"My child can use speech-to-text to write. They can listen to audiobooks rather than read them. So do they still need to learn to read and spell?"

It's a question I hear more frequently as assistive technology becomes part of everyday life in schools and at home.

The answer is simple:

Yes. Children with dyslexia still need to learn to read and spell. But they shouldn't have to wait until they've mastered these skills before they can access learning.

A False Choice

Sometimes the conversation around assistive technology becomes an either/or debate.

Either teach literacy skills or use technology.

In reality, the most effective approach is usually both.

A child with dyslexia still benefits from high-quality reading and spelling instruction. They need opportunities to develop their understanding of sounds, words, spelling patterns and language.

At the same time, they need ways to access the curriculum, complete independent work and demonstrate their understanding.

Technology helps bridge that gap.

Think About Glasses

If a child needs glasses, we don't stop teaching them to read.

We don't say:

"Once your eyesight improves, then you can access books."

Instead, we provide the support they need while they continue learning.

Assistive technology works in a similar way.

It reduces barriers while children continue to develop their literacy skills.

What Technology Can Do

Today's learners have access to a wide range of tools:

• Text-to-speech can read text aloud.
• Speech-to-text allows children to dictate ideas rather than struggle to write every word.
• Audiobooks provide access to rich vocabulary, stories and knowledge.
• Accessibility tools can reduce effort and increase independence.

Many of these features are built into devices children already use every day.

The work of CALL Scotland has helped demonstrate how assistive technology can increase participation, independence and access to learning for pupils with additional support needs. Their website provides practical guidance on tools such as text-to-speech, speech recognition, accessible books and digital accessibility features.

CALL Scotland, CALL Scotland Information and Education Scotland: CALL Scotland offer further information.

But Reading Still Matters

Technology can support access, but it doesn't replace literacy.

Reading helps children:

• Build vocabulary
• Develop background knowledge
• Improve comprehension
• Learn independently
• Access future education and employment opportunities

The goal is not to replace reading.

The goal is to make sure reading difficulties do not prevent learning while those skills continue to develop.

And Spelling Still Matters Too

Children still benefit from understanding:

• Word structure
• Prefixes and suffixes
• Common spelling patterns
• The relationship between sounds and letters

Spellcheckers can help. Predictive text can help.

But understanding how words work remains important.

What the Best Schools Are Doing

Increasingly, schools are moving away from the idea that support should only begin once a child reaches a certain level.

Instead, they are asking:

"What adjustments will allow this child to participate successfully today?"

That might include:

• Explicit literacy teaching
• Audiobooks
• Dictation software
• Text-to-speech
• Accessible worksheets
• Extra processing time

The focus is shifting from compensation to inclusion.

A Better Question

Perhaps the question isn't:

"Should my child use assistive technology?"

Instead, we should ask:

"What combination of teaching and technology will help my child flourish?"

For most dyslexic learners, the answer is both.

Want to Explore Assistive Technology?

CALL Scotland offers excellent free guidance for parents and educators, including information on text-to-speech, speech recognition and accessibility tools. Useful resources include:

• CALL Scotland
• Dyslexia and Assistive Technology
• Text-to-Speech Guide

The Key Message

Teaching develops skills. Technology removes barriers.

Children with dyslexia need both.

And perhaps that's one of the most important changes we're seeing in dyslexia support today: recognising that success isn't about choosing between literacy instruction and technology. It's about using every available tool to help children learn, participate and thrive.

How Thanet Dyslexia Services Can Help

A dyslexia assessment doesn't just identify strengths and areas of need. It can also provide practical recommendations about the adjustments, strategies and technologies that may help your child access learning more confidently and independently.

If you're wondering whether your child would benefit from a dyslexia assessment or assistive technology, get in touch to discuss the next steps.