environment that better suits their method of learning and working.Word processing programmes can also be useful because they have a spellchecker and an autocorrect facility that can highlight mistakes in your child's writing.