How Assistive Technology & AI Empower Students with Dyslexia: A Guide for New Jersey Families
In today’s classrooms, technology isn’t just a tool—it’s a lifeline. For students with dyslexia, assistive technology (AT)and emerging artificial intelligence (AI) tools can dramatically improve reading, writing, organization, and confidence. If you’re exploring an Assistive Technology Evaluation in New Jersey, understanding what AT can do (and how it’s used) is the best first step.
Whether your child is in Monmouth County, Ocean County, or anywhere in New Jersey, the right AT tools can open the door to meaningful progress.
What Is Assistive Technology for Dyslexia?
Assistive technology includes any tool that helps a student access text, express ideas, and learn more independently—especially when traditional methods feel challenging.
Examples include:
Text-to-speech tools
Speech-to-text tools
Audiobooks
Word prediction software
Visual supports
Organizational apps
AI writing supports
An AT evaluation looks at which tools best support a child’s unique learning needs and how those tools can be integrated into home and school environments.
How AT Supports Students with Dyslexia
1. Text-to-Speech (TTS): Reading Support
TTS allows students to listen to text while following along visually. This supports:
Reading comprehension
Vocabulary growth
Access to grade-level materials
Reduced frustration and fatigue
For many students in New Jersey dyslexia evaluations, TTS becomes an essential long-term tool.
2. Speech-to-Text (Dictation): Writing Support
Students can speak their ideas instead of struggling through spelling or handwriting barriers.
This helps with:
Generating longer, more complex sentences
Getting ideas onto the page
Faster written responses
Increasing writing confidence
Dictation tools are often recommended during AT evaluations for students with dyslexia who have strong ideas but difficulty expressing them on paper.
3. Word Prediction & Spelling Support
Tools that predict the next word or correct spelling in real time reduce cognitive load.
Benefits include:
More fluent writing
Fewer spelling errors
Less time spent re-reading or fixing work
This is especially valuable for students who participate in structured literacy programs or receive New Jersey special education services.
4. Audiobooks & Accessible Text
Audiobooks (e.g., Learning Ally, Bookshare) give students access to literature they want to read—not just what they candecode.
This improves:
Motivation
Knowledge building
Classroom participation
Audiobooks are one of the most common recommendations from AT evaluations in Monmouth and Ocean County.
5. Organizational Tools & Executive Function Supports
Dyslexia can affect more than reading—many students also struggle with planning and organization.
Tools include:
Digital planners
Visual calendars
Task-management apps
Reminders and timers
This is often addressed during AT evaluations to support whole-child learning.
Where Does AI Fit In? The Newest Support for Dyslexia
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming how students access learning. When used responsibly, AI tools can support—not replace—strong literacy instruction.
AI Supports for Dyslexia Include:
1. AI Writing Assistants
These can help with:
Generating topic sentences
Expanding ideas
Re-phrasing unclear writing
Checking grammar and structure
AI should never replace explicit writing instruction, but it can help students write more independently.
2. AI Reading Companions
AI tools can read text, define unfamiliar words, summarize chapters, and create comprehension questions—all customized to your child’s level.
This helps students in New Jersey classrooms stay engaged even when decoding is difficult.
3. AI Note-Taking Support
Tools can summarize lectures, extract key points, and help students organize information—ideal for middle and high schoolers with dyslexia.
4. AI-Based Accessibility Features
Many modern platforms now include:
Live captioning
Instant translation
Automatic text simplification
These features enhance access to grade-level content during both classroom learning and homework.
What Happens During an Assistive Technology Evaluation?
A high-quality AT evaluation in New Jersey (including Monmouth County and Ocean County school districts) typically includes:
Review of strengths and needs
Classroom observation
Trials of multiple AT tools
Recommendations for specific devices, apps, and supports
Training for students, families, and teachers
The goal is to create a personalized Assistive Technology Implementation Plan, ensuring your child knows how to use each tool effectively.
Why AT + AI Matters for Dyslexia
When students with dyslexia are given the right supports, they can:
Access grade-level material
Reduce frustration
Participate more independently in class
Show what they know
Build confidence
Improve reading and writing outcomes
AT doesn’t change a child’s learning profile—it unlocks the full potential that has always been there.
Looking for an Assistive Technology Evaluation in Monmouth or Ocean County, NJ?
If you believe your child may benefit from AT or AI supports, I offer comprehensive Assistive Technology Evaluations for dyslexia and language-based learning disabilities throughout:
Monmouth County
Ocean County
Central New Jersey
These evaluations help identify the best tools, apps, and supports to help your child thrive at school and at home.
📩 Reach out anytime to learn more, schedule an evaluation, or ask questions. I’m here to help your child access learning with confidence.