Guides for parents and carers

Scanning Pens provides a range of guidance to help parents and carers support children with dyslexia and reading challenges at home and in school.

1. Understand how reading support works

A key part of supporting your child is understanding the tools available.
Scanning Pens explain that reading pens:

• Scan text and read it aloud instantly
• Help children decode difficult words
• Improve reading comprehension and confidence

This allows children to access text more easily without constant adult support.

2. Encourage independence at home and school

Guidance focuses on helping children become independent learners:

• Let your child use assistive tools themselves
• Encourage practice with reading in everyday situations (homework, books, instructions)
• Reduce reliance on others to read for them

This builds confidence and helps children feel more in control of their learning

3. Use assistive technology consistently

Parents are encouraged to:

• Support regular use of tools like C‑Pens at home
• Reinforce the same support strategies used in school

Consistency helps make support part of the child’s “normal way of working”, which is important for both progress and exams.

4. Create a supportive reading environment

Scanning Pens promotes making reading:

• Accessible and low‑stress
• Free from pressure or embarrassment
• Supported by tools that make reading easier

When children feel supported, they are more likely to engage and enjoy reading.

5. Work closely with schools

Parents and carers should:

• Speak with teachers or the SENCo about support options
• Ensure strategies used at home align with school support
• Explore funding routes or access arrangements where needed

A joined-up approach ensures the best outcomes for the learner.

6. Encourage confidence and celebrate progress

• Focus on small wins and improvements
• Avoid comparing with peers
• Build a positive mindset around reading

Confidence plays a major role in long-term success with dyslexia.

7. Use a “toolbox” approach

Scanning Pens recommends a “Toolbox Approach”, where children have access to a range of support tools:

• Assistive technology (e.g. reading pens)
• Classroom strategies and resources
• Flexible ways to access learning

This approach:

• Makes support available to all learners
• Reduces stigma
• Helps children feel comfortable using what they need

Key takeaway

For parents and carers, the best support comes from:

• Understanding and using assistive tools
• Encouraging independence and confidence
• Working closely with schools
• Creating a consistent, supportive environment

Together, these approaches help children with dyslexia access learning, build confidence, and thrive.