Assistive Technology – A Summary and Links to the Best Tools | Dyslexia UK
Assistive Technology – A Summary and Links to the Best ToolsAssistive technology plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with dyslexia, helping them read, write, and manage daily tasks more. . .
Assistive Technology – A Summary and Links to the Best ToolsAssistive technology plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with dyslexia, helping them read, write, and manage daily tasks more independently. Tools such as text-to-speech (TTS), speech-to-text, and visual planning apps reduce cognitive load and make learning more accessible. Below is a clear guide to the best assistive technologies available today. Key TakeawaysAssistive technology helps people with dyslexia read, write, and stay organised more independently. Google Lens, Chrome Reading Mode, Immersion Reading, and Windows tools offer strong reading support. Free tools such as Natural Reader, Immersive Reader, ATBar, and browser extensions provide TTS and visual aids. Speech-to-text tools like Dictate for Word, Siri, and Google Voice Typing reduce typing effort and increase independence. Visual planning apps such as Tiimo support dyslexic, ADHD, and autistic learners through clear visual routines. Google Lens for Reading Supporthttps://www. callscotland. org. uk/blog/google-lens-a-brilliant-tool-for-supporting-learners-with-reading-difficultiesWhat it does:Google Lens uses OCR (Optical Character Recognition) to turn photos of text into readable, selectable text. Best for:Learners who struggle to read worksheets, signs, or printed information. Devices:Works on Windows, Chromebooks, iOS, and Android. Google Lens is particularly powerful for dyslexic learners who find reading dense text tiring or who struggle to describe things verbally. A student can, for example, take a photo of a worksheet and have the text read aloud instantly. Google Chrome Reading Mode for Dyslexic Learnershttps://www. callscotland. org. uk/blog/google-chromes-best-kept-secret-reading-modeWhat it does:Simplifies web pages into a distraction-free, readable panel. Features:Adjustable background colourAdjustable fonts and spacingCleaner two-column reading formatReading Mode creates a clearer, more predictable layout that reduces visual stress. While it does not include TTS, users can pair it with tools like Natural Reader or the Immersive Reader extension. How Immersion Reading Technology Helps Dyslexic Readershttps://www. linkedin. com/pulse/struggling-readers-dyslexia-power-immersion-reading-amanda-warrenImmersion Reading combines human-narrated audio with synchronised, highlighted eBook text. This dual-input approach reduces decoding effort and increases comprehension and enjoyment. Best for:Learners who avoid reading due to fatigue or decoding difficulty. Example:A child who normally refuses to read may follow along with a highlighted Kindle book while listening to spoken narration, making reading more motivating and manageable. Tiimo – Visual Planning App for ADHD, Autism, and Dyslexiahttps://www. tiimoapp. comTiimo helps users manage daily tasks through clear visual routines. What it does:Creates a visual timeline with colour-coded iconsBreaks tasks into smaller, AI-generated stepsShows routines through widgets and remindersBest for:People who struggle with time blindness, organisation, or transitions. This tool makes time feel more concrete and predictable, reducing anxiety and supporting executive functioning. Free Windows Software to Support Reading for Dyslexic Learnershttps://www. callscotland. org. uk/blog/the-best-free-windows-software-to-support-readingBuilt-in ToolsImmersive Reader: line focus, picture dictionary, TTSRead Aloud: reads Word documents aloudFree AlternativesNatural ReaderATBarSpeak (offline capability)Many learners prefer these because they work offline, support a range of voices, and offer simpler visual customisation. Chrome/Edge extensions such asClaroRead Chromeadd coloured overlays and speech-to-text for web browsing. Free Software Tools to Support Writing for Dyslexiahttps://www. callscotland. org. uk/blog/free-brilliant-software-tools-to-support-writingSpeech recognition tools:Dictate for WordSiriGoogle Voice TypingVoice Access (Windows 11 offline)Voice Control (iPad offline)These tools help dyslexic learners turn spoken ideas into written text quickly. Users should still proofread by using text-to-speech, as speech recognition is not error-free. Frequently Asked Questions About Assistive Technology for DyslexiaHow does assistive technology help people with dyslexia?Assistive technology reduces the effort needed to read and write. TTS reads text aloud so users can focus on meaning rather than decoding. Speech-to-text supports writing without typing or spelling. Visual overlays and line focus tools make text easier to track. What are the best free tools for reading?Top free tools include Immersive Reader, Read Aloud, Natural Reader, ATBar, and Speak. Browser extensions like ClaroRead Chrome add overlays and TTS for webpages. How does Immersion Reading support dyslexic readers?It uses human-narrated audio alongside highlighted text, which lowers cognitive load. Learners follow words more easily and enjoy reading more. How can speech recognition help with writing?Speech-to-text lets users dictate ideas instead of typing, helpful for those with spelling, handwriting, or fatigue challenges. Proofreading through TTS remains essential. What is Tiimo and who is it for?Tiimo is a visual planning app for people with ADHD, Autism, dyslexia, or anyone who benefits from visual structure. It uses icons, colours, and timelines to support routines and organisation. Assistive technology is evolving rapidly and offers powerful support for dyslexic learners. These tools increase independence, reduce barriers, and encourage confidence at school, work, and home. Explore the links above to find the tools that best meet your needs. Contact us to discuss a remote assessment via Zoom:https://www. dyslexiauk. co. uk/contact-us/