https://civilservice.blog.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/86/2020/03/Dyslexia-Dyspraxia-Dyscalculia-and-Dysgraphia-Line-Manager-Toolkit.pdf
πΊπΈ U.S. Resources for Managers on SpLDs (dyslexia, dyspraxia,
dyscalculia, dysgraphia)
1. Oklahoma Dyslexia & Dysgraphia Handbook
This is a state-level guide focused on assistive technologies (AT) and
workplace accommodations for adults with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia.
It includes practical AT tools like text-to-speech, dictation, and handwriting
support. Welcome to Oklahoma's Official Web Site.
2. Pearson’s U.S. Dyslexia Toolkits
Pearson offers separate “toolkit” PDFs on dysgraphia and dyscalculia. These
include signs/symptoms, differentiation, and recommended intervention methods,
useful for managers understanding of employee challenges.
3. Ohio “Neurodiversity at Work” Guide
Published by the State of Ohio, this guide addresses neurodiverse employees
(including those with SpLDs). It outlines legal frameworks (ADA), recommended
adjustments, and strategies managers can use to foster inclusion.
4. Civil Service Northern Ireland Toolkit
Though UK-based, it addresses a broader neurodiversity spectrum—ADHD, autism,
dyspraxia, dyscalculia and more—and offers practical workplace guidance that’s
still relevant in U.S. context tcd.ie+4civilserviceworld.com+4theiet.org+4.
π How to Adapt These for U.S. Line Managers
·
Legal Alignment:
Replace UK legal references (e.g., Equality Act) with U.S. ADA and Section 504.
·
Terminology:
Shift to U.S.-preferred language—"individualized accommodation plan"
instead of “workplace adjustment passport.”
·
Tool Spotlight:
Incorporate assistive tech used in U.S. – text-to-speech, dictation software,
math apps.
·
Add
Federal/Local Resources: Link to NCLD, Understood.org, state vocational rehab
programs, or university disability offices.
π Next Steps
·
Build a
U.S.-centric toolkit by combining the concise structure of the UK toolkit with
content from the U.S. sources above.
·
Include
relevant sections: definitions, strengths/challenges, accommodations, assistive
technology, legal framework, conversation guidance, and sample plans.
·
Download links:
o Oklahoma handbook: PDF detailing AT and accommodations Welcome to Oklahoma's Official Web Site+1files.eric.ed.gov+1
o Pearson’s toolkits on dysgraphia & dyscalculia ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+4pearsonassessments.com+4pearsonassessments.com+4
o Ohio neurodiversity guide: what SpLDs look like and workplace
strategies pearsonassessments.com+5dam.assets.ohio.gov+5tcd.ie+5
π§ Neurodiversity at Work: Line Manager Toolkit
Supporting
Employees with Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia (U.S. Edition)
Based on ADA, U.S. workplace guidance, and assistive technology supports
✅ Section 1: Understanding the Conditions
Condition |
What It Is |
Common Workplace Impacts |
Dyslexia |
Language-based
learning disability affecting reading and writing |
Slow reading,
spelling errors, trouble with written communication |
Dyspraxia |
A motor
coordination disorder affecting movement and planning |
Clumsiness,
difficulty with tasks needing fine motor skills |
Dyscalculia |
Difficulty
understanding numbers and math concepts |
Struggles
with time, money, measurements, calculations |
Dysgraphia |
Difficulty
with writing, spelling, and handwriting |
Illegible
handwriting, trouble organizing thoughts on paper |
π ️ Section 2: Legal Responsibilities
·
Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act:
- Employers must provide reasonable accommodations.
- Employees are not required to disclose their
condition but may request support.
- Retaliation for disclosure or requesting
accommodations is prohibited.
π‘ Section 3: Reasonable Workplace Accommodations
Examples of
Practical Adjustments:
Need |
Possible Accommodations |
Difficulty
reading printed text |
Text-to-speech
software (e.g., Read&Write, Kurzweil) |
Slow
processing or memory recall |
Extra time
for tasks, checklists, and summaries |
Trouble with
handwriting |
Use of
speech-to-text tools or typing instead |
Poor spatial
awareness (dyspraxia) |
Clear
signage, quiet workspace, avoid clutter |
Math-related
difficulties |
Calculators,
visual aids, number-line tools |
Organization/planning
challenges |
Digital
calendars, reminders, task breakdowns |
π€ Section 4: Conversations with Employees
·
Create a safe
and confidential space to discuss needs.
·
Use person-first,
respectful language.
·
Ask:
“What adjustments would help you do your job comfortably?”
“Are there specific tools or environments that support you?”
·
Document the
agreed accommodations in a Workplace Support Plan or Individual
Accommodation Plan (IAP).
π± Section 5:
Assistive Technology Recommendations
·
Reading/Spelling Support: Read&Write, NaturalReader,
Grammarly
·
Writing Support: Dragon NaturallySpeaking, Microsoft Dictate
·
Planning Tools: Trello, Microsoft To-Do, Google Calendar
·
Math Tools: ModMath (for dyscalculia), talking calculators
π§° Section 6:
Manager's Toolkit Downloads (Suggested)
·
π Workplace Support Plan Template
·
π Example Job Adjustment Letter
·
π Easy Read Summary Sheet
·
π₯️ Employee Guide to Assistive Tech
·
⚖️ ADA and Section
504 Summary
(I can help you create editable versions of all these)
π Section 7: Where
to Get Help
Organization |
What They
Offer |
Website |
Understood.org |
Employee/manager education & support |
|
Job Accommodation Network |
Legal advice and accommodation suggestions |
|
National Center for Learning Disabilities |
Advocacy and workplace tools |
|
State Vocational Rehab Services |
Job support and accommodations funding |
[Search your state + "voc rehab"] |
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