Why are Audio Books so Important for Kids with Dyslexia?

Kids with dyslexia struggle to read. Reading is often slow, dysfluent and not automatic. Their brains are working so hard to decode the words they are reading; they often do not have any brain power left to comprehend what they read.

With reading, we learn to read by practicing reading. We gain expansive vocabulary the more we read.

One amazing accommodation used with many kids with dyslexia is the use of audio books.

There are many benefits to audio books with these being some of them:

• Access to grade level curriculum. Kids with dyslexia are smart and being able to listen to grade level curriculum helps to level the playing field with their peers and ensures they keep up with grade level vocabulary and material.

• Increase vocabulary and word exposure. This is so important for developing comprehension as well as linking pronunciation of the word when they are trying to read the word later.

• Models fluent reading. This is so important for people with poor reading skills to listen to fluent reading.

• Increases comprehension. Audio books are a great way to allow the individual to listen to a story and focus on the content of the text and build comprehension.

• Enjoyment of books. Audio books allows readers who struggle reading visually, to enjoy books and develop a passion for books.

There are many avenues for audio books. Some of the resources we use are:

• youtube

• libby (free through the library)

• Audible (subscription)

• OverDrive (free through library)

• Storynory (kids)