Learn how to explain dyslexia to a child in a simple way they can understand.
Children with dyslexia often have big questions. Clear, trusted answers can help them feel less confused and more confident.
Your child may ask questions such as:
- Why do people have dyslexia?
- What makes a dyslexic brain different?
- Who can help with dyslexia?
- When will dyslexia go away?
This approach is based on scientific research. Learn more in ‘Dyslexia in the classroom’.
Free 10-minute course
Help a child understand their dyslexia
Explain dyslexia simply and positively, in 3 short activities. 10 minutes a day, with free printable worksheets.
Try it today: start the conversation
- Pick a calm moment – a walk, a car ride or bedtime works well.
- Ask one question – “What would you like to know about dyslexia?” Let your child lead.
- Find the answer together – if you are not sure, look it up together on a trusted website, like the NHS.
Want simple, trusted answers to share with your child?
The Common Questions card turns the big questions into a fun game. It has ready-made steps for you on the front and a picture activity for your child on the back, with everything in one place. All the Mooki Cards are carefully researched. It’s one of 56 ten-minute activities in the Mooki Cards deck.
Instant download · use on a phone or tablet, or print and fill in
Start talking about dyslexia
Learn what inspired the Dyslexic Mum to start talking to her child about dyslexia:
“Parents’ evening on a wintry mid-term night. The teacher started by telling me how hard my child was trying, yet she was still below average in reading.
My little girl was confused. Why did she find writing so hard when others did not? I knew it was time to start talking to her about dyslexia. So I made it as simple as possible and designed a card to clearly explain the ‘why, who and what’ of dyslexia.”
Watch the clickable video, ‘What causes dyslexia?’.
When explaining dyslexia to a child, use the top tips below:
- Be Honest – Be open and honest about dyslexia with the child. It can be confusing and scary for a child to realise they are different. They may start to believe negative things about themselves, such as thinking they are stupid or will not do well in life.
- Keep Talking – Your first chat is just the start. The child will have many more questions about dyslexia. Keep talking, and help build their confidence, get them organised and practise writing. Show them that dyslexia is not something that has to hold them back in life.
- Beware, Internet – The internet contains so much untrue information about dyslexia. These incorrect facts can cause unnecessary confusion and stress. Stick to trusted websites, such as ‘NHS Dyslexia’ and the ‘British Dyslexia Association’.
