Dyslexia Resources for Families:
The Soundmill Centre Adelaide
Understanding and Supporting Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a specific learning disability with impairment in reading, characterised by persistent difficulties with accurate and fluent word reading, spelling, and decoding. These difficulties are language-based and occur despite adequate instruction, intelligence, and opportunity. In Australia, dyslexia is estimated to affect approximately 1 in 5 children, making it one of the most common learning differences.
Dyslexia is not caused by a lack of effort or motivation. Many children with dyslexia are bright, creative, and capable learners, but they require explicit, evidence-based instruction that targets the underlying language skills involved in reading.
Speech pathologists are uniquely qualified to assess and support dyslexia because reading and spelling rely on oral language skills such as phonological processing, phonemic awareness, vocabulary, and grammar. Comprehensive dyslexia assessment by a speech pathologist helps identify a child’s specific language and literacy profile and guides targeted intervention that supports long-term reading success. The Soundmill Centre is a registered member of the Australian Dyslexia Association and is involved in national research evaluating interventions for children with dyslexia.
The resources below provide families with evidence-based information, practical strategies, and guidance to better understand dyslexia and support children both at home and at school.
AUSPELD – Understanding Learning Difficulties
Explaining what dyslexia is, how it impacts children, and strategies that can be used at home and school.
Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity
US-based resource offering research, advocacy, and family-friendly articles on dyslexia.
Dyslexia-SPELD Foundation WA (DSF) – Parent Resources
Free printable booklet (birth–5 years) with checklists and growth tips.
Australian Dyslexia Association (ADA)
We are proud members of the Australian Dyslexia Association, supporting evidence-based practice
British Dyslexia Association – Parent Support
International site with guides, FAQs, and strategies for families.
Phonic Books support the teaching of reading by using a structured synthetic phonics approach
These resources are intended as a general guide and do not replace a comprehensive assessment or diagnosis. Dyslexia presents differently in each child, and understanding an individual’s specific language and literacy profile is essential for effective support. If you have concerns about your child’s reading, spelling, or learning — or if dyslexia has been raised by a teacher or school — a detailed assessment by a speech pathologist can provide clarity, direction, and practical next steps.