They can’t have dyslexia!
Even though society has made huge strides in raising dyslexia awareness, it’s still common to hear someone say, “Oh, that person can’t have dyslexia, they’re so bright.”
October is Dyslexia Awareness Month
Each year, October is Dyslexia Awareness Month. Within the month, there is World Dyslexia Awareness Day, which in 2025 will be October 10th. There’s also Dyslexia Awareness Week, organised by the British Dyslexia Association, which in 2025 takes place between Monday, 6 October and Sunday, 12 October. The theme of this week is ‘Raising the Volume.’
Go Red for Dyslexia
Another campaign in October is Go Red for Dyslexia. The colour red is often associated with red pens used to cross out misspelt words. Go Red for Dyslexia seeks to transform the negative associations of red with errors and disapproval into a powerful symbol of the dyslexic community. Since 2019, Go Red for Dyslexia has encouraged people to turn anything and everything red. Whether it’s lighting up a building, wearing red clothing, or dying your hair, show your support with the colour red.
Raising awareness of dyslexia by lighting up a building with red lights
Why is Dyslexia Awareness Still an Issue?
Although we’ve made significant progress, myths persist. People still equate dyslexia with laziness or lack of intelligence, when in fact it’s a difference in how the brain processes language. Many bright, creative children remain undiagnosed or receive support far too late because their strengths mask their struggles. Early identification and evidence-based teaching are key, yet too many families are left to navigate the system alone.
In the Northern Hemisphere, October is at the beginning of the school year, yet after only a few weeks, students with dyslexia often feel like they can’t cope. To get some tips to help with back-to-school routines, check out my blog post 8 Tips to Help with Back to School.
Dyslexia Awareness Month matters. It’s not only about wearing red or sharing a post—it’s about challenging outdated beliefs, amplifying the voices of dyslexic children and adults, and ensuring schools have the training and resources they need.
Get Involved
As parents, you can make a real difference. Get involved in local events, talk with your child’s teacher, share accurate information online, and join campaigns like Go Red for Dyslexia. By participating, you’re not only supporting your own child but helping build a world where no student’s potential is underestimated.
This October, let’s “raise the volume” together—turning up the understanding, empathy, and action so that every dyslexic learner can thrive.
Let me know how you get on. I’d love to hear about your plans for Dyslexia Awareness Month.
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I taught my son to read and spell in 30 minutes a day. Here are my affiliate links to the resources I used: All About Spelling and All About Reading. Math resources are also now available.
If your child also struggles to learn the multiplication tables, check out this blog post about using stories to help them remember them.
