Dyslexia Talk

Dyslexia Talk Helping parents, teachers & students understand & support dyslexia with expert strategies & resources

Knowing these signs early can save a child from years of thinking, “I’m just not good enough.”If I could sit with every ...
29/07/2025

Knowing these signs early can save a child from years of thinking, “I’m just not good enough.”

If I could sit with every parent and teacher for just five minutes, these are the signs I’d want you to remember:

Mixing up similar letters – like b and d, p and q.

Difficulty rhyming words – for example, not catching that cat, bat, and hat sound alike.

Struggling to remember letter sounds, even after lots of practice.

Confusing words with similar letters – reading ‘saw’ as ‘was’, or ‘who’ as ‘how’.

Trouble with sequencing – telling a story in order, remembering days of the week, or following steps in instructions.

Seeing just one of these doesn’t mean a child has dyslexia. But when you notice a pattern of several signs that persist over time, it’s worth looking deeper.

👉🏽 Save this post as a quick reminder. Early help changes everything.

This Is the Sign Most Parents Miss About Dyslexia.Is Dyslexia just a reading delay, or something more?I’ve seen so many ...
28/07/2025

This Is the Sign Most Parents Miss About Dyslexia.

Is Dyslexia just a reading delay, or something more?

I’ve seen so many children bloom once we understand why they struggle and teach them differently. one thing I’ve learned is this struggling to read is never because a child isn’t smart or isn’t trying hard enough.

Every child learns at their own pace. But if reading feels like a daily battle despite consistent teaching and support, it could be dyslexia.

Ask yourself:

💕 Does your child avoid reading altogether?

💕 Do they get upset during reading time?

💕 Are they struggling to remember simple words or letter sounds they’ve practiced many times?

These are signs that need attention, and not punishment. Early recognition opens the door to real help.

💬 Comment “I want to learn” if you’re following this week’s posts to understand dyslexia better.

Assistive technology can make learning easier and more enjoyable for children with dyslexia. From reading support to mem...
18/07/2025

Assistive technology can make learning easier and more enjoyable for children with dyslexia. From reading support to memory aids, these tools help them learn with confidence.

👉🏾 Save this for later and share with another parent or teacher who supports dyslexic learners.

💬 Which of these tools have you used? Tell us in the comments below.

💻 Tech That Helps Kids Focus and Stay Organised. Many children struggle with focus and organisation. For kids with ADHD,...
17/07/2025

💻 Tech That Helps Kids Focus and Stay Organised.

Many children struggle with focus and organisation. For kids with ADHD, dyslexia, or learning difficulties, this struggle can feel even heavier.

But here’s the truth:

Technology doesn’t have to be expensive to work.

Here are practical tech tools and simple ways to use them in our homes and schools.

✅ 1. Visual Timers

⏳ Why it helps: Kids often lose track of time. Visual timers make time visible so they can see it running out.

🕒 Examples:
– Visual Timer – Countdown (Android app)
– Kitchen timers or sand timers are affordable offline options

✅ How to use it well:
– Use during reading, chores, or homework.
– Let your child set the timer so they feel in control.
– Start with small times (5-15 minutes) to build focus.

✅ 2. Simple To-Do Lists

📝 Why it helps: Children feel overwhelmed by big tasks. Lists break things down clearly.

📲 Examples:
– Phone Notes app for daily checklists
– Small whiteboards or laminated charts for offline lists

✅ How to use it well:
– Write morning tasks together.
– Break schoolwork into small parts.
– Let them tick off tasks themselves to build confidence.

✅ 3. Focus Apps

🌳 Why it helps: Phones and tablets are full of distractions. Focus apps help kids stay on task.

📵 Examples:
– Forest (grow a tree by focusing)
– Stay Focused (blocks other apps during study time)

✅ How to use it well:
– Set focus times of 20-30 minutes, then give short breaks.
– Talk about which apps distract them and why.

✅ 4. Phone Calendars and Alarms

📅 Why it helps: Builds routine and reminds children what comes next in their day.

🔔 Examples:
– Google Calendar (if internet is available)
– Built-in phone calendar alarms

✅ How to use it well:
– Schedule reading, chores, homework, prayers, and fun time.
– Set alarms 10 minutes before each task to prepare for switching activities.

✅ 5. Voice Recorders and Audio Notes

🎤 Why it helps: Writing notes can be hard. Recording helps kids remember instructions and practise language skills.

📲 Examples:
– Phone voice recorder app
– WhatsApp voice notes for reminders or learning new words

✅ How to use it well:
– Record homework instructions before leaving school.
– Use to practise spelling words or read passages aloud at home.

👉🏽 Technology is only helpful when used with a purpose.
It’s not about fancy devices, it’s about giving children simple tools that build focus, responsibility, and confidence.

💬 Which of these tools will you try this week? Share in the comments or message me if you want help choosing the right one for your child or student.

✍🏽 Writing Tools That Actually Make A Difference Writing is one of the biggest struggles for many children with learning...
16/07/2025

✍🏽 Writing Tools That Actually Make A Difference

Writing is one of the biggest struggles for many children with learning disabilities. ✏️

It’s not just about “bad handwriting” or “not trying hard enough.” It can be due to:

– Dysgraphia (difficulty with handwriting and fine motor control)
– Dyslexia (spelling and written expression challenges)
– ADHD (organisation and working memory difficulties)

These are some writing tools that truly help, and how to use them well.

✅ 1. Pencil Grips

🔹 What it is: Rubber or foam grips slipped onto pencils to support finger placement.
🔹 Why they help: Support correct finger placement and reduce hand fatigue.
🔹 Who needs it: Kids with awkward grips, finger pain, or messy writing.
🔹 How to use well:
– Let your child choose a grip style they find comfortable.
– Show them where each finger goes don’t assume they know.
– Check regularly to see if the grip is working or needs adjusting.

✅ 2. Slant Boards

🔹 What it is: An angled writing surface that brings paper closer to eye level.
🔹 Why they help: Improve posture, wrist angle, and visual tracking.
🔹 Who needs it: Kids who hunch over or complain of neck/shoulder pain while writing.
🔹 How to use well:
– Combine with a stable chair and feet flat on the floor for proper alignment.
– Use during handwriting or drawing tasks to build good habits.

✅ 3. Speech-to-Text Apps

🔹 What it is: Software that types what the child says (e.g. Google Docs Voice Typing, Dragon NaturallySpeaking, Whatsapp Voice Note,etc).
🔹 Why they help: Allow children to express ideas without being blocked by spelling or handwriting difficulties.
🔹 Who needs it: Kids who can speak fluently but struggle to get words onto paper.
🔹 How to use well:
– Teach them to plan their sentences before speaking.
– Always review and edit together to check for mistakes or awkward phrasing.

✅ 4. Graphic Organisers

🔹 What it is: Visual frameworks for planning writing (e.g. story maps, sequencing charts, mind maps).
🔹 Why they help: Break down writing into clear, manageable parts.
🔹 Who needs it: Kids who stare at a blank page, feeling overwhelmed.
🔹 How to use well:
– Model using them before expecting independent use.
– Start with simple organisers (beginning-middle-end) before moving to complex ones like essay planners.

✅ 5. Keyboarding and Typing Tools

🔹 What it is: Touch typing programs (e.g. BBC Dance Mat, TypingClub).
🔹 Why they help: Reduce the strain of handwriting and increase writing speed.
🔹 Who needs it: Kids with dysgraphia, poor handwriting, or fine motor difficulties.
🔹 How to use well:
– Practise daily in short sessions (10-15 mins).
– Emphasise accuracy first; speed will come naturally with confidence.

Writing tools are not shortcuts.
They’re bridges connecting your child’s thoughts to paper in a way that builds confidence, independence, and success.

💬 Which of these writing tools does your child or student need right now? Comment below or message me if you want help choosing the right one this week.

🔖 Reading Support Tools…and how to actually use them well.💬 Which tool have you tried with your child or students?Commen...
15/07/2025

🔖 Reading Support Tools
…and how to actually use them well.

💬 Which tool have you tried with your child or students?

Comment below or save this post to help a child read with confidence. ❤️

✅ What Assistive Technology (AT) Is🛠️ Any tool or device that helps a child overcome learning barriers.AT includes “any ...
14/07/2025

✅ What Assistive Technology (AT) Is

🛠️ Any tool or device that helps a child overcome learning barriers.

AT includes “any item, equipment, or product system used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional abilities of a child with a disability.”

🔹 It can be low-tech or high-tech:

✔️ Low-tech: pencil grips ✏️, graphic organizers 🗂️, colored overlays 🟨, reading rulers 📏
✔️ Mid-tech: portable word processors 💻, talking dictionaries 📚
✔️ High-tech: text-to-speech software 🗣️, speech-to-text tools 🎤, audiobooks 🎧, specialised reading and writing apps 📲

🔑 A bridge to independence.

AT isn’t about “making it easier.” It’s about giving students access to learning in a way that works with their brains.

For example, a dyslexic student using text-to-speech for their science textbook isn’t “cheating”, they’re accessing content at their cognitive level. 🧠✨

👤 Individualised.

What works for one child may not work for another. AT decisions should come after assessing each child’s needs, learning goals, and environment.

❌ What Assistive Technology Is Not

🚫 It is not only computers and apps.

Many assume AT is just about tablets and software. But a visual timetable 🗓️ for executive function difficulties, or a slant board for writing posture, is also AT.

🚫 It is not a replacement for teaching.

AT supports instruction; it doesn’t replace direct teaching of skills.

For example, speech-to-text tools don’t stop us from teaching spelling, they reduce cognitive load during writing tasks.

🚫 It is not a “crutch.”

Research shows that when used well, AT increases independence. Students gain confidence when they can complete tasks they once avoided. 💪🏽

🚫 It is not one-size-fits-all.

An audiobook subscription may help many dyslexic learners, but others need structured literacy intervention alongside it. AT must be matched to each learner’s unique needs.

Assistive technology is any tool, simple or advanced, that helps a child learn and function more effectively.

It’s not a shortcut or a replacement for skill-building. It’s an essential support giving students with learning disabilities equal access to education, and a chance to show what they truly know.

Have you tried assistive technology with your child or student?

💬 Share your experience below or tag a teacher or parent who needs to understand this today.

Teacher Training Gaps, Why Educators Need More Dyslexia-Specific PrepMost teachers are never taught how to teach dyslexi...
12/07/2025

Teacher Training Gaps, Why Educators Need More Dyslexia-Specific Prep

Most teachers are never taught how to teach dyslexic students. Surprised?

In many education systems, Nigeria inclusive, teacher training on dyslexia is limited to a few slides in a special education lecture. Yet in every class, at least 1 in 10 students is dyslexic.

Teachers want to help but feel lost. They don’t know about structured literacy, multisensory methods, or assistive tech options. Many end up feeling guilty or blaming themselves when students don’t progress.

It’s not the teachers’ fault, rather, It’s a training gap that needs to be filled.

If you’re a teacher, seek out short courses on dyslexia intervention. If you’re a parent, advocate for teacher training at your child’s school.

“Better teacher training means better futures for dyslexic children. Let’s push for it together.”

Teachers, did your college prepare you to teach dyslexic students? Share your experience below.

The Steps I Wish I Knew for Teaching Reading Effectively?Reading is a process with connected steps, miss one, and the wh...
11/07/2025

The Steps I Wish I Knew for Teaching Reading Effectively?

Reading is a process with connected steps, miss one, and the whole thing wobbles.

Here’s a simple way to see critical reading instruction:

🔤 Step 1: Decoding the Text
Children need to crack the code of letters and sounds (identify letter names and their sounds).
✅ This comes from teaching phonemic awareness (playing with sounds in words) and phonics (matching sounds to letters).

💕 Step 2: Comprehending the Language
Decoding isn’t enough if they don’t understand what the words mean.
✅ This is built through vocabulary instruction (word meanings, not word recognition) and reading comprehension strategies.

🗣️ Step 3: Achieving Fluency
When decoding and comprehension come together smoothly, fluency develops. Fluent readers read accurately, quickly, and with expression, making reading enjoyable and meaningful.

Putting it together,

Decoding (phonemic awareness + phonics) + Language comprehension (vocabulary + understanding) =
Fluent (confident readers).

Teaching reading is not the same as guessing words or memorising sight words alone. It’s about building each of these steps with care and intention.

Which of these steps do you think your child or students need the most support right now? Let me know below so I can share specific tips this week.

What Really Makes a Good Reader?Have you wondered why some kids pick up reading easily while others struggle for years? ...
09/07/2025

What Really Makes a Good Reader?
Have you wondered why some kids pick up reading easily while others struggle for years?

It’s a combination of critical factors working together.

Here are some of the factors that help strong, confident readers:

Oral Language: Children need a strong spoken vocabulary and the ability to express themselves. Reading builds on listening and speaking first.

Phonemic Awareness: This is the skill of hearing and playing with individual sounds in words, like knowing ‘bat’ has /b/ /a/ /t/. It’s essential for reading success.

Alphabet Knowledge: Kids must recognise and name letters quickly. Without this, kids can’t connect sounds to symbols smoothly.

Phonics: Learning how letters and groups of letters represent sounds. It’s the bridge between spoken and written language.

Practice with Decodable Texts: Reading books that match what they’ve been taught helps kids build confidence and fluency step by step.

Exposure to Sight Words and Irregular Words
Words like “said” or "was" don’t follow phonics rules. Kids learn these through repeated exposure and structured teaching.

Accurate and Automatic:Word Recognition
Seeing a word and reading it instantly, without sounding it out every time. This frees brainpower for understanding meaning.

Spelling:Spelling instruction helps reading and writing flow together. Kids learn patterns and rules, making decoding smoother.

Comprehension
The end goal of reading is making sense of words, sentences, and entire texts. It builds on vocabulary, world knowledge, and fluency.

Systematic, Explicit Instruction
Step-by-step teaching in a logical order. No guessing games. Just clear, direct teaching tailored to how kids learn best.

Well-Trained Teachers
This is the linchpin. Teachers who understand reading science, spot challenges early, and adjust teaching effectively change a child’s life forever.

“Reading success is not about luck. It’s about giving every child these pillars in a way their brain understands.”

Which of these factors surprised you today? Or which one do you want to learn how to strengthen for your child or students? Let me know below.

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