Fact Sheets
At Dyslexia Victoria Support, we understand how challenging it can be to find clear and trustworthy information. That’s why we’ve created our DVS Facts Sheets and included other important informative facts in short, plain-language guides covering key topics like audiobooks, advocacy, mental health, literacy support, school transitions, and legal rights. Each sheet is written with families in mind and grounded in evidence-based practice. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to fill in the gaps, our Facts Sheets are here to help.
This fact sheet helps parents choose reliable support for children with literacy difficulties. It warns against vague promises, confusing language, high costs, and lack of qualifications. It suggests asking questions about progress tracking, trial sessions, cancellation policies, and instructor credentials. The fact sheet also highlights the importance of clear websites, honest reviews, and proper accreditation. Parents are encouraged to contact Dyslexia Victoria Support or SPELD Victoria for advice if unsure.
Selecting a Specialist Tutor or Allied Health Professional for Specific Learning Difficulties (SLD).
This fact sheet from Dyslexia Victoria Support helps parents choose qualified tutors and allied health professionals for children with learning difficulties. It explains what credentials to look for, highlights the importance of clear pricing and transparency, and warns against vague promises or hidden fees. It also outlines where to report concerns about unethical practices.
This fact sheet offers tips to help dyslexic students transition to secondary school. It covers planning ahead, meeting with school staff, setting up learning plans, and using tools like visual schedules and assistive tech. It also highlights the importance of emotional support, self-advocacy, and building strong communication between home and school.
This fact sheet from the International Dyslexia Association explains what dyslexia is, how it affects reading and language, and the signs to look out for. It outlines how dyslexia is diagnosed, what effective support looks like, and the legal rights of individuals with dyslexia in education settings.
This resource gives practical advice to help parents support children who are feeling anxious or overwhelmed, particularly when school or learning difficulties are involved. It outlines simple strategies such as talking openly, encouraging hobbies, staying active, eating well, and getting enough sleep. It also explains when to seek help from professionals and how to work with schools and GPs. A short list of helplines and mental health services is included for extra support.
This resource outlines the benefits of audiobooks for students with reading difficulties. It includes research showing that listening can build vocabulary, improve comprehension, and support reading confidence. Audiobooks can be used alongside printed texts or on their own and are especially helpful for children with dyslexia. The document also lists recommended resources for parents and teachers.
This fact sheet explains that coloured overlays are not a proven way to help with dyslexia. Dyslexia is a language-based difficulty, not a vision problem, and overlays do not address the underlying issues. Some people may find them comforting, but this is often due to a placebo effect. Experts recommend using evidence-based strategies like explicit phonics and structured literacy instead. Early and targeted support is key.
This fact sheet by Lawyer Margaret Ryan explains that dyslexia is protected as a disability under Australian anti‑discrimination law. Schools must make “reasonable adjustments” to help dyslexic students participate in education on a level playing field. Examples include tailored course materials, adapted teaching approaches, specialised equipment, and support staff. Adjustments must balance the needs of the student with the school’s capabilities, including cost and practicality. Similar provisions also apply under Victoria’s Equal Opportunity Act.