Raising the Volume
6th–12th October 2025 marks Dyslexia Awareness Week, and this year’s theme is “Dyslexia: Raising the Volume”. The campaign, led by the British Dyslexia Association, aims to amplify the voices of people with dyslexia, highlighting their experiences, strengths, and the barriers they face in education, work, and everyday life.
Dyslexia affects around 10–20% of the population, yet it is often misunderstood. It’s not a reflection of intelligence or capability, but rather a different way of processing information. People with dyslexia may struggle with reading, spelling, and memory but they often excel in creativity, problem-solving, and lateral thinking.
Experience the difficulty that those with dyslexia may face everyday
To help build empathy and understanding, we invite you to try this interactive simulation that mimics the reading experience of someone with dyslexia. This activity uses visual and phonological challenges to demonstrate how dyslexia can affect reading fluency and comprehension. It’s a powerful way to step into someone else’s shoes and reflect on how small adjustments can make a big difference.
Adjustments in Educational Settings
While dyslexia is in no way a condition that only effects children, schools have introduced a range of innovative strategies and tools to support children with dyslexia, aiming to create more inclusive and effective learning environments. It could be that some of these suggestions could make life easier for adults in the workplace Here are some of the most impactful adjustments:
Visual & Reading Aids
- Coloured paper and overlays: Light yellow, blue, or green paper can reduce visual stress and glare, making text easier to read. Overlays (transparent coloured sheets) are also used to help children track lines of text and reduce distortions like blurring or movement. These are especially helpful for children with Irlen Syndrome, which often co-occurs with dyslexia. dyslexichelp.org
- Reading rulers: Tinted rulers help children focus on one line at a time, improving reading fluency and reducing overwhelm. www.crossboweducation.com
- Avoid italics and underlining; use bold for emphasis
- Use bullet points and clear headings to break up text
- Provide information in multiple formats (written, verbal, visual)
Assistive Technology
- Text-to-speech software: Tools like NaturalReader or built-in device features read text aloud, helping children access content without decoding difficulties.
- Speech-to-text tools: Allow children to express ideas verbally, which are then transcribed into written form.
- Audiobooks and e-readers: Provide access to literature without the barrier of decoding print.
Multisensory Learning
- Hands-on activities: Using sand trays, finger paints, or textured materials to reinforce spelling and phonics.
- Auditory reinforcement: Singing spelling rules or clapping syllables to support phonological awareness.
- Kinesthetic methods: Tracing letters in the air or using movement to reinforce learning. homeschoolingwithdyslexia.com
Structured Literacy Approaches
- Explicit phonics instruction: Systematic teaching of letter-sound relationships helps build decoding skills.
- Small group or one-on-one support: Tailored interventions to meet individual needs.
Environmental Adjustments
- Quiet zones or sensory-friendly spaces: Reduce distractions and anxiety.
- Flexible seating and lighting: Helps children with sensory sensitivities focus better.
- Allow extra time for reading or written tasks
- Offer verbal instructions alongside written ones
- Encourage use of mind maps or diagrams for planning and note-taking
Organisational Tools
- Colour-coded folders and timetables: Aid memory and organisation.
- Visual schedules and checklists: Help children follow routines and manage tasks.
Let’s raise the volume together—by listening, learning, and leading with empathy.
https://www.dyslexiahelpuk.co.uk/dyslexia-diagnostic-assessments
https://aimforward.co.uk/dyslexia-assessments/
https://www.dyslexia.uk.net/service/child-assessments/
https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/services/assessments/diagnostic-assessments/application-information
By Gill Edwards
Gill Edwards is Senior Project Manager at Skewb. To speak with her about this topic in more detail, you can connect with her on LinkedIn.
