by dragana.maksimovic -

The Power of Visual Aids in Enhancing Learning in Schools

Like I mentioned in my previous blog post, visual aids can be a very powerful and important tool in helping children with cognitive disabilities to overcome struggles in school and every-day life. In this blog post I will explore different types of visual aids and their benefits.

Visual aids encompass a wide range of tools including visual schedules, picture cards, emotion charts, and other non-verbal communication methods. These tools help children understand their daily activities, transitions, and expectations, thereby reducing anxiety and resistance. Visual schedules, for example, can include illustrations, photographs, words, or videos outlining a series of tasks or events.

Visual aids are particularly beneficial for autistic children, who often process information better visually than verbally. These aids help in reducing stress associated with unplanned changes and enhance their ability to communicate and interact with their surroundings.

Benefits of Visual Aids for Children:

Routine and Predictability – Visual aids help children establish and follow routines, reducing anxiety associated with unpredictability. A well-structured schedule showing tasks such as waking up, brushing teeth, and packing a school bag can give children a sense of control and stability.

Smooth Transitions – Knowing what comes next helps children transition more easily between activities. This is particularly beneficial in a classroom setting where transitions occur frequently.

Enhanced Independence – Visual aids can empower children by giving them the tools to understand and manage their tasks independently. This fosters a sense of responsibility and self-reliance.

Reduced Negotiations – With a visual schedule in place, children can see what is expected of them, reducing the need for verbal negotiations and repeated instructions.

Improved Communication – For non-verbal children or those who struggle with verbal communication, tools like the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) provide a way to express needs and preferences effectively.

References:

https://littlefeettherapy.com/why-are-visual-schedules-helpful-for-children

https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/benefits-of-autism-visual-supports

https://theeducationhub.org.nz/supporting-autistic-children-using-a-visual-scheduling-tool

by dragana.maksimovic -

Challenges of traditional learning environments

To better understand how to approach my idea next, I wanted to look closer into what challenges children with cognitive disabilities face and which methods could be used to create a more inclusive and supportive environment.

When asked which struggles they encountered while in school, people with autism and ADHD gave some of the most common challenges:

  • Difficulty with Social Interaction – Struggling to understand social cues and engage in typical social interactions, as well as working in groups and speaking in front of people
  • Difficulty Processing Information – Finding it hard to focus on tasks, getting easily distracted and needing time to process new information
  • Communication Difficulties – Being misunderstood, seen as rude when using blunt language which often leads to feeling overwhelmed and anxious
  • Sensory Challenges – Sensory overwhelm from loud noises, lights and bigger crowds
  • Rules, Routines, and Expectations – Often not understanding instructions or expectations, as well as having trouble understanding inconsistent rules and changing routines

There are many ways in which these issues can be addresses. After doing some research I found a couple of suggestions that could help children with cognitive disabilities, while also keeping the learning environment motivating for all other children:

  • Using Concrete Language and Visual Aids –Clear, concise instructions and visual aids can help autistic children understand what is expected of them. Demonstrations and visual schedules can provide the structure they need to succeed
  • Step-by-step instruction –Breaking down lessons into sequential steps allows students to grasp each component before moving on to the next. This approach reduces confusion and builds a solid foundation of understanding.
  • Repeated practice and reinforcement – Providing opportunities for students to practice and reinforce their skills ensures mastery and retention of concepts.
  • Sensory Accommodation – Identify sensory triggers and find ways to reduce them. This might include providing noise-canceling headphones, creating a quiet corner in the classroom, or using dim lighting to create a calmer environment.
  • Consistent, Calm Communication – Use a steady, calm tone of voice when addressing children, especially when giving feedback. They can be sensitive to changes in tone, which can affect their understanding and response.

References:

https://lighthouseautismcenter.com/blog/why-autistic-children-have-difficulty-learning-regular-classroom

https://www.authenticallyemily.uk/blog/challenges-autistic-and-adhd-children-face-at-school-and-what-can-help

https://www.autismconnect.com/blogs/challenges-faced-by-kids-with-autism-in-classrooms

by dragana.maksimovic -

Prototype idea: The Interactive Learning Table

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the integration of technology into classrooms has opened new doors for enhancing learning experiences. Yet, the challenge remains to create environments that cater to the diverse needs of all students, particularly those with cognitive disabilities such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. When reviewing and combining all of my research so far, I came up with an idea of the Interactive Learning Table, a prototype designed to make education more inclusive, engaging, and effective for every child.

Imagine a classroom where each student has access to a desk that not only serves as a traditional workspace but also transforms into an interactive, multi-sensory learning tool. The Interactive Learning Table merges tactile learning methods with cutting-edge technology, providing a dynamic educational experience tailored to individual learning styles.

Storyboard:

Key Features

1. Adjustable Touch Screen

   – At the center of the table is a touch screen that can lie flat or be adjusted to an upright position like a laptop.

   – This screen serves as a versatile guide for various activities, from displaying visual aids to facilitating interactive lessons.

2. Interactive Surface

   – The table looks like a regular school desk but features an interactive surface inspired by the Reactable technology.

   – This surface allows for tactile learning methods and games, encouraging hands-on interaction that can reinforce concepts through play and exploration.

3. Support for Different Learning Styles

   – Visual Learners: The touch screen offers visual options that complement lectures and tasks with guides, diagrams, and animations.

   – Auditory Learners: For children who struggle with reading, a text-to-speech feature highlights text as it is read aloud, providing visual feedback that enhances comprehension.

   – Kinesthetic Learners: The tactile surface supports hands-on activities, allowing students to manipulate objects and engage physically with the learning material.

Inclusive Benefits

1. Personalized Learning

   – Each table can be customized to suit the learning preferences and needs of individual students, making lessons more accessible and engaging.

   – Teachers can create personalized learning plans that leverage the interactive features to support children with cognitive disabilities.

2. Enhanced Engagement

   – The interactive elements make learning fun and interactive, keeping students engaged and motivated.

   – By incorporating games and tactile activities, the tables turn learning into an adventure, fostering a love for discovery and knowledge.

3. Support for Cognitive Disabilities

   – The tables provide essential support for students with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, who often face challenges with traditional educational methods.

   – Features like visual aids, text-to-speech, and interactive games help bridge gaps in understanding and retention, making education more accessible.

Implementation in Classrooms

The vision for the Interactive Learning Table is to have one available for every child in a classroom, ensuring an inclusive learning environment where no student is left behind. Teachers can seamlessly integrate these tables into their lesson plans, using them to complement traditional teaching methods while providing additional support where needed.

1. Teacher Training

   – Educators would receive training on how to effectively use the Interactive Learning Tables, including how to customize settings and activities for individual students.

   – Ongoing professional development would ensure that teachers stay up-to-date with the latest educational technologies and strategies.

2. Curriculum Integration

   – The tables can be programmed with a variety of educational apps and software aligned with the curriculum, covering subjects from math and science to language arts and social studies.

   – Teachers can access a library of resources and activities designed specifically for the tables, making lesson planning easier and more effective.

3. Feedback and Adaptation

   – The tables would collect data on student interactions and progress, providing valuable insights for teachers to tailor instruction further.

   – Regular updates and feedback loops would allow for continuous improvement of the tables‘ features and educational content.

by dragana.maksimovic -

Όλοι: music making to scaffold social playful activities and self-regulation

Within the field of inclusive design, innovative technologies are beginning to appear that are intended to meet the specific needs of various user groups. Presenting „Olly“ – a melodic textile tangible user interface (TUI) designed with autism spectrum children’s requirements in mind. Through play, Olly aims to promote social relationships and sensory modulation, drawing on her observations from working with a group of five kids who all have a strong love for music.

Olly’s physical form is an embodiment of accessibility and inclusivity. Olly provides a sensory-rich experience since it is made of soft, tactile materials and has elastic ribbons with analog sensors integrated in them. Children are free to create music by themselves or while collaborating with others, as each ribbon stands for a different musical instrument.

Olly’s interactive feature has been carefully designed to take into account the sensory needs and social dynamics that are common in youngsters on the autistic spectrum. When in solitary mode, kids can play with individual ribbons to discover songs they like. But the real magic happens when you use more than one ribbon at once, as this produces even more complex harmonies. This thoughtful design decision encourages cooperative play while simultaneously acting as a sensory-based self-regulation tool.

During a five-week testing period at a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school, Olly’s effectiveness was closely monitored, and the results were incredibly encouraging. The happiness of children, demonstrated by their smiles, singing, and prolonged eye contact, is evidence that Olly is successful in encouraging social interaction and sensory control. Teachers praised the interface for being inclusive and having the ability to create a warm, friendly, and accessible space for every child. Teachers‘ and teaching assistants‘ comments emphasized Olly’s significant influence on participants‘ experiences and its critical function in promoting happy and cooperative music-making sessions.

While Olly is a positive step in the direction of using technology to support autistic children, there are certain issues that need to be closely examined. It’s possible that the findings may be limited by the short duration of the trial and the small size of the group testing the sample. Moreover, while the results are encouraging, more research is needed to determine the long-term effects of Olly on the development of social skills and sensory modulation in a variety of circumstances.

Olly is proof of the incredible impact that inclusive design can have in improving the lives of kids with autism. Through the combination of music, touch interaction, and social play, Olly breaks down traditional barriers to provide its users with a peaceful and uplifting experience. As we keep looking into the relationship between technology and inclusion, projects like Olly are signs of innovation that point the way toward a more compassionate and empathetic future.

by dragana.maksimovic -

Changing the learning environment with sensory rooms

Sensory rooms have become a common and valuable addition to schools, hospitals, and community centers, offering a controlled environment with sensory-focused equipment. These spaces are designed to cater to individuals with learning difficulties, providing tailored sensory experiences. In this blog post, we explore the purposes, benefits, and research surrounding sensory rooms, shedding light on their role in supporting children with learning difficulties in classrooms.

Sensory rooms serve multiple purposes, acting as self-organization spaces, calming areas, and skill training centers. They are inclusive environments where students of all ages and abilities can explore together. The well-designed structure of these rooms allows for the control and monitoring of sensory experiences, addressing challenges such as overstimulation and stress. Moreover, sensory rooms play a crucial role in sensory integration therapy.

These rooms are not limited to students alone; they also benefit facilitators, teachers, parents, caregivers, and therapists. Individuals with multiple disabilities, often experiencing sensory impairments, find relief in sensory rooms by controlling sensory input, eliminating distractions, and helping them make sense of their external environment.

Ongoing research on sensory rooms has demonstrated their effectiveness in reducing and managing stress and aggression. Therapists utilize these rooms for reflective learning during critical incident debriefing, and they have shown success in reducing stereotyped behaviors in adolescents and adults. Additionally, the use of sensory rooms has been linked to increased attention and focus.

Common components of sensory rooms include bubble tubes, fiber optic sprays, beanbag chairs, interactive wall boards, rocking chairs, stereo or MP3 players with headphones, therapy balls, lighting/projectors with various colors and patterns, weighted blankets or lap pads, flowing water fountains, bins with assorted sensory activities, and aromatherapy diffuser kits. Bubble tubes, a prevalent component, provide visual and calming sensory stimulation. They serve as a focal point for attention, aiding in reflective learning and meeting individualized education program (IEP) goals. Projectors in sensory rooms transform spaces, offering scenario-driven environments that enrich multiple senses, promoting engagement and inspiration.

Before designing a sensory room, considerations should include the individual needs of the users, the number of individuals using the room simultaneously, its intended use, and long-term adaptability. Adequate space, proper layout, and attention to details like floor coverings and equipment placement are essential. Staff training is crucial to ensuring a well-utilized and effective sensory room. Schools, especially mainstream ones, can be noisy and overwhelming. Sensory rooms provide a practical solution by offering calming and safe spaces for pupils with autism and special educational needs. These rooms serve various purposes, including acting as therapeutic environments, aiding in physical skill development, and providing spaces for emotional regulation and learning management.

Children on the autism spectrum, those with learning difficulties, developmental delays, sensory impairments, and behavioral issues all stand to gain from the presence of sensory rooms in schools. These spaces cater to diverse learning styles and offer an inclusive, positive learning experience.

The term Special Educational Needs (SEN) encompasses individuals requiring additional support in a learning environment. While mainstream schools accommodate 82% of pupils with SEN, the need for dedicated support resources, including sensory rooms, remains evident. Sensory-friendly environments, such as multi-sensory rooms, immersive sensory rooms, and portable sensory rooms, provide effective tools for supporting children with diverse needs within mainstream schools.

Sensory rooms contribute significantly to the development of confidence, independence, and social skills. They offer an escape from classroom stress, can be incorporated into the learning curriculum, create positive learning experiences, and improve sensory processing.

References and relevant links:

https://nationalautismresources.com/school-sensory-rooms/

https://www.vertisbuildings.com/blog/sensory-rooms-schools

https://www.senteq.co.uk/sensory-rooms-in-mainstream-schools/

by dragana.maksimovic -

Can EEG technology shape the future of education?

From the early days of childhood to the challenges of formal education, the brain undergoes dynamic changes. Scientists and educators at Synapse School and Stanford University are joining forces to study how schooling influences brain development, aiming to gain insights that can revolutionize the learning experience. The Brainwave Learning Center, equipped with an EEG laboratory, plays a pivotal role in this journey, providing a unique tool for students to actively engage with the science of learning.

At the Synapse School in Menlo Park, California, students have the opportunity to visit the Brainwave Learning Center—a hub where neuroscience and education converge. Equipped with stretchy caps featuring over a hundred sensors, students engage in educational games and guided meditation while their brain waves are measured in real-time. This interactive experience not only allows children to witness their brain activity but also fosters a sense of ownership and understanding of their own learning process.

Recent advances in neuroimaging technologies, such as MRI and wearable brain-wave sensors, provide unprecedented insights into the developing brain circuits of reading, math, and attention. Large-scale studies, involving thousands of schoolchildren, offer a comprehensive understanding of neurodiversity and how it correlates with educational achievements, home environments, and extracurricular activities.

EEG technology has enabled researchers to explore how specific learning experiences drive changes in brain function and structure. Studies, including MRI imaging of struggling readers undergoing intensive tutoring, have demonstrated the remarkable plasticity of the brain in response to targeted educational interventions. These findings challenge traditional notions of learning disabilities and emphasize the crucial role of tailored educational support in shaping both the mind and brain. Teachers play a central role in guiding students‘ learning experiences. A study involving artificial symbol learning revealed that teachers‘ instructional choices can influence the brain circuits associated with word recognition. This emphasizes the significance of effective teaching methods in directing learning and impacting the changing landscape of brain circuits.

“Kids come to us ready to learn. The question is do we feed that desire to learn by nurturing curiosity and giving them experiences that encourage them to see the value and the power of learning? That’s what we should be doing. That’s what we should be focused on.” – Pedro Noguera, professor of education at UCLA

Synapse School’s partnership with Stanford University extends beyond traditional academic subjects, delving into social-emotional learning, mindfulness practices, empathy, creativity, self-control, and problem-solving. The continuity between the neuroscience lab and the school environment allows researchers to explore how these factors influence brain circuits involved in human development.

As students progress from kindergarten to middle school, the BLC continues to trace their brain circuits‘ development through repeated EEG measurements. The combination of brain measures with behavioral assessments aims to provide insights into individual strengths and vulnerabilities, guiding the development of targeted instructional approaches.

References and relevant links:

https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/trend/archive/spring-2020/putting-neuroscience-in-the-classroom-how-the-brain-changes-as-we-learn

https://www.synapseschool.org/innovation/blc

https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2019/11/01/the-future-of-learning-the-evolving-classroom

by dragana.maksimovic -

Assistive technology for ADHD

Living with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can present challenges, particularly when it comes to staying focused and organized. Fortunately, the digital age has brought forth a plethora of assistive technologies aimed at helping individuals with ADHD manage their tasks and improve concentration. In this guide, we explore a variety of apps, gadgets, and tools designed to enhance the learning experience and boost productivity for ADHD students, both in the classroom and at home.

1. Apps for Focus and Organization

In the world of assistive technology, there truly is an app for almost everything. Whether it’s creating to-do lists, setting reminders, or engaging in exercises to control ADHD symptoms, apps can be powerful tools. Friendship Circle, Understood.org, and ADDitude magazine offer curated lists of apps tailored to address attention and learning issues. Utilizing features such as calendar reminders, alarms, and photo annotations can further enhance organizational skills.

2. Hardware, Software, and Video Games

Hardware and software solutions also play a crucial role in assisting ADHD students. Livescribe, for example, combines the convenience of a pen with digital capabilities, allowing handwritten notes to be sent to smartphones. Gadgets and software recommended by experts like Dr. Marshall Raskind and Kristin Stanberry offer subject-specific support in areas such as math, reading, and writing.

Video games, often frowned upon, can be turned into allies. Games that require flexible thinking, memory, and planning can help ADHD students improve their focus. NASA-developed educational software, listed on the ADD/ADHD Support Site, originated from studies to keep pilots alert during long flights.

3. Task Timers and White Noise

Task timers, such as Focus Booster and MotivAider, assist students in managing distractions and learning time management skills. These tools gently remind students to pay attention or switch tasks. The Time Timer, available as an app or a physical clock, visually represents the passage of time, aiding children, in particular, with completing tasks or taking breaks.

White noise, a proven aid for focus, can be incorporated into a student’s routine using apps like White Noise or noise-canceling headphones. Research even suggests that white noise in the classroom can be as effective as medication in helping students with ADHD learn.

4. Cloud Storage for Organization

Cloud storage, offered by platforms like Google Drive and Dropbox, helps students with ADHD stay organized by preventing the loss of important assignments. Saving documents to the cloud ensures accessibility from various locations, reducing the risk of misplacement.

The vast array of assistive technologies available today offers hope and support for individuals with ADHD. By integrating these tools into daily routines, ADHD students can not only cope with challenges but also thrive academically and personally. Embracing technology as an ally, we pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.

References and relevant links:

https://disabilitycreditcanada.com/10-best-assistive-technologies-add-adhd/

https://study.com/blog/how-technology-can-help-your-adhd-student-stay-focused.html

https://www.additudemag.com/assistive-technology-education-applications-adhd-students/

https://us.livescribe.com/

by dragana.maksimovic -

Educational tools and strategies for students with ADHD

Before diving into specific tools and strategies, let’s briefly outline the common characteristics of students with ADHD:

– Impatience and impulsivity

– Difficulty sitting still

– Disruption during instruction

– Easy distractibility

– Forgetfulness and loss of personal items

– Avoidance of tasks and homework

School-Based Strategies:

1. Behavioral Classroom Management:

   – A teacher-led approach that promotes positive behaviors through reward systems.

   – Shown to increase academic engagement across various age groups.

2. Organizational Training:

   – Teaches time management, planning skills, and organizational strategies to optimize learning.

   – Effective for children and adolescents, promoting better focus and reduced distractions.

3. Special Education Services and Accommodations:

   – Governed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

   – Offers individualized education programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans with accommodations tailored to the child’s needs.

4. Teacher Involvement:

   – Communication strategies for teachers, including frequent positive feedback, sensitivity to emotional challenges, and providing extra warnings.

   – Tailoring assignments, offering choices, and minimizing distractions in the classroom.

5. Parent Education and Support:

   – Guidance for parents on understanding ADHD, advocating for their child, and actively participating in the development of IEP or 504 Plans.

   – Encouragement to maintain a good working relationship with the school while advocating for their child’s needs.

ADHD Tools for the Classroom:

1. Fidget Tools:

   – Stress balls, silly putty, and chewable necklaces channel energy in a positive way.

   – Benefits: Discreet and effective, supports sensory needs.

2. Alternative Seating Options:

   – Swivel chairs, wobble chairs, disk seats, standing desks, and swinging footrests offer alternative choices.

   – Benefits: Varied options for individual preferences, promotes engagement.

3. Assistive Learning Tools:

   – Reading, Math, Writing, and Organizational Tools provide tailored support for ADHD students.

   – Benefits: Addresses individual learning challenges, promotes engagement.

Strategies for Managing ADHD Symptoms:

1. Classroom Environment Modifications:

   – Structuring the classroom to reduce distractions and providing designated movement areas.

   – Benefits: Minimizes distractions, supports diverse learning styles.

2. Concrete Methods for Classroom Management:

   – Clear, concise instructions, immediate consequences for rule-breaking, and structured activities.

   – Benefits: Creates a predictable and supportive learning environment.

3. Collaboration with School Staff and Parents:

   – Regular team meetings involving parents, teachers, counselors, and special education professionals.

   – Benefits: Holistic support, consistent strategies at home and school.

Empowering ADHD learners involves a combination of school-based strategies, assistive technologies, and collaboration with educators and parents. By understanding the unique needs of students with ADHD and implementing tailored tools and strategies, we can create an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

References and relevant links:

https://manikapant18.medium.com/5-free-edtech-tools-to-better-engage-adhd-students-54cbdca8cd44

https://colleamoi.com/blogue/adhd-classroom-tools/?lang=en

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/school-success.html

https://disabilitycreditcanada.com/10-best-assistive-technologies-add-adhd/

by dragana.maksimovic -

Understanding ADHD and its impact on children’s education

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a prevalent neurodevelopmental condition impacting millions of children worldwide. Recognizing its characteristics is essential for educators to provide effective support in the academic journey of students with ADHD. In this comprehensive blog post, we will explore what ADHD is, delve into the challenges it poses for children’s education, and discuss strategies, support systems, and assistive technologies that can make a positive impact.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurological condition characterized by a short attention span, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. As of 2024, around 7.2% of children under the age of 18 globally have been diagnosed with ADHD. Students with ADHD can exhibit both hyperactive and inattentive traits, leading to impatience, difficulty sitting still, disruptions in instruction, easy distraction, forgetfulness, and task avoidance. These traits significantly impact a student’s capacity to learn, develop social skills, and engage in academic environments, potentially resulting in educational disparities and an increased risk of dropping out of high school.

Understanding ADHD in the Classroom:

Children with ADHD encounter obstacles in traditional learning environments. Schools employ strategies like behavioral classroom management and organizational training to address these challenges. Behavioral classroom management focuses on positive reinforcement, while organizational training helps children develop time management and planning skills. Unfortunately, only about one in three children with ADHD receives behavioral classroom management, highlighting the need for increased awareness and implementation.

What Teachers Can Do To Help:

Teachers play a crucial role in helping children with ADHD succeed. Effective communication, clear assignment instructions, and flexibility in learning approaches are key. Providing choices for assignments, minimizing distractions, and incorporating organizational tools contribute to a more supportive classroom environment. Collaborating with parents and involving school counselors or psychologists enhances the overall support structure for children with ADHD. In addition to classroom strategies and support systems, assistive technologies can empower children with ADHD to manage their tasks more effectively.

Understanding ADHD and implementing effective strategies, support systems, and assistive technologies can make a significant difference in the educational experiences of students with ADHD. By creating inclusive classrooms, leveraging technology, modifying learning environments, and collaborating with school staff, educators can provide the necessary support for these students to achieve their full potential. It’s crucial to foster empathy, dispel stigmas, and celebrate every step of progress along the way. Together, parents, teachers, and healthcare providers can work collaboratively to ensure children with ADHD receive the tailored support needed for success in the classroom and beyond.

References and relevant links:

https://manikapant18.medium.com/5-free-edtech-tools-to-better-engage-adhd-students-54cbdca8cd44

https://colleamoi.com/blogue/adhd-classroom-tools/?lang=en

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/school-success.html

https://disabilitycreditcanada.com/10-best-assistive-technologies-add-adhd/

by dragana.maksimovic -

Fonts designed for dyslexia

“Every child and adult should be able to realize their reading potential. By dedicating our resources towards awareness and considering different and complex studies on Dyslexia, we’re always evolving to make the user-friendly font accessible in today’s digital and print landscape.” – Christian Boer

Fonts designed for dyslexia aim to improve readability and reduce visual stress for people with dyslexia. These fonts typically incorporate specific features to enhance the reading experience for dyslexic readers. To design the dyslexia-friendly typeface, all typography rules and standards were ignored. Here are some common characteristics of dyslexia-friendly fonts:

1. Open and unique Letterforms: Dyslexia-friendly fonts often feature open letterforms to make it easier to distinguish between letters. This means that letters have distinct shapes and are less likely to be confused with one another such as „b“ and „d“.

2. Increased Letter Spacing: Wider letter spacing prevents letters from merging into one another, reducing the chances of misreading.

3. Weight Variation: Some dyslexia-friendly fonts use variations in stroke thickness to make letters more distinct.

4. Clear Descenders and Ascenders: Descenders (the parts of letters that extend below the baseline, such as in ‚g‘ or ‚y‘) and ascenders (the parts that extend above the x-height, such as in ‚h‘ or ‚b‘) are often more prominent in dyslexia-friendly fonts, making it easier to differentiate between letters.

Several fonts have been designed specifically for people with dyslexia over the years, and some of them are:

– Dyslexie: Developed by Christian Boer, Dyslexie is a typeface that incorporates many of the aforementioned features. It has gained popularity for its efforts to enhance readability for dyslexic readers.

– OpenDyslexic: This font is open-source and freely available. It emphasizes distinct letter shapes and increased letter spacing to improve reading for individuals with dyslexia.

– Lexie Readable: Lexie Readable is a font designed by Lexie Dyslexia Institute. It focuses on clarity and simplicity, with open letterforms and increased spacing.

San serif fonts are also a great way to help someone who has dyslexia. San serif fonts create more visual separation between the letters which helps readers read and comprehend texts more easily. Here are some standard san serif fonts that would be good options when designing for people with dyslexia:

  • Helvetica
  • Verdana
  • Arial
  • Century Gothic
  • Tahoma
  • Trebuchet

There is no hard research that proves that fonts designed for dyslexia improve reading speed. However, a master thesis by Renske de Leeuw of the University of Twente found that fonts like Dyslexie had an overall reduction in reading errors.

It’s important to note that while these fonts may be helpful for some individuals with dyslexia, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different people may find different fonts more or less helpful based on their individual needs and preferences. Additionally, other factors such as background color, text size, and line spacing can also influence readability for individuals with dyslexia.

References and relevant links:

https://dyslexiefont.com/en/typeface/?_ga=2.246587012.1697522350.1702816263-1541481720.1702816263

https://medium.com/codex/accessibility-fonts-and-dyslexia-3cc495795127

https://www.dyslexia-reading-well.com/dyslexia-font.html

https://www.k-type.com/fonts/lexie-readable/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PwuMhDNi1_w&ab_channel=Seeker