Dyslexia – Information and Support for Parents

Dyslexia is a learning difference that can affect the development of reading, spelling, writing and the processing of written information. It can also affect areas such as memory, organisation and the speed at which information is processed.
Every child with dyslexia is different. Some children may find reading, spelling, handwriting or remembering sequences more challenging, while also showing strengths in areas such as creativity, problem-solving, verbal communication, practical learning, imagination and seeing the bigger picture.

At Ysgol y Graig, we focus on understanding each child’s individual strengths and needs and putting the right support in place to help them make progress and develop confidence.

Things you can try at homeSome strategies that may help include:

• Read together regularly and keep reading enjoyable and pressure-free.
• Allow your child to listen to audiobooks alongside printed texts.
• Break longer pieces of work into small, manageable sections.
• Give your child extra time to read, process and respond.
• Use visual prompts, checklists and colour-coding to support organisation.
• Practise spellings in short, frequent sessions rather than long blocks.
• Use practical and multi-sensory approaches, such as saying, hearing, seeing and writing words.
• Encourage your child to talk through ideas before writing them down.
• Focus on the content of their ideas as well as spelling and presentation.
• Praise effort, persistence and progress.
• Avoid comparing reading or spelling ability with other children.
• Make use of technology where helpful, including text-to-speech, speech-to-text and spelling support.

Building confidenceChildren who find literacy difficult can sometimes lose confidence, especially if they feel they are working harder than others.

It is important to help children understand that finding reading or spelling difficult does not mean they are less able. Celebrate their strengths, interests and achievements and remind them that everyone learns in different ways.
Talk to usIf you are concerned about your child’s reading, spelling, writing, memory, organisation or progress in literacy, please speak to their class teacher in the first instance.

We can discuss what you are noticing at home, what we are seeing in school and the support already in place. Where appropriate, the class teacher can work alongside our ALNCo Mrs Pomeroy and wider school team to consider whether further assessment, intervention or support would be helpful.

A child does not need to have a formal diagnosis of dyslexia before appropriate support can be put in place.
Useful support for families​.

British Dyslexia Association
Provides information and practical advice for parents, carers and schools about dyslexia and literacy difficulties.

Dyslexia Wales
Offers information and support for children, families and adults in Wales.

Your child’s school
School staff can work with you to identify strategies, monitor progress and consider whether any additional support is needed.
RememberWith the right support, encouragement and teaching approaches, children with dyslexia can make strong progress and develop the confidence to use their strengths successfully.
​
At Ysgol y Graig, every child belongs, believes and thrives.