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Welcome to The SpLD Hub Knowledge Hub
Welcome to the SPLD Hub Knowledge Hub—a growing library of practical, evidence-informed articles designed to support parents, adults, educators and organisations. Written by an APC-qualified specialist assessor, these resources explain specific learning differences (SpLDs), assessments, reasonable adjustments and practical strategies in clear, accessible language to help you make informed decisions.
You can browse all articles or search by category to find information on topics including dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, dysgraphia, assessments, learning support and assistive technology.
Can't find the information you're looking for? If there's a topic, question or specific learning difference you'd like us to cover, we'd love to hear from you. Please get in touch—we're always looking to expand the Knowledge Hub with resources that are genuinely useful to our community.
💻 When to Use Technology Instead of Handwriting in KS2 and KS3
Find out when it may be appropriate for children to use a laptop or speech-to-text instead of handwriting in KS2 and KS3, and how this can support learning and confidence.
Emma Stokes
Jun 13 min read
✏️ Best Pencil Grips for Children with Fine Motor Difficulties (SpLD Guide)
Discover how pencil grips can support children with handwriting and fine motor difficulties, including which types may help and how to choose the right one.
Emma Stokes
May 253 min read
🏫 Why Handwriting Becomes Harder in KS2 and KS3 (and What to Do About It)
Find out why handwriting often becomes harder in KS2 and KS3, including increased writing demands, fatigue, and speed pressures, plus practical ways to support learners.
Emma Stokes
May 183 min read
Signs of Dysgraphia in Children: Symptoms, Impact and Support Strategies
Learn the signs of dysgraphia in children, how it affects handwriting and written work, and practical ways parents and teachers can support confidence and learning.
Emma Stokes
May 113 min read
Signs Your Child May Need a Dyslexia Assessment 🔎
A guide for parents and carers Many parents notice that their child is bright, curious, and capable — yet reading, writing, or spelling seems much harder for them than for other children. Sometimes families are told to “wait and see” or that the child will “catch up”. While development varies, persistent difficulties may indicate that a dyslexia assessment could be helpful. This guide explains some common signs that may suggest a child could benefit from an assessment. What I
Emma Stokes
Mar 93 min read
Supporting Spelling at Home for Dyslexic Learners (By Age) ✏️
Spelling can be particularly challenging for children with dyslexia or other Specific Learning Differences (SpLD). Many parents are told to “just practise spellings more,” but for dyslexic learners, the way spellings are practised matters far more than the amount of practice.
This guide explains:
- Why spelling is difficult for dyslexic learners
- Evidence-informed strategies that actually help
- How to practise at home in manageable ways
- Age-appropriate approaches
Emma Stokes
Feb 233 min read
A Simple Way to Raise SpLD Awareness in Schools
Understanding Specific Learning Differences (SpLDs) such as dyslexia, DCD/dyspraxia, ADHD, ASD, and dyscalculia is a vital part of building inclusive schools. When students and staff understand how SpLDs affect learning and everyday school experiences, classrooms become more supportive, empathetic, and effective. Many schools want to improve awareness but struggle to find engaging, age-appropriate resources that are easy to deliver and fit into busy timetables. That’s why I c
Emma Stokes
Feb 162 min read
Is Bad Handwriting Masking Spelling and Content Difficulties, or Is It Something Else?
Is it just untidy handwriting, or a sign of something more? Discover how writing difficulties can overlap with other learning needs.
Emma Stokes
Feb 92 min read
What Are Access Arrangements and How Can They Help You?
Extra time, rest breaks, a reader — Access Arrangements can make assessments more equitable. This blog breaks down what they are and how to apply.
Emma Stokes
Feb 22 min read
Why Reading is Important and Why Audiobooks Are a Great Resource for SpLD Individuals
Reading isn’t just about books — it’s a gateway to independence, confidence, and learning. For SpLD individuals, audiobooks can open up access in empowering ways.
Emma Stokes
Jan 261 min read
So... What Does Good Quality Teaching Mean?
Good quality teaching is more than just strong lesson plans — it’s the foundation of inclusive education. This post explores what quality teaching looks like in today’s classrooms, how it supports all learners (including those with SEND), and how it fits into the wider framework of support in UK schools.
Emma Stokes
Jan 192 min read
Why Tuition Isn’t Just About Academic Progress: Supporting the Whole Child
A child may come out of a session talking about their day — not spelling rules. But building trust is the foundation of learning.
Emma Stokes
Jan 121 min read
So... What Is Regulation?
Regulation is more than just staying calm — it’s about managing emotions, focus, and responses. From early childhood to adulthood, this blog explores how self-regulation develops, what dysregulation can look like, and how co-regulation and support strategies can help learners thrive at any age.
Emma Stokes
Jan 53 min read
If I Can’t Tell the Time — Should I Focus on Analogue or Digital?
Struggling with time-telling? Whether it’s analogue, digital, or both — here’s how to support learners at any age with practical strategies.
Emma Stokes
Dec 29, 20252 min read
Tell Me About Text-to-Speech on Microsoft and Apple Devices: A Guide for Parents and Adults
Did you know your devices can read text aloud? Here’s how to activate and use built-in text-to-speech tools at home, work or school.
Emma Stokes
Dec 22, 20252 min read
Tell Me About Speech-to-Text on Microsoft and Apple Devices: A Guide for Everyone
Say it — don’t type it. Speech-to-text can save time, energy, and stress for learners and adults alike.
Emma Stokes
Dec 15, 20252 min read
If Phonics Isn’t Working: Could Morphology or Whole Word Learning Help?
If phonics alone isn’t clicking, you’re not stuck. Learn how breaking down meaning (morphology) and learning whole words can support struggling readers.
Emma Stokes
Dec 8, 20252 min read
Helping SpLD Learners at Home: Practical Tips for Parents and Caregivers
Whether it’s homework or everyday tasks, there’s a lot you can do to help at home. Here’s how to create a supportive learning environment.
Emma Stokes
Dec 1, 20251 min read
Improving Focus Through Movement
Movement isn’t just for sport — it’s a powerful tool for improving focus, regulating energy, and supporting learning and productivity. In this blog, we explore how movement strategies can help children in school, teens studying for exams, and adults navigating busy workplaces. Practical tips for every age and stage.
Emma Stokes
Nov 24, 20252 min read
Dyscalculia and Money: Supporting Practical Maths Skills
Coins, prices, budgeting — money matters can feel overwhelming with dyscalculia. Let’s explore ways to build real-world number confidence.
Emma Stokes
Nov 17, 20252 min read
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