Dyslexia is often misunderstood as simply “trouble with reading”, but it’s more than that. It’s a lifelong neurological difference which affects the way people process written and spoken language.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, many people with dyslexia benefit from multisensory approaches – these are treatment strategies which engage more than one sense at a time to support learning and brain development.
In this month’s blog, we look into the range of evidence-informed, multisensory interventions to support children and adults with dyslexia.
What is dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a learning difficulty which primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent word reading and spelling. It is not related to intelligence or vision problems, and it’s not something which a person “grows out of” – but with the right support, people with dyslexia can thrive [1].
Common symptoms of dyslexia include:
- Difficulty sounding out words
- Poor spelling
- Trouble remembering sequences (like the alphabet or days of the week)
- Avoidance of reading or writing tasks
- Slow reading or frequent re-reading
Who does dyslexia affect?
Dyslexia can affect anyone, regardless of background, IQ, or educational opportunity. It often runs in families and in many cases has a genetic component. In Australia, it’s estimated that around 10% of the population has dyslexia to some degree [2].
Brain imaging studies show that people with dyslexia will use different parts of the brain when reading compared to neurotypical readers [3].
Signs often appear in early childhood – especially when a child starts learning to read – but some people aren’t diagnosed until later in life.
How do you treat dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a lifelong condition, but it can be effectively managed with the right approach.
Treatment usually involves structured literacy programs to focus on phonics, reading fluency, and comprehension. These are often conducted by speech pathologists or specialised teachers.
At Neurofit Brain Centre, we take a multisensory approach, which means using techniques that engage more than one sense at a time to support learning and brain development. This approach is backed by research showing that combining sight, sound, and movement can help the brain form stronger neural connections [4].
The benefits of a multisensory approach to dyslexia
Multisensory treatments can help reinforce learning by engaging different parts of the brain simultaneously. For people with dyslexia, this can sometimes lead to better retention, improved reading fluency, and more confidence.
Examples of multisensory treatments
Electrical Stimulation Therapy (EST)
EST uses gentle electrical impulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in reading and language processing. It’s non-invasive, pain-free, and can help promote neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to adapt and form new pathways [5].
Research suggests that EST may help improve processing speed, attention, and working memory in children with learning difficulties [6].
Sound therapy
Sound therapy uses carefully designed audio sessions to train the brain to listen more effectively. This can improve auditory processing, which is often a challenge for individuals with dyslexia.
Video game-based training
It might sound surprising, but certain video games – especially those designed to improve cognitive skills – can help people with dyslexia. These games focus on strengthening working memory, visual tracking, and attention span.
One Australian study found specific video games could significantly improve reading skills in children with dyslexia when combined with other interventions [7].
By turning learning into an interactive and enjoyable activity, this form of therapy helps engage children who might otherwise avoid traditional literacy tasks.
Why multisensory works
The power of a multisensory approach lies in its ability to stimulate different areas of the brain at once. For people with dyslexia, this offers more opportunities to make connections, reinforce skills, and retain what they’ve learned. It also makes therapy more engaging and less frustrating – especially for children who have struggled with conventional teaching methods.
At Neurofit Brain Centre, we customise our multisensory programs based on each client’s individual needs and progress. Our goal is to build confidence, support brain development, and help every person reach their learning potential.
Working with Neurofit Brain Centre
Dyslexia can be challenging, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to stand in the way of learning or self-confidence.
Multisensory approaches offer an exciting, evidence-informed way to help the brain work around reading difficulties. If you’re looking for another approach to dyslexia support, we’re here to help. Contact our friendly team today to find out more.
Disclaimer
All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Neurofit Brain Centre can consult with you regarding your individual health needs.
References
- [1] International Dyslexia Association. (2021). Definition of Dyslexia. https://dyslexiaida.org/definition-of-dyslexia/
- [2] Learning Difficulties Australia. (2020). Understanding learning difficulties. https://ldaustralia.org/
- [3] Shaywitz, S. E., & Shaywitz, B. A. (2008). The science of reading and dyslexia. Educational Leadership, 66(6), 74–79.
- [4] Birsh, J. R., & Carreker, S. (2018). Multisensory teaching of basic language skills (4th ed.). Paul H. Brookes Publishing.
- [5] Koziol, L. F., & Budding, D. E. (2012). Neuroplasticity and the use of neurotechnology in clinical practice. Applied Neuropsychology: Child, 1(2), 105–112.
- [6] Johnson, J. M., et al. (2021). The role of non-invasive brain stimulation in childhood neurodevelopmental disorders. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 62(4), 412–428.
- [7] Franceschini, S., et al. (2013). Action video games make dyslexic children read better. Current Biology, 23(6), 462–466.
