Dyslexia Support Resources

Practical Steps for Families Navigating Dyslexia

Many families first notice signs of dyslexia when a child struggles to connect letters with sounds, guesses at words based on the first letter, or reads slowly and with great effort even after plenty of practice. Other common signs include difficulty rhyming, trouble remembering sight words from one day to the next, and spelling that seems inconsistent. Dyslexia has nothing to do with intelligence or effort. It is a difference in how the brain processes written language, and it often runs in families.

Asking the school for help

Under federal law, parents can request an evaluation from their child's public school if they suspect a learning disability. Tennessee also requires schools to screen students for characteristics of dyslexia and to provide appropriate intervention. Put your request in writing, keep copies of any work samples or notes from teachers, and ask what happens next and when. If your child qualifies for support, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan can set out specific instruction and accommodations. A licensed educational psychologist or your child's doctor can answer questions about formal diagnosis.

What effective instruction looks like

Research consistently supports structured literacy for readers with dyslexia. This approach teaches the sounds of language and how they map to letters in a clear, step-by-step order. It is often multisensory, so children see, say, hear and write sounds together. Lessons build steadily, review often, and move on only when a skill is secure. When you look at any tutoring option, it is fair to ask how the instruction is sequenced and how progress is measured.

Support at home

• Read aloud together every day, choosing books above your child's reading level so their vocabulary and love of stories keep growing.
• Use audiobooks alongside print. Listening is real reading for comprehension and enjoyment.
• Keep practice short and positive. Ten focused minutes usually work better than a long, frustrating session.
• Celebrate strengths outside reading, such as building, art, sport or problem-solving, to protect confidence.

Our programs page describes the tutoring and family reading nights we offer. For more reading lists and tips, visit our resources section. If you would like to help children who learn differently, our volunteer training is a good place to start.