Supporting dyslexia with visual-friendly materials
One of the most effective ways to support pupils with dyslexia is to review the materials you use. Many children with dyslexia struggle with high-contrast black text on white paper, which can cause visual stress and make words appear to blur or move on the page. That extra visual strain can quickly lead to fatigue, especially during longer reading or writing tasks.
Switching to tinted paper is a simple change that can make a big difference. Soft, coloured paper can help reduce glare and make text easier to follow, creating a calmer and more accessible reading experience. That’s why we offer a range of personalised exercise books with tinted paper options in cream, blue, green, pink, and yellow to provide a range of options for your students.
Having a few tinted books or handouts available in your classroom can be a proactive way to minimise disruption and make sure no child has to wait for materials that suit them. It’s a small preparation that can go a long way in helping children settle more quickly into written work.
Supporting autism through structure and predictability
Autistic pupils often experience sensory processing differences and other challenges in the classroom, which can make busy or unpredictable environments particularly overwhelming. Noisy classrooms, sudden changes to routine, or unclear expectations can lead to stress or frustration – especially if a student finds it difficult to communicate how they’re feeling.
Consistency is key here. Establishing clear classroom routines, with visible structure and advance notice of any changes (like fire drills or supply teacher days), can really help reduce anxiety. Visual timetables or ‘now and next’ boards can be useful tools for setting clear expectations - and they often benefit the whole class, not just children with autism.
It can also be helpful to have a quieter breakout space available, even if it’s just a small corner in the classroom with a beanbag or a calm-down kit. For some children, knowing they can step away when they’re feeling overwhelmed is enough to help them stay on track with the day.
This kind of support isn’t about treating anyone differently; it’s about shaping classroom routines that include everyone. A quiet breakout space might be essential for some students, but it’s also a useful option for anyone who needs a moment to regroup.
Supporting pupils with behavioural, emotional and social difficulties (BESD)
Pupils with BESD (behavioural, emotional and social difficulties) can experience a range of challenges in the classroom. Many of the strategies that work well for supporting autistic students are also effective here, such as clear boundaries, consistent routines, and making sure children feel safe and understood.
Unstructured times, like the transitions between lessons or even break times, are often the trickiest. So, having a clear plan and structure around what’s expected during these times can really help take away any anxiety and keep your BESD students focused and happy.
Minimising distractions like background noise, visual clutter, or seating arrangements can also make a big difference. When children are working hard to manage their emotions, a calmer environment is likely to help them stay engaged and feel more comfortable.
Using positive language and open body language is also just as important. Approaching students with patience and calm helps build trust, especially for the children who’ve found school challenging before. You may find a few techniques or approaches that are particularly helpful generally, but it’s important to remember that what works one day might not work the next, so it’s all about being patient and ready to adjust your methods and approaches as needed to find the right balance.
The role of personalised resources in supporting SEN pupils
As their teacher, you play the biggest role in creating an inclusive and supportive classroom, but having the right tools can really help, too! Our personalised exercise books come with tinted paper options designed to support children with SEN, so everyone can use the same exercise book, no matter their needs. This way, no one feels singled out or different, and it helps build a genuine sense of belonging and teamwork.
But personalisation doesn’t stop at paper colour. You can choose the number of pages and ruling size and even add your school’s name and badge, making the books feel like a true part of your classroom community. When everyone has the same style of book, it brings the class together and creates a stronger sense of unity.
Homework diaries and reading records also play an important role. They help pupils stay organised and improve communication between school and home, giving children the confidence to take charge of their learning while keeping parents in the loop.
All of these personalised resources work together to reduce disruption and create a classroom environment where every student feels included, supported, and ready to succeed as part of the team. That’s what we’re all about at EPSL!
With over 50 years of experience, we're proud to support schools and teachers by offering a wide range of resources that make learning more inclusive and enjoyable for every student. If you'd like to know more about how our products can support your classroom or need help with your order, just give us a call on 01254 686 500. We're always happy to help!
