Teaching Professionals How to Communicate with People with Dyslexia

 

Why This Matters

People with dyslexia are intelligent and capable, but written communication can sometimes be harder to process.

When information is presented in complicated ways, it can lead to:

• confusion

• stress

• misunderstanding

• loss of confidence

Accessible communication helps people:

• understand information

• make decisions

• feel respected and included

This is why clear communication benefits everyone, not just people with dyslexia.

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Technique 1: Use Plain Language

Avoid complicated wording when simple words will work.

Instead of:
“The documentation must be submitted prior to the commencement of the programme.”

Say:
“Please send the forms before the course starts.”

Tips:

• Use short sentences

• Use everyday words

• Avoid jargon where possible

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Technique 2: Break Information into Steps

Large blocks of text can be difficult to process.

Instead of one long paragraph, use:

1. Short paragraphs

2. Bullet points

3. Step-by-step instructions

Example:

To apply:

1. Fill in the form

2. Attach your documents

3. Send the form by email

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Technique 3: Use Easy Read Where Appropriate

Easy Read uses:

• simple language

• short sentences

• pictures or symbols

• clear layout

Easy Read helps people with:

• dyslexia

• learning disabilities

• autism

• ADHD

• low literacy

• people learning English

Example:

Heading: Apply for Support

📄 Fill in the form
📎 Add your documents
📧 Email the form to us

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Technique 4: Use Dyslexia-Friendly Formatting

Presentation matters.

Helpful formatting includes:

• Large clear font (such as Arial or Verdana)

• Font size 12–14 or larger

• Good spacing between lines

• Left-aligned text

• Avoid italics and underlining

• Use headings to organise information

Avoid:

• dense paragraphs

• decorative fonts

• too many colours

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Technique 5: Use Multiple Ways to Share Information

Not everyone learns best by reading.

Professionals can also provide:

• verbal explanations

• visual diagrams

• short videos

• audio instructions

• step-by-step demonstrations

This approach supports different learning styles.

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Technique 6: Encourage Questions

Sometimes people hesitate to ask questions.

Professionals should say things like:

• “Please ask if anything is unclear.”

• “I’m happy to explain this again.”

• “Let me know if another format would help.”

This helps people feel safe and respected.

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Technique 7: Check Understanding

Instead of asking:

“Do you understand?”

Try:

“Would you like me to go over that again?”
or
“Can we check the next step together?”

This removes pressure and encourages communication.

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Key Message for Professionals

Accessible communication is not lowering standards.

It is about:

• removing barriers

• improving understanding

• treating people fairly

• helping everyone succeed

Clear communication benefits all readers, not just people with dyslexia.