How To Explain Dyslexia (The Easy Way) With Andrée Kenny

Have you ever tried to explain dyslexia to someone and felt like you weren’t getting anywhere? It’s not always easy to describe how dyslexia affects day-to-day life. In the latest episode of our podcast (player above), Stephen and Andrée share what it really looks like inside a dyslexic mind and how you can talk about it so others understand.

In this post, we’ll explore how dyslexia is a different way of thinking and processing information. We’ll look at why early diagnosis and support tools matter, and how dyslexia often pairs with ADHD or dyspraxia. We’ll also share generous tips on explaining dyslexia to friends, family, and colleagues.

Understanding Dyslexia: A Different Way of Thinking

Dyslexia is often labelled a learning difficulty, but many people with dyslexia see it as a different approach. It’s more about how the brain takes in and manages information. Some parts might be trickier—like reading or spelling—but other areas can be supercharged, often in creativity, problem-solving, or empathy.

This fresh viewpoint is what sets people with dyslexia apart. They’re not failing to fit a standard model. They’re showing us that there’s no single way to learn and process knowledge. It can take time to believe that, especially if you’ve grown up feeling “not good enough.” Once you realise it’s a variation, you start seeing the huge potential in thinking differently.

“Dyslexia isn’t a disability; it’s a different way of thinking and processing information.”

Early Diagnosis and Comorbidities

Many people don’t find out they have dyslexia until they’re older. By then, their study or work habits might have taken a toll on their confidence. Early diagnosis can nip those negative feelings in the bud and give you a head start in finding helpful strategies.

There’s also the matter of comorbidity. Dyslexia often shows up with ADHD, dyspraxia, or even high levels of anxiety. These can overlap and make life feel a bit more complicated. But once you recognise those connections, you can build a more effective toolkit for handling them. Some people find that an ADHD diagnosis unlocks even more ways to manage dyslexia, and vice versa.

Using Analogies to Explain Dyslexia

Communicating dyslexia to others might feel daunting. Analogies can help paint a picture. Imagine you’re using an outdated software program on your computer. It can still get the job done, but the process might take longer, and sometimes it crashes. It’s not incapable; it just operates differently. That’s how the dyslexic brain can feel—doing the same tasks as everyone else, but with a few more steps and a unique way of getting there.

When someone hears a real-life example, it’s easier for them to relate. It also removes the stigma. Explaining that you may need extra time to read something, or prefer to listen to audiobooks instead of diving into text, makes sense when you link it to a story they can visualise.

Finding the Right Tools and Strategies

Once you understand how your mind works, you can look for tools that play to your strengths. Spell-checkers, speech-to-text apps, colour overlays, or even good old-fashioned highlighters can work wonders. People sometimes assume these are “cheats,” but they’re just aids to level the playing field.

If possible, mix and match. Each person with dyslexia has different struggles, so it’s about finding what fits you. Some prefer digital tools, others rely on pen and paper. Try new methods. Don’t keep doing something that frustrates you. Dyslexia is more than a label—it’s a prompt to harness creativity and problem-solving in ways that make daily tasks easier.

• Explore apps like speech readers to tackle large blocks of text.
• Use checklists or reminders to organise your day.
• Break tasks into small steps to keep overwhelm at bay.
• Seek out mentors or friends who share similar challenges.

Communicating Your Needs

Telling people what you need can feel awkward. But if you don’t speak up, no one will know how to help. Mention that you read better on coloured paper, or prefer to see things written in bigger font. In workplaces or schools, try letting your manager or teacher know your strengths. This can lead to better collaborations—especially if you’re the “ideas person” in a group.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request a quick recap of a meeting. People will usually be glad to help. Be honest about places where you struggle. Dyslexia touches many areas of your life, so building communication skills is a lifelong habit.

• Explain dyslexia to friends or family with a simple analogy.
• Ask for extra clarification or a summary if instructions weren’t clear.
• Set clear boundaries so you don’t burn out trying to do it all.

When you open up about what’s going on, you’ll likely find you’re not alone. Dyslexia is more common than people realise, and sharing your experiences may inspire others to speak up too.

Key Takeaways

• Dyslexia is a different way of thinking and processing, not a disability.
• Early diagnosis helps build confidence and connect you with support tools.
• Dyslexia often goes hand in hand with ADHD or dyspraxia.
• Simple analogies and personal stories can help others understand dyslexia better.
• Ask for help if you need it—communicating your needs makes life easier.

Curious to hear the entire conversation? Be sure to listen to the full episode above. You can also find more about Andrée Kenny’s work with ADHD & Dyslexia at https://andreekenny.com. And if you’d like more resources, head over to truthaboutdyslexia.com or join our Facebook community at facebook.com/groups/adultdyslexia. We’d love to hear your questions, share your stories, and celebrate dyslexic thinking with you.