Assistive Technology

Assistive technology (AT) for dyslexia includes a range of tools—from low-tech physical aids to high-tech software—designed to help individuals bypass challenges with reading, writing, and organization.

Google. (2026). Gemini 3 [Large language model]. https://gemini.google.com/

Core Categories of AT for Dyslexia

Text-to-Speech (TTS): Converts digital text into spoken words, allowing users to listen while following along. Popular tools include NaturalReader, Speechify, and built-in features like Microsoft Immersive Reader.
Audiobooks: Narrated books that provide access to grade-level content without the barrier of decoding. Services like Learning Ally and Bookshare offer extensive libraries for students with qualified disabilities.
Scanning/Reading Pens: Portable handheld devices (e.g., C-Pen Reader) that scan printed text and read it aloud through headphones.
Optical Character Recognition (OCR): Software such as Apple’s Live Text and Speak Selection/Accessibility Reader will convert photos of text (like worksheets or signs) into digital, readable text for text-to-speech access.
Accessibility Features: Morphic provides one-click access to key built-in accessibility and usability features.
Google. (2026). Gemini 3 [Large language model]. https://gemini.google.com/
Speech-to-Text (Dictation): Allows users to speak their thoughts, which the software transcribes into text. Examples include Dragon NaturallySpeaking and built-in tools like Google Docs Voice Typing or Apple Dictation.
Word Prediction: Suggests words as the user types to reduce the cognitive load of spelling. Most devices have this built into their accessibility features and can just be turned on. There are more specialized add-on tools like Co:Writer or Read&Write available as well.
Proofreading Tools: Advanced checkers for grammar, spelling, and punctuation like Grammarly or Ginger.
Google. (2026). Gemini 3 [Large language model]. https://gemini.google.com/
Graphic Organizers: Visual tools like mind maps (e.g., MindMeister, Inspiration) that help structure ideas before writing.
Digital Note-Taking: Specialized apps such as Notability or Evernote allow users to record audio while typing or drawing notes.
Smartpens: Devices like the Livescribe Smartpen record audio while writing, syncing the recording to the specific notes taken.
Google. (2026). Gemini 3 [Large language model]. https://gemini.google.com/
Dyslexia-Friendly Fonts: Special fonts like OpenDyslexic or Lexend designed to improve readability.
Display Settings: Tools to adjust background color, text size, and line spacing to reduce visual stress.
Low-Tech Options: Simple physical aids like reading rulers (to focus on one line at a time), and pencil grips.
Google. (2026). Gemini 3 [Large language model]. https://gemini.google.com/

AT for Other Subjects

Dyslexia often impacts math performance (e.g., following multi-step problems). AT includes talking calculators, electronic math worksheets (like ModMath), and virtual manipulatives.
Google. (2026). Gemini 3 [Large language model]. https://gemini.google.com/

The links below will take you to more information about assistive technology:

Website: https://dyslexiaida.org/
IDA is a leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals with dyslexia. It is an excellent source of information.
Links to informative IDA topics about assistive technology:
Overview of Instructional and Assistive Technology: Critical Tools for Students Who Struggle
https://dyslexiaida.org/instructional-and-assistive-technology-maximizing-the-benefits-for-students-who-struggle/
How to Advocate for Assistive Technology and Serviceshttps://dyslexiaida.org/how-to-advocate-for-assistive-technology-tools-and-services/
AT for Writing: What about Low Tech Accesshttps://dyslexiaida.org/at-for-writing-what-about-low-tech-access/
Assistive Technologyhttps://or.dyslexiaida.org/assistive-technology/
Webinar: Integrating Reading Supports with Educational Technology https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYNT-bXBZeE
Website: https://dyslexia.yale.edu/
The mission ofthe Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity is to illuminate the creative and intellectual strengths of those with dyslexia, to disseminate the latest scientific research and practical resources, and to transform the treatment of all dyslexic children and adults.
Links to informative YCDC topics:
Resources for Parents https://dyslexia.yale.edu/resources/parents/
Accommodations https://dyslexia.yale.edu/resources/parents/
Tools and Technology https://dyslexia.yale.edu/resources/tools-technology/
Website: https://www.understood.org/
Understood supports the 70 million people in the United States who have learning and thinking differences like dyslexia and ADHD. They focus on providing expert-vetted tools and information, driving behavior change, and building a world where all minds can thrive.
Links to informative Understood topics:
Dyslexia https://www.understood.org/en/topics/dyslexia
Signs and Symptoms https://www.understood.org/en/topics/signs-and-symptoms
School Supports https://www.understood.org/en/topics/school-supports
IEPS https://www.understood.org/en/topics/ieps
504 Plans https://www.understood.org/en/topics/504-plans
Assistive Technology https://www.understood.org/en/topics/assistive-technology
Managing Emotions https://www.understood.org/en/topics/managing-emotions
Stay Organized https://www.understood.org/en/topics/staying-organized
Parenting https://www.understood.org/en/topics/parenting
Website: https://www.learningally.org/solutions-for-home/overview
Learning Ally believes that learning begins with listening. By equipping early and struggling readers with human-read textbooks, trade books, and popular fiction, they help every student access information, acquire knowledge, and independently reach their full potential.
Links to informative Learning Ally topics:
Creating a Community Culture of Literacy https://learningally.org/solutions-for-school/family-involvement
Reading Specialist Directory https://learningally.org/solutions-for-home/dyslexia-resources/all-resources/specialistlisting
Solutions for Home https://learningally.org/solutions-for-home/overview
Dyslexia Resources https://learningally.org/solutions-for-school/dyslexia-resources
Eligibility Process for Learning Ally Household Memberships https://learningally.org/about-us/what-we-do/who-qualifies
Learning Ally Eligibility Criteria https://learningally.org/eligibility-criteria
Website: https://www.bookshare.org/
Bookshare is a vast, accessible digital library providing ebooks and textbooks for people with print disabilities like dyslexia, blindness, or physical impairments, offering customizable formats like audio, large print, braille, and highlighted text, and it's free for eligible U.S. students through a U.S. Department of Education grant, empowering inclusive reading for education and leisure.
Links to informative Bookshare topics:
What is Bookshare Library? https://www.bookshare.org/bookshare-library
What is Bookshare Reader? https://www.bookshare.org/bookshare-reader
Bookshare for Parents and Students https://www.bookshare.org/parents-and-students
Bookshare for Higher Education Students https://www.bookshare.org/higher-ed-students
Explore the Bookshare Library https://www.bookshare.org/explore
Website: https://dyslexiaondemand.com/
Dyslexia on Demand is a provider of virtual, Orton-Gillingham based, and multisensory academic language therapy for students from pre-K to adult, aimed at enhancing reading, writing, and spelling skills. It uses Certified Academic Language Therapists (CALTs) to deliver individualized, evidence-based instruction.’’
Top Five Assistive Technology Tools for Children with Dyslexiahttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZKmRv9PIiE
Website: https://www.openaccess-ca.org/
Open Access is committed to fostering accessible and high-functioning educational systems.
Links to informative Open Access topics:
Assistive Technology Specialists: Evolving in Real Time https://www.openaccess-ca.org/post/assistive-technology-specialists-evolving-in-real-time
Strengthening Home and School Collaboration Around Assistive Technology https://www.openaccess-ca.org/post/strengthening-home-and-school-collaboration-around-assistive-technology
What is Assistive & Accessible Technology? https://www.openaccess-ca.org/what-is-at
AT Resource Flipkit https://www.openaccess-ca.org/at-resource-flipkit
Website: https://preview.learnandtry.org/
Currently in development, Learn and Try will be a complete directory of built-in accessibility features and assistive technology tools, all in one place. Find what you need quickly and easily.