Dyslexia is a common learning difficulty that affects a child’s ability to read, spell, and write. It does not impact intelligence but can make traditional learning challenging. Asking the right questions can help a dyslexic child feel supported, understood, and encouraged to express their struggles and strengths.
This topic explores essential questions to ask a dyslexic child to foster communication, boost their confidence, and help them succeed in learning.
Why Is It Important to Ask Questions?
Children with dyslexia often feel frustrated, misunderstood, or even embarrassed about their learning difficulties. Asking thoughtful questions:
- Helps them express their feelings and challenges.
- Encourages self-awareness and confidence.
- Builds a strong parent-child or teacher-student relationship.
- Identifies areas where they need extra support.
- Reinforces that they are valued and capable.
By asking open-ended, non-judgmental questions, you create a safe space for the child to share their experiences.
General Questions to Start a Conversation
Sometimes, dyslexic children struggle to explain their difficulties. Starting with general questions can help them open up:
- What do you enjoy most about school?
- What subjects do you find the easiest?
- Are there any parts of school that feel frustrating for you?
- How do you feel about reading and writing?
- If you could change one thing about school, what would it be?
These questions allow the child to express their thoughts without pressure.
Questions About Reading Challenges
Reading is one of the biggest hurdles for dyslexic children. Understanding their struggles helps in finding the right solutions.
- What do you like or dislike about reading?
- Do certain words or letters seem to move or change when you read?
- Do you find it easier to read on a screen or on paper?
- Would you prefer to listen to a book rather than read it?
- Do you get tired or frustrated when reading for a long time?
By identifying what makes reading difficult, parents and teachers can explore strategies like audiobooks, dyslexia-friendly fonts, or larger text sizes.
Questions About Writing and Spelling
Dyslexia often affects spelling and writing abilities. Some children struggle with forming letters, while others forget spelling rules.
- Do you find writing by hand or typing easier?
- Are there certain words you always struggle to spell?
- Do you feel like you have good ideas but struggle to write them down?
- Would it help if you could dictate your thoughts instead of writing them?
- What do you think would make writing easier for you?
These insights can lead to adaptive strategies, such as voice-to-text software, structured spelling programs, or extra time for writing assignments.
Questions About Classroom Experiences
Understanding how a dyslexic child feels in a classroom setting can help create a more supportive learning environment.
- Do you feel comfortable asking for help in class?
- Are there moments in class when you feel lost or confused?
- Do you prefer working alone or in a group?
- What teaching methods work best for you? (e.g., visual aids, hands-on activities, listening exercises)
- How do you feel when the teacher asks you to read out loud?
Many dyslexic children feel anxious about being called on to read in front of their peers. Understanding these feelings allows educators to make learning less stressful.
Questions About Strengths and Interests
Dyslexia is not just about difficulties-it often comes with unique strengths like creativity, problem-solving skills, and strong verbal abilities.
- What are you really good at?
- Do you enjoy creative activities like drawing, music, or building things?
- What hobbies make you feel happy and confident?
- Do you find it easier to explain ideas out loud rather than writing them?
- If you could learn anything in a fun way, how would you like to learn?
Focusing on strengths helps dyslexic children see themselves as capable learners rather than struggling students.
Questions About Feelings and Self-Confidence
Dyslexia can impact self-esteem, especially if a child compares themselves to peers. Encouraging open conversations about emotions is essential.
- How do you feel when you make a mistake?
- Do you ever feel different from other kids?
- What makes you feel proud of yourself?
- How do you feel when people help you with reading or writing?
- What would make you feel more confident at school?
Validating their feelings and reassuring them that everyone learns differently helps build self-confidence.
Questions to Encourage Problem-Solving
Dyslexic children often develop creative ways to work around their challenges. Encouraging problem-solving fosters independence.
- What strategies help you when reading is difficult?
- Do you have a favorite way to remember tricky words?
- If you could design your perfect learning environment, what would it look like?
- What helps you stay focused when learning?
- What advice would you give to another child with dyslexia?
By empowering children to explore their own solutions, they develop resilience and self-advocacy skills.
How to Respond to a Dyslexic Child’s Answers
1. Be Patient and Supportive
Let the child express their thoughts without fear of judgment. Avoid interrupting or correcting them.
2. Acknowledge Their Feelings
If they express frustration, respond with empathy:
- “I understand that reading can feel frustrating. Let’s find a way to make it easier for you.”
3. Offer Encouragement
Celebrate their strengths:
- “You’re really good at explaining ideas out loud! Maybe we can use voice recording for your homework.”
4. Find Practical Solutions Together
If they mention struggling with spelling, suggest using spell-check tools or phonetic learning techniques.
5. Keep the Conversation Ongoing
Check in regularly:
- “Has reading become easier for you since we tried audiobooks?”
Dyslexic children’s needs change as they grow, so keeping an open dialogue helps them feel supported over time.
Asking thoughtful questions to a dyslexic child helps them feel understood and supported. By focusing on their experiences, strengths, and challenges, parents and teachers can create a more positive and effective learning environment.
Every dyslexic child is unique. By listening, adapting, and encouraging them, we can help them develop confidence, resilience, and a love for learning.