5 Things Every Child with Dyslexia Needs in the Classroom
Students with dyslexia are bright, capable learners. In fact, many have average to above-average intelligence. Their challenges in school aren’t due to a lack of ability, but rather to the fact that their brains process language differently.
When teachers understand these differences and provide instruction that aligns with how dyslexic students learn best, the results can be transformative. Here are five key things every child with dyslexia needs in the classroom.
5 Things Every Child with Dyslexia Needs in the Classroom
1. Explicit and systematic phonics instruction.
Dyslexic students need reading instruction that is both explicit (concepts are directly taught, not left to inference) and systematic (skills are introduced in a logical sequence, with constant review and reinforcement).
This type of instruction teaches the building blocks of language (letter-sound relationships, syllable types, and spelling rules) in a way that sticks. Instead of guessing at words, students gain the strategies to decode them with confidence.
2. Access to the Big Picture
Dyslexic students are often global thinkers who excel when they understand how details fit into a larger framework.
Whether it’s previewing the chapter before diving into the details or showing how today’s math lesson connects to real-world problem-solving, giving students the “big picture” first provides them with a structure to organize and retain information.
3. Time to Process and Collaborate
Students with dyslexia benefit from opportunities to think, discuss, and process aloud.
Building in time for small-group discussions, peer collaboration, or reflective conversations before a test or writing assignment can help them clarify their thoughts and organize information more effectively.
4. Meaningful Accommodations
Accommodations don’t change what a student learns. They level the playing field so the student can demonstrate what they know.
Helpful accommodations may include:
Visual supports (anchor charts, graphic organizers, word banks)
Access to audiobooks or text-to-speech tools
Alternatives to written tests (oral presentations, projects)
Extra time on reading- and writing-heavy assignments
These supports not only reduce frustration but also allow students with dyslexia to fully engage with grade-level content and show their true capabilities.
5. Encouragement and Acceptance
Beyond structured teaching strategies, students with dyslexia need to know that they are capable, intelligent, and valued.
Too often, dyslexic students internalize the message that struggling with reading means they aren’t smart. In reality, dyslexia has nothing to do with intelligence, and many dyslexic learners excel in creativity, problem-solving, and big-picture thinking.
Teachers play a powerful role in shifting this mindset. By celebrating strengths, offering encouragement, and creating a classroom environment where mistakes are treated as part of learning, educators help students build confidence.
When students feel accepted and supported, they are more willing to take risks, persevere through challenges, and believe in their ability to succeed.
The Bottom Line
By combining evidence-based instruction, meaningful accommodations, and a culture of acceptance, educators can empower students with dyslexia to thrive both academically and personally.
Want to Learn More?
If you’d like to deepen your understanding of what dyslexia really looks like across ages and stages (and how to provide the right support ) check out our on-demand training:
👉 What Dyslexia Really Looks Like: From Identification to Intervention
This training will help you see the signs of dyslexia more clearly, understand the unique needs of dyslexic learners, and walk away with tools to your dyslexic students.