Finding out your child is dyslexic can be daunting. We’re here to support you with your challenges – and theirs.

Young Changemakers

Young Changemaker emblem

Would your young person make a great role model? Are they keen to inspire others and raise awareness about dyslexia in their school, club or community? Would you be happy to support them in this?

By putting into action just one or two simple ideas and with your help and guidance, your young person could become an official Young Dyslexia Scotland Changemaker and maybe your school or community’s very own dyslexia ambassador or champion.

How do I find out if my child is dyslexic?

Visit our page about assessing dyslexia in children and young people to find out what the process is.

If you think your child could be dyslexic, our leaflets will give you an introduction to dyslexia, such as support at school, things you can do at home and explaining dyslexia to children. You can contact our Helpline with any questions or for some advice.

How do I help my dyslexic child?

This video gives answers to common questions parents and carers have about dyslexia.

Your questions answered by a panel of experts

Family Membership

Dyslexia affects the whole family. As family members of Dyslexia Scotland, you can show your support for one another.

Get involved with your local Dyslexia Scotland Branch

Dyslexia Scotland’s volunteer-led Branches aim to raise awareness and understanding of dyslexia by holding meetings which are open to the public. Anyone with an interest in dyslexia is very welcome to attend – people with dyslexia, parents, professionals and more. Visit the Branch page to find your nearest meeting.

Parent Masterclasses

Dyslexia Scotland runs Parent Masterclasses to equip you with the skills, knowledge and confidence you need to help your child thrive. Visit our Events page for dates and details of live events or take our online Parent Masterclass course.

A mother puts her arm around her young daughter at the kitchen table. The daughter is drawing. They smile at one another.

Career guidance for your child

We made a book for parents to support their dyslexic child’s career journey. With a focus on strength awareness, lots of the activities are suitable for any age. Download Dyslexic Career Journeys to use with your child.

Gaelic Medium Education (GME)

If your child is in Gaelic medium education, dyslexia is just as possible as it is for children learning in only one language.

Because your child is learning to read and write in two languages (Gaelic and English), it can sometimes be harder to work out what is causing any difficulties. Learning two sound systems and two writing systems can make things more complicated. That’s why it’s important to look carefully at how your child is managing with the sounds and reading skills in both languages before coming to any conclusions.

For many children, English is the main language spoken at home. So it’s important to look at your child’s skills in English as well as in Gaelic.

The most important thing is that your child gets the right support as early as possible. If there is a gap between your child and their classmates, this gap should be carefully monitored so it doesn’t grow. Regular communication between school and home, along with clear support strategies, will help your child build their reading and writing skills with confidence.

Laurie’s experience

Emma’s story

“Fiachra was happy and engaged but was masking at school. His class teacher was supportive but Fiachra attends Gaelic Medium Education (GME). Children in GME generally get their formal dyslexia assessments later, as they learn to read and write in English at a later stage of primary school.”

Emma