June is full of change. Exams come to an end, university preparation begins, and families start thinking about the summer holidays. It’s a perfect time to reflect on how we support dyslexic children, teenagers and young adults through periods of change.
For dyslexic learners, transitions can be exciting, yet overwhelming. New routines, new expectations and new environments can amplify challenges with organisation, processing and confidence. With the right support, though, these transitions can become opportunities for growth.
1. After Exams: Help Them Recover and Reflect
Exams place huge demands on working memory, reading, writing and processing speed. When they’re over, dyslexic students often feel both relieved and exhausted.
Top tips:
- Give plenty of downtime to recover from mental fatigue
- Celebrate effort, not just results
- Reflect on what worked well this year
- Look ahead to what’s next — sixth form, college, university, apprenticeship
If ongoing difficulties are still showing, this may be a good time to consider whether a dyslexia assessment could offer clarity and unlock support.
2. School Transitions: Early Communication with New Teachers
Moving up a year can be tricky for dyslexic children. New teachers may not yet know your child's learning profile or what strategies have been effective.
Top tips:
- Share key information early – strengths, challenges and what works
- Provide copies of reports or assessments
- Discuss access arrangements for tests or classroom tasks
- Encourage your child to explain what helps them
Clear communication ensures support is in place from day one.
3. Summer Holidays: Keep Learning Light and Fun
A long break is welcome, but gaps in reading and writing can widen difficulties. The aim isn’t to recreate school – just to keep skills ticking over in enjoyable ways.
Top tips:
- Listen to audiobooks on journeys
- Read signs, menus or maps during days out
- Mind‑map holiday plans
- Keep a simple journal with drawings, photos or short captions
- Play word or memory games
- Visit the local library
Everyday experiences can keep learning active without pressure.
4. Preparing for University: Build Confidence Early
For young adults heading to university, June and July are key preparation months. Independent study, long reading lists and new organisational demands can feel daunting.
Top tips:
- Apply early for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) – it takes around 14 weeks
- Explore assistive technology such as text‑to‑speech, mind‑mapping and digital note‑taking tools
- Consider a dyslexia assessment to provide the evidence needed for DSA and to help students understand their strengths and challenges.
Is It Time for a Dyslexia Assessment?
Transition periods often highlight ongoing challenges with reading, writing, organisation or processing. A dyslexia assessment can provide clarity, confidence and a clear plan for support -whether your child is moving up a year, starting secondary school, preparing for exams or heading to university.
Dyslexia First provides high‑quality dyslexia assessments for children and adults across the North West.
Founder Michala Morton has over 20 years’ experience in Special Educational Needs and works closely with The British Dyslexia Association and The Dyslexia Association.
Based in Newton‑le‑Willows, Merseyside, Dyslexia First is easily accessible by train, with direct links to Liverpool, Manchester and surrounding areas.
