8 things to help create a dyslexia-friendly classroom

Here are eight simple, practical strategies you can use to support every student in your classroom.

  • 1.

    Give one step at a time

    Break instructions into simple steps.

    Why it helps:
    Students with dyslexia can find it difficult to process and remember multiple instructions at once. One step at a time reduces overload and frustration.

    Good for everyone:
    All students benefit from clear, manageable directions and you’ll spend less time repeating yourself.

  • 2.

    Make instructions visual

    Show as well as tell.

    Why it helps:
    Students with dyslexia learn best when multiple senses are engaged. Combining visual, verbal and hands-on cues helps strengthen understanding and memory.

    Good for everyone:
    Using visuals helps all students absorb and retain new information more effectively.

  • 3.

    Preview and review

    Introduce and revisit key concepts.

    Why it helps:
    Previewing helps students prepare and organise new information. Reviewing helps them store and connect what they’ve learned.

    Good for everyone:
    Repetition is key to learning. It builds confidence and long-term understanding.

  • 4.

    Give transition warnings

    Prepare students for changes in activity

    Why it helps:
    Some students need extra time to shift their attention. Clear time warnings (e.g. 5 minutes, 2 minutes, 1 minute) reduce stress and help them stay engaged.

    Good for everyone:
    Transitions are smoother, with fewer disruptions and less frustration.

  • 5.

    Keep lessons short and varied

    Maintain focus and engagement.

    Why it helps:
    Students with dyslexia may lose focus more quickly, especially during repetitive tasks. Variety helps maintain attention and engagement.

    Good for everyone:
    All learners stay more focused when lessons are dynamic and varied.

  • 6.

    Support notetaking

    Provide templates or peer support.

    Why it helps:
    Writing and organising information at the same time can be very challenging. Extra support reduces stress and helps students capture key ideas.

    Good for everyone:
    Many students benefit from guidance on what’s important and from comparing notes with others.

  • 7.

    Slow down and check understanding

    Allow time for processing.

    Why it helps:
    Students with dyslexia often need more time to process information. Asking questions and encouraging students to explain ideas in their own words helps reinforce learning.

    Good for everyone:
    Adjusting pace and checking understanding ensures no one gets left behind.

  • 8.

    Make connections

    Linking new learning to prior knowledge. 

    Why it helps:
    Making connections helps students build stronger understanding and memory.

    Good for everyone:
    Not all students naturally make connections. Teaching this skill benefits the whole class.