Dyslexia & Dysgraphia
What is Dyslexia and Dysgraphia?
Dyslexia is a brain-based learning disability that makes learning to read, write, and/or spell difficult despite adequate instruction and intelligence. Dyslexia is a brain-based learning disability that makes learning to read, write, and/or spell difficult despite adequate instruction and intelligence.
Primary characteristics include difficulties:
- Learning the sounds letters make
- Reading words in isolation or reading unknown words
- Reading smoothly with enough speed and accuracy to comprehend
Spelling Secondary characteristics may include difficulty:
- Expressing ideas or concepts in writing
- Understanding what is read
Students with dyslexia may also present with additional difficulties and/ or disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), speech and language disorders, and/or other academic needs.
Your children are legally entitled to receive individualized services and supports. State and federal law require schools to have specific procedures in place to identify, locate, and evaluate students with, or suspected of having, dyslexia. Dyslexia is a learning disability that may require special education services.
Dyslexia & Dysgraphia Resources
Student Resources
Google Read & Write
Boost reading and writing confidence across all types of content and devices, in class, at work, and at home.
Typing Club
TypingClub is the most effective way to learn how to type.
It is web based and highly effective. TypingClub is (and will always be) free for both individuals and schools. There is an optional paid school edition.
Learning Ally
Learning Ally is a national non-profit organization that provides human-read audiobooks and assistive reading technology to support individuals with print-based disabilities, such as visual impairments or dyslexia.
Talking Book Program
The Talking Book Program (TBP) provides free library services to qualifying Texans with visual, physical, or reading disabilities. TBP is part of the National Library Service to the Blind and Print Disabled, a program administered by the Library of Congress.
Bookshare
Bookshare is the world's largest accessible online library for people with print disabilities, such as visual impairments, severe dyslexia, and cerebral palsy. It provides over 1.4 million titles—including textbooks, bestsellers, and career resources—in accessible formats like audio, braille, and large font.
Parent Resources
The Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity
The Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity focuses dyslexic individuals strengths throughout school and home, preparing them for a successful life.
International Dyslexia Association Fact Sheets
Fact Sheets are short, accessible documents created by the International Dyslexia Association. Written with classroom teachers in mind and reviewed by professionals, they provide research-based information for educators on topics related to literacy.
University of Michigan: Our Favorite Books List
At the University of Michigan, ee have identified some of our favorite books that you might find helpful. For each, we’ve provided a brief summary about the content. We know that there are many good books out there. If you have a book that you think would be helpful to others, please email your recommendation to us at dyslexiahelp@umich.edu.
Through Your Child's Eyes - Dyslexia Simulation
See what learning and everyday life feel like for kids with ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia. Get tools to help them thrive.