Social and Emotional Impacts of Dyslexia
At Home Resources
At School Resources
Repeated struggles in school can lead to frustration, anxiety, and a loss of confidence, especially when peers appear to succeed with ease. Without understanding and support, this can result in low self-esteem, social withdrawal, or avoidance of academic tasks.
The social-emotional impact of dyslexia for older students who have been carrying the cumulative weight of years of struggle and trauma may be profound and require emotional and mental health support. When students with dyslexia are provided with intervention, effective supports, empathy, and encouragement, they can develop academic achievement, resilience, self-advocacy skills, and a sense of belonging that empowers them to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
Learn More
From Anxiety to Action: Supporting Social-Emotional Well-being in Kids with Dyslexia
How You Can Help
How to Support Your Child Emotionally by Building a Supportive Environment
- Validate Feelings: Acknowledge frustration, sadness, or anxiety as real and understandable. Avoid minimizing. Simply listening without adding comments or trying to fix the problem can be very powerful for some children, helping them feel truly heard and supported.
- Explain Dyslexia: Many find it comforting to know why reading is hard. It is helpful for them to know they are not alone. Dyslexia is common, and there are many stories of people with dyslexia as well as child/teen books that feature characters with dyslexia.
- Encourage Strengths: We all have strengths and weaknesses. Provide opportunities for your child to shine (e.g., art, sports, music, building, storytelling).
- Model Growth Mindset: Praise the persistence and the strategies used, not just outcomes. (e.g., “You worked hard on that!” rather than “You’re smart.”).
- Create Safe Spaces: Let home be a low-stress environment where mistakes are accepted and effort is celebrated.
- Watch for Signs of Anxiety and Depression: Changes in sleep, appetite, mood, and school refusal may signal the need for professional support.
- Promote Peer & Social Belonging: Encourage friendships in settings where reading is not central (i.e., clubs, sports, hobbies, etc.).
- Self-Advocacy Skills: Teach your child to explain their needs (e.g., “I use text-to-speech,” “I need more time”) in age-appropriate ways.
- Connect with Others: Join dyslexia parent support groups, attend events, and engage in online forums. Shared experience reduces isolation.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Build confidence, grit, and resilience by recognizing small gains and efforts.
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