Supporting Someone With Dyslexia

Have you ever wondered how to truly support someone who thinks a bit differently? In this episode, we explore simple ways to show you care for a child, friend, or partner facing those unique dyslexia or ADHD challenges. Whether it’s offering a listening ear or giving them the space they need, we dive into practical ideas that can make a real difference.

You’ll find the podcast’s player right at the top of the page. In this conversation, I focus on the power of empathy, consistent understanding, and open communication. We talk about how small actions can leave a big impact. If you’re looking for new ways to be there for someone you love, then this episode is your go-to. Below, I’ve summarised the core tips and insights.

The Importance of Understanding Their Experiences

First things first, it helps to put yourself in their shoes. A child might be struggling in school while a friend isn’t sure how to juggle work and day-to-day life. A partner may already feel frustrated if the rest of the world expects them to be a certain way. By recognising their experiences, you’re letting them know they’re not alone.

Dyslexia and ADHD often come with hidden stress. That’s because there’s a constant need to figure out how to focus, organise, or simply keep pace with everyday tasks. When you’re aware of the background tension, it’s easier to avoid jumping to conclusions when they seem distracted or forgetful. This simple shift in thinking helps create a more open and patient mindset.

“One of the best ways to show you truly care is by listening without judgement.”

This line from the episode really resonated with me. Instead of offering instant solutions, start by asking, “How does this feel for you?” or “What do you think might help?” A gentle question can be far more powerful than a long list of recommendations.

Practical Ways to Show Support

Sometimes we assume that support must be grand or expensive, but the truth is that simple gestures can be enough. Often, people just want to feel seen and heard. Let’s go through a few practical approaches.

• Ask about their goals: Whether it’s a child who wants to read more confidently or a partner trying to organise time better, find out what they hope to accomplish.
• Create visual aids: Suggest sticky notes, calendars, or to-do lists. If you’re helping a friend, you could even plan a shared digital calendar to keep track of events.
• Offer consistent check-ins: A quick message asking, “How’s your day going?” might not seem like much, but it can provide a needed sense of security and remind them you’re there.
• Celebrate small wins: If a child learns a new word or your partner remembers to pay a bill on time, acknowledge it. These moments foster confidence.

Even if you only pick one idea from that list, you’re on the right track. A single act of support might lighten someone’s load more than you realise.

Encouraging Self-Advocacy

We often jump into “fix it” mode. It’s easy to do. But the people we care for sometimes need the space to work things out on their own. One of the biggest gifts you can give is empowerment. Ask questions that guide them to find solutions independently.

For instance, if a child is struggling with spelling, help them discover resources or approaches that could work for their style of learning. You might try apps or short reading exercises they can manage without feeling drained. If it’s an adult friend, suggest different relaxation techniques or time-blocking methods, and encourage them to choose what feels right.

The magic here is that they learn to speak up about what’s working and what isn’t. When someone feels comfortable saying “I need a break” or “I prefer audio-books,” they can advocate for their own needs. That skill can last their entire life, at home, in school, or at work.

Nurturing a Positive Mindset

Let’s face it. Life can be tough when your brain wants to wander. It’s easy to get lost in negative feelings. That’s why helping your loved one notice their strengths is crucial. It might seem small, but comments like, “I love how creative you are,” or “Your perspective is so fresh,” do wonders for confidence.

The negativity that sometimes comes with feeling “different” can be a real weight. You might notice your partner blaming themselves when things go wrong. Or maybe a friend says, “I’m just not smart.” You can’t fix these thoughts overnight, but you can remind them of the facts—dyslexia or ADHD doesn’t define intelligence. Reinforce every little success.

A positive mindset doesn’t mean ignoring challenges. Instead, it’s about acknowledging what’s tough while also celebrating the positives. This balance often makes the journey feel more doable. On days when everything feels hard, a small note of encouragement, a smile, or a quick joke can bring a sense of relief.

Bringing It All Together

We should remember that each person’s needs will differ. A young child might need routine and playful learning. A spouse or partner might simply want you to be patient when they lose their keys for the third time that week. A friend may appreciate gentle reminders for social engagements or tasks.

Don’t underestimate how valuable it is to say, “I’m here for you.” That might be the difference between someone feeling isolated and feeling part of a supportive team. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s about building trust, understanding, and genuine care.

When we stop trying to force change and start working alongside the person, we open a new door. That door leads to more open conversations, better solutions, and a stronger bond. In the end, it’s a partnership. You want them to feel confident enough to tackle what comes their way, knowing they have someone in their corner.

• Listen before offering answers.
• Ask questions that prompt reflection.
• Encourage small, realistic steps.
• Highlight their strengths and talents.
• Provide consistent emotional support.

Life with dyslexia or ADHD can be an interesting journey. But it doesn’t have to be a lonely one. With a little empathy and genuine curiosity, you can help someone move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling capable and supported. We covered quite a bit in the episode, and there’s always more to learn.

If you’re curious about the deeper conversation and want to hear the personal stories I shared, click play at the top of the page. By listening, you’ll get a fuller sense of how these tips fit into real-life scenarios. Feel free to tune in when you have a moment—you never know which small insight might spark the breakthrough you’ve been looking for.

Give it a whirl, and let me know what you think. Are there any tips you’re going to try right away? If so, I’d love to hear how it goes. Thanks for reading, and be sure to give the full episode a listen for more insights and personal stories.

Ready to dig deeper? Press play on the podcast above and unleash your inner supporter. Whether you’re helping a child, friend, or partner, every little step counts.