How to Build Confidence and Self Esteem in Dyslexic Learners

Many parents worry about how dyslexia might affect their child’s confidence. You may notice your child working harder than others, doubting their abilities or feeling anxious about reading or writing. These feelings are understandable, but they do not have to shape your child’s future. With the right support, confidence can grow and thrive.

This blog explores why confidence matters and how small, thoughtful steps can make a real difference.

Why confidence can waiver

Dyslexic learners often put in extra mental effort to process words, instructions or information. This can feel tiring. When tasks take longer or feel harder, children may start to compare themselves to classmates. Over time, this can affect how they view their abilities.

It helps to remember that dyslexia has nothing to do with intelligence. Many dyslexic people are creative thinkers, strong problem solvers and excellent communicators. Confidence grows when children understand this and feel supported.

During Dyslexia Awareness Week 2025, the British Dyslexia Association ran a poll on their social media channels asking “Where does dyslexia affect your confidence the most?” and the results indicated that education and work were the toughest areas for many.

How to help your child to see their strengths

A good starting point is to shine a light on what your child does well. These strengths may sit outside of reading and writing. They might be artistic, practical, imaginative or great at building things. When children see their strengths clearly, their sense of self becomes more balanced.

Try saying things like:

I love how you think things through.
You noticed something others missed.
You found a really clever solution.

Small comments like these can make a big difference.

Make learning feel safe and manageable

Confidence grows when children feel safe to try. Breaking tasks into smaller steps can help. It reduces overwhelm and makes it easier to get started.

You might try:

Shorter bursts of work.
Clear, simple instructions.
Extra time to practise.
Choosing tools that help, such as coloured overlays or audiobooks.

The goal is not to remove the challenge but to make the challenge feel achievable.

Celebrate effort, not perfection.

Dyslexic learners often worry about making mistakes. Remind them that mistakes are part of learning. When you praise effort, focus and bravery, children become more willing to try again.

Simple phrases such as:

You tried really hard with that.
I can see how much focus you used.
You kept going even when it was tricky.

These moments build resilience and pride.

Stay connected with school

Teachers play an important role in helping children feel seen and understood. If you notice your child’s confidence dipping, it can help to speak with their teacher. Together you can explore adjustments such as rest breaks, reduced copying or alternative ways to show learning.

A shared approach helps your child feel supported both at home and in the classroom. See our blog, “A school’s role in diagnosing dyslexia” for more.

Final thoughts

Confidence is not about removing every challenge. It is about helping a child feel capable, valued and understood. With patience, encouragement and the right tools, dyslexic learners can build a strong sense of self that carries them through school and beyond.

If you would like more guidance or tailored support, we are here to help.

About Dyslexia First

Dyslexia First provides first-class dyslexia assessments for children and adults across the North West.

Owner Michala Morton has worked in the field of Special Needs for over 20 years, across a wide range of educational settings. She works closely with The British Dyslexia Association and The Dyslexia Association assessing children and adults.

Based in Newton-le-Willows, Merseyside, Dyslexia First is conveniently accessible by train, linking to Central Liverpool, Manchester and cities within an hour’s commute.

By helping you to get the right support, a world of possibilities will open, that might not have seemed possible before.

How to Build Confidence and Self Esteem in Dyslexic Learners