22/08/2025
Book week festivities can be difficult for children who are struggling readers.
Thanks to technology and so much more research in this area, our children who are dyslexic or who have reading difficulties can still access books and learn!
1. Audiobooks
Audiobooks are a fantastic way for children to access information. If your child struggles to read, please seriously consider this as a way to help your child to access books. They do *not* have to read books; the goal of books is to learn new information, build more vocabulary, narrative skills, and enjoy a good story! And if they can do that by listening to a book, why not?
2. Graphic Novels
They are fun, imaginative, and have reduced text, which is often palatable for dyslexic children. Some classics also have graphic novel adaptations - so look out for them!
3. E-Books have text-to-speech function
Did you know that the Kindle or iPad can read your child books? Do consider this to help your child foster a love for literature or learning through books.
4. Decodable books
We are lucky to have more and more engaging decodable books. There are now chapter books that are decodable. Look out for them! There's a whole list of decodable books that you can purchase in Australia: https://www.phonicsaustralia.com.au/assets/files/Product%20Order%20Forms/Decodable%20Readers%20Australia%20Price%20List_January%202025(1).pdf
Finally, as we mentioned in our post/caption yesterday, reading to your child when they are young does not promise that your child will be a good reader. Parents, do not blame yourself for your child's reading difficulties. This is why children attend school - to learn how to read and write.
We hope these strategies and supports can continue to foster the love of books and learning in struggling readers.
What other strategies do you have to share with us? Let us know in the comment section below!
