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Why School Feels Hard (and how we change that)

Picture of Belinda Vesey-Brown

6-Apr-01-2026-07-01-50-1166-AM

Rethinking learning for children with dyslexia and why it actually works for everyone

Let’s get one thing straight.

A child with dyslexia isn’t lazy, they’re not “behind.” They’re being taught in a way that doesn’t match how their brain works.

Dyslexia affects around 5–10% of learners
https://dyslexiaida.org/dyslexia-basics/

And here’s the truth: They can absolutely thrive when we teach differently.

Teach Smarter, Not Harder

The most effective approach? Structured literacy. Explicit, step-by-step phonics that builds confidence. Backed by evidence like the National Reading Panel: https://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/nrp/Documents/report.pdf

Pair that with simple classroom shifts:

  • Extra time
  • Less copying
  • Notes provided
  • Smaller chunks of work

Small changes. Big impact.

Use Tech as a Superpower

Tools like:

help kids access learning without getting stuck on decoding.

https://www.readingrockets.org/article/assistive-technology-kids-learning-and-attention-issues

Now, AI takes it further:

  • Simplifies text instantly
  • Reads aloud
  • Adapts content to the learner
  • Offers judgement-free practice

That’s not support. That’s empowerment.

Confidence Changes Everything

Struggle with reading often becomes: “I’m not smart.” That’s the real risk. Research highlights the emotional impact clearly: https://dyslexia.yale.edu/resources/dyslexia/dyslexia-faq/

So we shift the focus to Praise effort, not perfection, offer choice, not pressure and prioritise ideas over spelling, because when you do, confidence drives learning.

Make It Multi-Sensory

The brain learns better when more senses are involved, so get in visuals, movement and hands-on tools. Supported by the International Dyslexia Association:https://dyslexiaida.org/effective-reading-instruction/

The Bigger Shift

The part that matters most, isn’t about doing things differently for a child with dyslexia. It’s about doing things differently, full stop. Because these strategies have been shown to improve engagement, reduce anxiety and increase understanding for all learners.

Every child has a different way of learning. Call it dyslexia, call it a difference or call it a superpower. The truth is that when we design learning that actually works, everyone benefits, not just the kids who struggle and not just the kids who learn differently. Everyone.