When my two children were recently diagnosed with dyslexia, I felt both relief and overwhelm. Relief—because I finally had an explanation for why certain subjects seemed like an uphill battle. Overwhelm—because I suddenly had to figure out how to teach them differently.
Everything made sense.
The tears. The meltdowns. The “I hate reading.” The guessing. The headaches.
And worst of all — the slow fading of their confidence.
My kids are bright — truly brilliant in so many ways — but the traditional approach had convinced them otherwise. They weren’t lazy or behind. They simply learn differently.
That’s when I knew:
If I was going to homeschool them well, I needed to find a homeschool curriculum for dyslexia — not just a standard curriculum with extra patience applied. Luckily, I had been slowly finding dyslexia friendly curriculums, so we didn’t need to change much!
What I discovered is this:
Dyslexic kids don’t need more of the same — they need a different way altogether.
Below is the honest breakdown of the best homeschool curriculum for dyslexia that helped us move from frustration to progress, organized by subject. I also included some loved by reading professionals and other homeschooling parents of children with dyslexia.
If your child is frustrated and losing confidence like mine were, I hope this makes your road a little smoother.
Reading & Spelling Curriculum for Dyslexia
All About Reading + All About Spelling
Why it works: Based on Orton-Gillingham principles, it’s multi-sensory and step-by-step. Kids see it, hear it, move it, and say it. Constant review ensures no gaps.
Cost: About $150 per level for reading, $50 per level for spelling (easy to find second hand)
Parent Involvement: High — you guide the lessons, but the scripts make it manageable
👉 All About Reading is what finally clicked for my eldest. No more tears and frustrations. My severely dyslexic son flew through it. Now I know why! It was a perfect fit, even before I knew he needed it.
Reading Horizons
Why it works: Excellent for tutoring or filling in gaps. It’s structured like professional intervention, helping dyslexic learners who need extra support to build foundational phonics skills.
Cost: Varies by program (online or at-home kits)- Check here for deals
Parent Involvement: Moderate — great for 1:1 support
👉 This is what both of my boys are currently using for their tutoring. Dyslexia tutoring can be costly, especially for two children. This was recommended by our Reading Specialist and they have been enjoying it.
Barton Reading & Spelling
Why it works: Fills every gap with structured lessons. Often described as a home-based alternative to professional dyslexia tutoring.
Cost: $300–$400 per level
Parent Involvement: High — pre-scripted lessons remove guesswork
👉 Our reading specialist is trained in the Barton method and highly recommends this. Unfortunately, it is very costly.
Nessy (Online)
Why it works: Feels like a game rather than a lesson. Perfect for kids who shut down with workbooks.
Cost: $12/month per child- Check here for deals
Parent Involvement: Low to moderate — mostly independent
My severly dyslexic son just completed the Writing Beach program. He really enjoyed it. Definitely for the younger crowd.
Logic of English
Why it works: Explains the rules behind English rather than relying on memorization. Multi-sensory and highly adaptable.
Cost: $200–$250
Parent Involvement: Moderate to high
👉 I know several parents who prefer this to All About Reading. I thought it was worth mentioning.
Sequential Spelling
Why it works:
Sequential Spelling is pattern-based rather than rule-based, making it ideal for dyslexic learners who struggle with memorizing phonics rules. Instead of random word lists, students build families of words over time (like in, pin, spin, spinning). This approach helps kids see spelling connections and retain words through daily consistency rather than rote drilling.
Cost:
- Around $25–$30 per level (teacher guide or student workbooks, depending on format chosen)
- Digital/app options are available as well
Parent Involvement:
- Low to Moderate — Often done as oral spelling, so it works well for kids who struggle with writing
👉 We used this several times over the years. It was actually created by a gentleman with dyslexia himself. We just prefer All About Spelling, but it is still a good option. However; I am not a fan of the DVDs or Online version.
Explode the Code
Why it works:
Explode the Code is a simple, no-frills phonics workbook series that’s widely used for dyslexic learners. The repetitive format and black-and-white layout reduce distractions, while short lessons help with focus. It’s excellent for reinforcing specific sounds and building confidence in early or struggling readers.
Cost:
- About $9–$12 per workbook
- Teacher guides optional
Parent Involvement:
- Low — Students can often work independently or with light supervision
👉 This is a wonderful supplement. It really helps solidify those phonics spelling and reading concepts. It also gives struggling learners some independence, even in the younger years.
Writing Curriculum for Dyslexia
Just Write
Why it works: Structured but less intimidating than traditional programs, making it approachable for reluctant or overwhelmed writers. Lessons focus on building strong sentences and paragraphs without punishing kids for spelling struggles.
Cost: $12 depending on level (Check for second hand as well)
Parent Involvement: Moderate — guided but flexible
👉 I have used this for both of my boys so far. My eldest was the more overwhelmed with writing and he thrived with Just Write.
Jump In
Why it works:
Jump In is a gentle, incremental writing program designed specifically for middle school students, including those with dyslexia. Its bite-sized lessons and informal, friendly tone make writing approachable and less intimidating. The curriculum emphasizes short, manageable assignments, allowing students to build confidence without feeling overwhelmed. It’s particularly beneficial for reluctant writers or those needing a more structured and supportive approach.
Cost:
Approximately $39.95 for the student workbook and $19.95 for the teacher’s guide.
Parent Involvement:
Moderate — the program is designed for independent student use, with the teacher’s guide offering additional support and guidance.
👉 Even though Just Write and Jump In are not by the same people, my eldest went from one to the next seemlessly. He has really enjoyed it and it truly is broken down so children with dyslexia can understand it. Check out my flip through here!
Grammar Curriculum for Dyslexia
Winston Grammar
Why it works: Hands-on, visual (with cards), and concise — perfect for kids who get overwhelmed with worksheets. Teaches grammar in short, memorable steps.
Cost: ~$40 per level (Check for second hand)
Parent Involvement: Moderate — mostly guiding, with hands-on activities
👉 We absolutely love Winston Grammar. While my son is currently using Fix It Grammar, I have not seen any grammar work as well as Winston had, even for a child who was struggling to grasp and remember concepts.
History Curriculum for Dyslexia
Story of the World (with Audiobook)
Why it works: Told as a story, not a textbook. Kids can listen to the audiobook while coloring or building, making history accessible and engaging.
Cost: Book $20, Audiobook $40, Activity Book $25
Parent Involvement: Moderate
👉 We used Story of the World for years and really enjoyed it. We loved the narrative storytelling, hands-on projects, and audiobook option.
Notgrass History
Why it works: Short, engaging readings with read-aloud or audio options. Written work can be done verbally or through drawing.
Cost: $100–$150 per year
Parent Involvement: Moderate to high
👉 I have looked into this so many times and have friends who love it.
Biblioplan
Why it works: Literature-based, flexible, and allows read-aloud or audiobook use. Projects are hands-on and discussion-based rather than heavy on writing.
Cost: $60–$100 per year
Parent Involvement: Moderate
👉 One of our all-time favorite curriculums. Picture Story of the World, but from a Biblical perspective. The projects, inclusion of video and movie ideas, extensive book lists, and the ability to use it for grades K-12 make it absolutely perfect for our family.
Science Curriculum for Dyslexia
Apologia (with Audiobook)
Why it works: Conversational writing style, with audiobooks for listening. Notebooking journals can be dictated or illustrated.
Cost: $60–$80 for book, $30–$40 for audiobook
Parent Involvement: Moderate
👉 This is one I avoided for years because I could not get past the look of the older editions. I finally sucked it up and I am so glad I did. Even though they have new, lovely editions, I buy the older editions second hand. My boys thoroughly enjoy these books and love the hands-on experiments and projects.
Science Shepherd
Why it works: Short, video-based, faith-friendly lessons. Independent-friendly and approachable for dyslexic learners.
Cost: $60–$80 per year (Use code “TEACHINGTINYDISCIPLES” for 10% off)
Parent Involvement: Low to moderate
👉 Biblically sound, videos, and the ability to use with multiple ages make Science Shepherd an amazing choice for students who are college bound, but need that visual aspect.
Multi-Subject & Unit Study Options
For families who want gentle, literature-based learning across subjects:
Simple Studies
Why it works: Open-and-go, hands-on unit studies. Flexible pacing allows kids to listen instead of read, with projects and narration options.
Parent Involvement: Moderate
👉 I adore Simple Studies specifially for that K-4th grade level. Their history and science guides were so fun when my boys were younger. They have however, expanded some of the new guides into middle school.
The Waldock Way
Why it works: Combines literature, history, and science in short, manageable lessons. Very adaptable for struggling readers.
Parent Involvement: Moderate
👉 Jessica is The Queen of Unit Studies. The Waldock Way has so many different subject areas, from Harry Potter themed, to Magic Tree House. Those first few years of struggling to read and spell demanded some fun and interest led learning in other subjects.
Rabbit Trails Homeschool
Why it works: Encourages exploration and hands-on projects across subjects. Perfect for dyslexic kids who thrive with discussion and auditory or kinesthetic learning instead of heavy writing.
Use code “kelsey” for 10% off!
Parent Involvement: Moderate
👉 Christine does such an amazing job at picking quality literature for each Rabbit Trail Unit. From Bible, to history, to science, and everything in-between.
Math Curriculum for Dyslexia
Can Dyslexia Affect Math? Absolutely — and You’re Not Alone.
Many people think dyslexia only affects reading, but it can impact math too — especially when it comes to remembering steps, recalling math facts, solving word problems, or keeping numbers in the right order.
Some kids understand math perfectly well but still:
- Flip 41 and 14
- Forget steps they “knew yesterday”
- Struggle with timed tests or worksheets
- Freeze when reading word problems aloud
This isn’t laziness — it’s because dyslexia often overlaps with working memory and sequencing challenges. The good news is: there are math programs designed with this in mind.
Check out all of our different math flip thrus in this playlist!
Best Math Curriculum for Dyslexia
Math-U-See
Why it works:
One of the most dyslexia- and dyscalculia-friendly programs out there. It uses hands-on blocks, color coding, and video lessons so kids see the math rather than just memorizing steps. Each level focuses deeply on one concept at a time, preventing overwhelm.
Cost:
- $75–$150 per level (blocks are reusable across all years)
Parent Involvement:
- Moderate — Parent previews or watches lessons and guides practice
👉 My eldest is currently using this for pre-algebra and really enjoying it. The lessons are short, but there is tons of repetition for him to practice the concepts without him feeling bored or overwhelmed.
Math with Confidence
Why it works:
Scripted, open-and-go, and highly hands-on, with math games woven into the weekly routine. Lessons are short and approachable, perfect for kids who shut down over busywork or long pages of problems.
Cost:
- $30–$50 per level
Parent Involvement:
- High — Designed for 1:1 teaching with clear scripts
👉 We absolutely love Math with Confidence and I wish I had it for my eldest. The games and lessons can take a bit of extra time, but it’s absolutely worth it for children that struggle with math.
BJU Math
Why it works:
Uses spiral review and strong visuals, helping kids revisit concepts until mastery. The video lesson option is great for kids who do better learning from someone other than Mom or Dad.
Cost:
- $100–$200 depending on print vs. video format (workbooks alone are cheaper and all I used)
Parent Involvement:
- Low to Moderate — Videos handle most of the teaching if you choose that option
👉 After years of struggling to find something, this was perfect when we needed something to the point. I loved the mix of spiral and mastery. It had just enough repeition for it to click, without feeling like he had too much to do.
Times Tales (Math Facts Memorization Aid)
Why it works:
Instead of drilling, Times Tales teaches multiplication through story-based visual mnemonics. Kids remember facts like 7×8 not by memorizing — but by recalling a funny story. Many kids learn all upper times tables in just a week or two.
Cost:
- $20–$30 for digital or physical format
Parent Involvement:
- Very Low — Just play the videos and review
👉 I could not believe how well this worked! I just wish it included all the math facts, not just the hard to learn ones.
Confidence Comes First
If your child is frustrated and losing confidence, please hear this:
They are not broken. The system just wasn’t built for them.
The right homeschool curriculum for dyslexia won’t just improve academics — it will rebuild their confidence.
Progress may be slow, but slow is still forward.
And every time your child says, “I can read this!” — you’ll know it’s working.
You are not behind. You are teaching differently, and that difference is exactly what they need. ❤️
Find Me on Youtube
I have reviewed and looked through many of the curricula mentioned in this post. Be sure to check it out!