Help a dyslexic child think positively and boost their mental health.
Dyslexic children often find learning hard and may fall behind in class. They may face bullying, which can leave a child feeling misunderstood.
This can lead to:
- low self-esteem
- negative self-beliefs
- anxiety
- depression
Talking can help mental health. It can also boost a child’s confidence and self-esteem.
When children share their feelings in a supportive space, it helps them challenge negative thoughts. This is sometimes called “stinking thinking”. Talking helps them think more positively.
This activity is based on cognitive behavioural therapy (NHS).
Try it today: challenge one negative thought
- Notice it – when your child says something unkind about themselves, like “I’m stupid”, gently point it out.
- Question it – ask: “Is that really true? What would you say to a friend who thought that?”
- Swap it – help them find a kinder thought, like “Reading is hard for me, but I’m getting better.”
Want a ready-made way to start talking about feelings?
The Stinking Thinking card has everything in one place: ready-made steps for you on the front and a picture activity for your child on the back. 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 to improve mental health
Get help and advice from the Dyslexic Mum. She shares how dyslexia affects mental health.
“Growing up with dyslexia, I always felt different. I faced bullying from classmates and often got into trouble with teachers. This made me believe I was the problem. I kept my feelings hidden and did not like talking about how I felt.
Now, I understand that sharing my feelings would have helped. If I had someone to challenge my negative thoughts, I could have seen that my dyslexia was not the problem, and that I could still succeed.”
Watch the video below to learn how to help dyslexic kids talk about their emotions.
Follow these top tips to help a dyslexic child share their feelings:
Know the signs – look out for changes in behaviour. These can be signs of anxiety and depression. The child may:
- become very hyper
- lose focus
- misbehave
- become withdrawn
- be tearful
- speak negatively about themselves
- have changes in sleep
- have changes in eating
Be patient – the child may not want to talk about their feelings. They might feel ashamed about their struggles. Be patient and let them know you support them. Simple gestures can help, such as:
- smiles
- cuddles
- spending extra time together
Start talking – open up conversations to encourage the child to share their feelings. You can:
- share your own stories from childhood
- listen carefully and show that you care and want to help
- try texting them, if the child finds it hard to speak
Learn more about helping children with their mental health: NSPCC children’s mental health.