Strategies for Supporting Students with Dyslexia in the Classroom

22 February 2026

Let’s face it — teaching is tough. And when you’ve got a classroom full of diverse learners, it gets even more challenging. Now throw dyslexia into the mix, and you've got a whole new level of complexity. But here’s the good news: supporting students with dyslexia doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right strategies, you can create a learning environment where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered.

If you’ve ever looked into the eyes of a student who's trying their hardest but still struggling to read, you know how heartbreaking (and frustrating!) it can be. But don’t worry — you’re not alone, and you don't have to be a specialist to make a big difference. In this guide, we’re going to break down practical, human-centered strategies that work — straight-up, no fluff.

What Is Dyslexia and Why Should You Care?

Before we dive into the how, let’s talk about the what. Dyslexia isn’t laziness or a lack of intelligence — it’s a language-based learning difference. Students with dyslexia often have trouble with reading, writing, spelling, and sometimes even speaking. It’s not something they grow out of, but with the right support? They can totally thrive.

You might be thinking, "Okay, but how common is it really?" Actually, it's more common than you think — about 1 in 5 students has some form of dyslexia. So odds are, you’ve already got at least one student in your class who’s dealing with it.

Recognizing the Signs Early

The earlier you spot dyslexia, the sooner you can step in with support. So what should you be looking for?

- Trouble learning letters and their sounds
- Difficulty spelling basic words
- Guessing words instead of sounding them out
- Reading slowly or avoiding reading altogether
- Reversing letters or numbers
- Poor memory for sequences (like days of the week or steps in a task)

If you notice any of these consistently, it's time to dig deeper. Trust your instincts — teachers often notice red flags before anyone else does.

Create a Dyslexia-Friendly Classroom Environment

Let’s start with the vibe of your classroom. Is it a space that welcomes all kinds of learners? Or does it rely heavily on fast reading and timed tests? Here’s how to make your classroom a place where students with dyslexia can breathe easier:

1. Normalize Differences

Start with mindset. Talk openly about how people learn differently — not better, not worse, just different. Share stories of successful people with dyslexia (think Steve Jobs, Whoopi Goldberg, Richard Branson) to show that challenges don’t define futures.

2. Use Multi-Sensory Learning

Students with dyslexia learn best when more than one sense is engaged. Think of it like this: if reading is a locked door, multi-sensory tools are the keys.

- Visual: Charts, color-coded notes, images, videos
- Auditory: Read alouds, songs, verbal instructions
- Kinesthetic: Tracing letters in sand, using hand motions, tapping out syllables
- Tactile: Textured letters, building words with letter tiles

The more senses you loop in, the more likely students are to retain information and stay engaged.

Practical Teaching Strategies That Make a Real Difference

Ready for the nitty-gritty? These strategies don’t just sound good — they actually work. And the best part? They benefit all your students, not just the ones with dyslexia.

1. Break It Down

Instead of bombarding students with tons of text or big assignments, break tasks into bite-sized chunks. Think of it like giving directions one step at a time instead of handing over a map and saying, “Good luck!”

- Give one instruction at a time
- Use bullet points or numbered steps
- Provide checklists so students can track progress

2. Use Technology as a Support, Not a Crutch

Tech can be a total game-changer when used right. Some of our favorite tools for supporting dyslexic learners include:

- Text-to-speech (like Natural Reader or built-in accessibility features)
- Speech-to-text (Google Docs has this — it’s a lifesaver!)
- Audiobooks and podcasts (Learning doesn’t have to be print-based!)
- Dyslexia-friendly fonts like OpenDyslexic

Think of tech as a bridge, not a shortcut — it helps students access content while still building skills.

3. Allow Alternative Ways to Show Understanding

Not every student needs to write an essay to prove they’ve learned something. Try giving options like:

- Oral presentations
- Visual projects (collages, posters)
- Video recordings
- One-on-one discussions

When students feel supported in how they express their knowledge, confidence skyrockets.

4. Provide Extra Time and Reduce Pressure

Timed tests and fast-paced reading activities can trigger anxiety and shut down learning. Instead:

- Offer extra time on assignments and tests
- Allow breaks as needed
- Avoid reading aloud without warning — offer choice instead

Let’s be real — reading aloud in front of peers can feel like public speaking at the Oscars… without a script. Give them a heads-up or skip it altogether.

5. Pre-Teach Vocabulary and Concepts

Students with dyslexia often struggle with new vocabulary. Give them a head start:

- Introduce key terms before reading
- Use visuals and real-life examples
- Create word walls or personal dictionaries

It’s like giving someone the trailer before they dive into the movie — context makes everything easier to follow.

6. Model, Model, Model

Show, then let them try. When you model what you expect, you build clarity and confidence. Read a paragraph aloud, break it down together, highlight important ideas. Think of yourself as a tour guide walking students through unfamiliar terrain — pointing out landmarks and making sure no one gets left behind.

Build Strong Relationships and Open Communication

This might be the most important strategy of all. Students with dyslexia often face years of feeling like they’re “not good enough.” That takes a toll.

1. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results

Praise the process. Say things like:

- “I saw how hard you worked on that.”
- “It’s awesome how you kept trying even when it got tough.”
- “You found your own way to solve that problem — that’s brilliant.”

Recognition goes a long way. You're building resilience, not just reading skills.

2. Partner With Parents

You and the parents are a team. Keep communication open — share progress, struggles, and wins. Ask them what’s working at home and let them know what you’re trying in school. Collaboration creates consistency, which builds confidence.

3. Advocate and Educate

Be your students’ biggest cheerleader. Push for assessments if needed, suggest accommodations, and educate your colleagues. The more people understand dyslexia, the less stigma and more support there will be.

Accommodations vs. Modifications: Know the Difference

Quick refresher:

- Accommodations = Same content, different access (e.g., audiobooks, extra time)
- Modifications = Changes to the content or expectations (e.g., shorter assignments)

Accommodations level the playing field; modifications adjust the game. Know which your student needs — and remember, accommodations don’t give unfair advantages. They provide equal opportunity.

Stay Patient, Stay Positive

Supporting a student with dyslexia isn’t about fixing them — it's about helping them shine in their own unique way. Some days will be tough. You’ll try things that don’t work. But remember: progress, not perfection.

This is a journey — one where you're not just shaping academic success, but also emotional resilience and confidence. That’s powerful stuff.

Final Thoughts

Every student with dyslexia has a story. You get to be a part of that — the person who saw their potential, fought for their voice, and helped them turn the page to a new chapter. No cape required. Just awareness, empathy, and a solid toolkit of strategies.

Teaching students with dyslexia isn’t just about helping them read better — it’s about helping them feel like they belong. And that kind of impact? That’s the kind that sticks.