Dyslexia, Reading & Writing Resources
Reading and writing don’t come easily for every child — and that doesn’t mean they aren’t smart or capable. Dyslexia is one of the most common learning differences, and with the right support, kids can thrive. These resources reflect what we share with families in our practice: practical tools, affirming perspectives, and ways to build skills while celebrating strengths.
Books
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Overcoming Dyslexia — Sally Shaywitz, M.D.
This is the most research-heavy book on dyslexia and has been a go-to resource for years. Dr. Shaywitz explains how the brain processes reading and what interventions actually help. It’s thorough, practical, and especially useful for parents who want to understand the science behind dyslexia and the supports that work best.​
My favorite takeaway is her clear message that dyslexia has nothing to do with intelligence. Kids can be incredibly bright and creative, yet still struggle with decoding words — and with the right teaching, they can thrive.
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The Gift of Dyslexia — Ronald D. Davis
This book takes a very different approach from Shaywitz’s. Instead of focusing on research, Davis highlights the lived experience of dyslexia and the gifts that can come with it. Some of his methods are more controversial, but what stands out is the affirmation that kids with dyslexia often bring unique strengths — like creativity, innovation, and big-picture thinking.
My favorite takeaway is the reminder that dyslexia isn’t just about challenges, it’s also about different ways of seeing the world.
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I love how these two books balance each other. Shaywitz gives a scientific roadmap, while Davis reminds us to celebrate strengths. Together, they cover both the “how to support” and the “why it matters.”
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Apps & Programs
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Mrs. Wordsmith — playful phonics and vocabulary (like Blah Blah Blah)
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Night Zookeeper — creative writing in a gamified world
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Endless Reader / Endless Wordplay / Endless ABC — interactive reading apps
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Word Wagon / DDM Reading — early reading support
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ABCmouse & ABCya — broad learning platforms with literacy content
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Simplex Spelling — advanced spelling and phonics
Games
Fun, hands-on ways to practice language and spelling:
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Boggle
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Scrabble Junior
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BananaGrams
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Squishyland — playful fidget-style learning games
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Fidget Games — interactive, sensory-friendly play
Audiobooks & Listening Tools
Listening to books is such an important way for kids with dyslexia to access stories and build comprehension:
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Learning Ally — audiobooks designed for dyslexia
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Audible Kids — huge range of children’s audiobooks
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Libby — free library audiobooks
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Toniebox — screen-free audio storytelling device for kids
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Yoto Player — kid-friendly audio player with cards for books, music, and podcasts
Podcasts can also be a great way for kids to enjoy storytelling without the stress of text. Shows like Brains On!, Smash Boom Best, and Circle Round are engaging and language-rich.