Resources and Support
Finding the right information and support can make a real difference when your child is experiencing difficulties with learning. The resources below offer guidance on understanding dyslexia, supporting learning at home and working with school.
Useful Websites and Further Information
A selection of trusted organisations offering information, advice and support.
British Dyslexia Association
Information about dyslexia, identifying difficulties and supporting children at home and school.
Made By Dyslexia
Videos and resources exploring dyslexia and dyslexic thinking.
Manx Dyslexia Association
Local information, resources and support in the Isle of Man.
NHS – Dyslexia in children
An accessible introduction to dyslexia, assessment and support.
CALL Scotland
Guidance on assistive technology and digital tools to support learning.
Supporting Your Child at Home
Small changes to everyday routines can help support your child’s learning and confidence.
Make reading enjoyable
Read together, take turns, listen to audio books and let your child choose what they enjoy.
Keep practice manageable
Short, regular activities are often more effective than long practice sessions.
Build confidence
Praise effort and progress, and recognise your child’s strengths and interests.
Make learning practical
Use games, pictures, magnetic letters, movement and hands-on activities.
Support organisation
Try visual reminders, checklists, calendars and simple routines.
Use technology
Audio books, text-to-speech and speech-to-text can make reading and writing more accessible.
The most important thing is to find approaches that work for your child without making learning at home feel like another school day.
Working with School
If you have concerns about your child’s reading, spelling, writing or progress, start by speaking to their class teacher or the school’s Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO).
You can work together to identify what your child finds difficult and what support may help. Strategies in school might include:
Breaking instructions and tasks into smaller steps.
Allowing additional time to process information and respond.
Providing written instructions, visual prompts or lesson notes.
Make Teaching and revisiting key vocabulary.
Reducing unnecessary copying from the board.organisation.
Using assistive technology, such as text-to-speech or speech-to-text.
Keep in touch with school about what is working and any changes you notice at home. A consistent approach between home and school can help your child feel supported.
Useful Learning Resources and Technology
There are many resources and digital tools that can make reading, writing and learning more accessible. The most suitable options will depend on your child’s age, interests and individual needs.
Audio books and accessible reading
Douglas Library
Library members can explore digital books and audio books through apps such as Libby and BorrowBox, subject to availability.
Calibre Audio
Provides audio books for people with print disabilities, including those with dyslexia. A formal diagnosis may not be required; check its membership criteria.
Audible
A subscription service offering a wide range of audiobooks.
Reading and Spelling Apps
Nessy
Literacy programmes and activities supporting reading, spelling and writing. A subscription is required, but check with your child’s school, as many schools on the Isle of Man have Nessy accounts that pupils can access.
Hairy Letters & Hairy Phonics
Playful early-literacy apps designed to support younger learners with letter sounds, phonics and early reading skills.
Touch-type Read and Spell
(TTRS) A structured touch-typing program that also supports reading and spelling. Particularly useful for older learners. A subscription is required.
BBC Dance Mat Typing
A free, interactive touch-typing program to help children develop keyboard skills.
App guides from CALL Scotland
CALL Scotland has produced helpful guides to apps that can support learners with dyslexia:
Android apps
Android apps for learners with dyslexia.
iOS apps
iPad apps for learners with dyslexia.
Final Note
Not every resource will suit every child. It is worth trying different approaches to find what makes learning more accessible, enjoyable and manageable for your child.
Assistive technology
Assistive technology can help children access information and communicate their ideas more independently. Examples include:
Text-to-speech: Reads digital text aloud.
Speech-to-text: Converts spoken words into written text.
Audiobooks: Provides an alternative way to access books and information.
Reading support tools: Reader pens and other tools can help with unfamiliar words and printed text.
Word processing: Allows children to type, edit and organise written work.