When Letters Don’t Stay Still: How to Support Children with Dyslexia

The other day, my son walked up to me, his face alight with curiosity and discovery. “Mom,” he said, pointing to the numbers he had scribbled on a page, “if you combine 1 and 3, it makes a B! And if you draw a line in front of F, it turns into A!” His joy in seeing letters and numbers transform reminded me of how children perceive the world differently—each from their own unique perspective.

But not every child’s experience with letters is so joyful. For many, letters don’t just transform; they tumble, blur, and rearrange themselves, making reading and writing an uphill climb with no clear path. This is the daily reality for children with dyslexia.

Dyslexia Isn’t a Limitation; It’s a Different Way of Learning

Dyslexia doesn’t mean a child isn’t bright or isn’t trying. It means their brain processes language differently. Often, these children are incredibly creative, great at solving puzzles, or brilliant at thinking outside the box. Yet, they struggle to decode the symbols of language in the way schools traditionally expect.

So, how can we support dyslexic children in a way that makes learning a positive experience instead of a frustrating one? It starts with understanding, empathy, and a willingness to adapt.

5 Practical Ways to Support Children with Dyslexia1.    Turn Learning into Play 

Children thrive when learning is engaging and fun. Games like matching letters to sounds, rearranging Scrabble tiles to form words, or hopping on letter mats to spell can help connect symbols to sounds in a stress-free, enjoyable way. The key is to make learning feel like play, not pressure. 

2.    Celebrate Every Small Win 

For a child with dyslexia, reading a single word correctly or writing a sentence without frustration is a significant achievement. Celebrate these moments with enthusiasm. “Wow, you worked so hard on that word!” or “Look at how much you’ve improved!” reinforces their efforts and builds confidence.

3.    Use Multi-Sensory Techniques 

Learning doesn’t have to happen just on paper. Let children trace letters in sand, build them with clay, or use their fingers to draw in the air. These multi-sensory experiences connect what they see, hear, and feel, making it easier to grasp abstract concepts.

4.    Focus on Strengths 

Children with dyslexia often excel in areas like art, music, or problem-solving. Highlight and nurture these strengths. When they see themselves succeeding in other places, they’re more likely to approach challenges in reading with resilience. 

5.    Practice Patience and Compassion 

Progress may sometimes feel slow, but every step forward is worth celebrating. Your patience teaches children that taking their time is okay and that mistakes are part of learning. Remember, how you respond to their struggles shapes their belief in themselves.

The Role of Connection in Learning

One of the most powerful things we can do for children with dyslexia is to create a safe, supportive environment where they feel seen and understood. When children trust their struggles won’t lead to judgment or frustration, they’re more willing to take risks and try again.

My son’s creative observation about letters reminded me of the beauty of seeing the world through a child’s eyes. With imagination, patience, and much love, we can help dyslexic children know they’re not broken—they’re simply learning to read their way.

A Final Thought

Dyslexia doesn’t define a child’s potential. With the right tools and support, these children can achieve incredible things. As parents, teachers, and caregivers, we must meet them where they are and guide them forward, one small step at a time.

Every child deserves to feel successful. Let’s celebrate their strengths and support their struggles. Because when we believe in them, they start to believe in themselves.

Let’s Connect

Have you worked with or supported a child with dyslexia? What strategies have worked for you? I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation going.

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Recommended Products for Supporting Dyslexic Learners: Reading Guides/Overlays :Coloured overlays or reading strips can help reduce visual stress and improve focus on text. Look for multi-colour packs so children can choose their preferred shades. Letter Formation Kits :Magnetic letter kits or sandpaper letter cards allow children to trace, feel, and learn letter shapes in an engaging, sensory-friendly manner. Educational Games :Spelling and phonics games are designed to build decoding skills. These often come as flashcards or board games tailored for young learners. Audiobooks and Interactive eBooks :For reluctant readers, interactive audiobooks or eBooks with text-to-speech features can make stories more accessible. Writing Workbooks for Dyslexic Children :Activity books designed specifically for dyslexia that incorporate visual aids, repetition, and fun challenges to reinforce learning. Assistive Technology Pens :Reading pens with scanning and pronunciation features can assist in independent reading.