ReadSpeaker TextAid Text to Speech Software for Dyslexia

ReadSpeaker TextAid is web-based text to speech software for students with dyslexia that reads assignments, textbooks, web pages and scanned documents aloud while highlighting the text. It also offers word prediction, spell check and dictation, and works on any internet-connected device without downloads, supporting independent reading at school and at home.

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Around 1 in 10 people are dyslexic, according to the British Dyslexia Association, and decoding long passages of text is often slow and tiring. ReadSpeaker TextAid School Edition removes that barrier by reading text aloud in a natural-sounding voice, so learners can focus on understanding. It sits alongside our wider text to speech and SEND assistive software ranges.

What does ReadSpeaker TextAid do?

TextAid converts written content into speech while highlighting the text, so the reader can listen and follow along at the same time. Users can adjust the reading speed and highlighting, and choose from multiple voices and languages. Documents, including scanned images, can be uploaded and read aloud, and the TextAid Web Reader reads web pages with a single click. Highlighters, annotations and a personal text library help learners organise and summarise study materials.

How do I choose text to speech software for dyslexia?

Think about where the reading happens. Web-based software such as TextAid works on any internet-connected device without installation, which suits pupils who move between school and home computers. Check that the software can read scanned worksheets as well as digital text, and whether writing support such as word prediction and dictation is included. For assessments, look for a secure exam mode, and confirm use with your exam centre. If the learner reads mainly from printed books away from a computer, a portable reader pen for dyslexia may suit better.

Who is TextAid for?

Schools: SENCOs and teachers use TextAid as assistive technology within SEN provision, giving pupils with dyslexia independent access to textbooks, assignments and online learning.

Parents: because TextAid runs in a web browser, children can use the same reading support for homework and revision at home as they use in class.

Workplace: text to speech software can be a reasonable adjustment for adults with dyslexia under the Equality Act 2010. The edition we stock is the School Edition, so please contact us to discuss workplace options, or explore Dragon speech recognition software for writing support.

Browse the range below, or get in touch for school and bulk orders.

 

Need advice? Call us to have a chat - 01394 671 818 or email us hello@thedyslexiashop.co.uk

Frequently asked questions

What is ReadSpeaker TextAid?

ReadSpeaker TextAid is a web-based literacy support tool that converts written text into natural-sounding speech. The School Edition is designed to help students with dyslexia and other reading difficulties listen to assignments, textbooks, web pages and their own documents while following the highlighted text. It also includes writing support, such as word prediction, spell check and dictation, and study tools for organising notes.

How does text to speech software help students with dyslexia?

Text to speech software helps students with dyslexia by reading text aloud, so understanding is no longer limited by decoding speed. Hearing the words while following highlighted text supports comprehension and retention, and reduces the fatigue of reading long passages. Students can then work with age-appropriate texts independently, rather than waiting for an adult to read to them or relying on simplified material.

Does TextAid need to be installed on a computer?

No, TextAid is fully web-based, so it is accessible on any internet-connected device without the need for downloads. This makes it practical for schools with shared computers and for pupils who work across several devices, because their reading support is available wherever they log in. The TextAid Web Reader also reads web pages aloud with a single click.

Can TextAid read scanned documents?

Yes, TextAid can read scanned documents aloud. Users can upload various document formats, including scanned images, and the software converts the text so it can be read aloud with highlighting. This is useful for printed worksheets, handouts and letters that are not available digitally, because a quick scan turns them into accessible text for learners with dyslexia.

Can TextAid be used in exams?

TextAid includes an Exam Mode that allows secure, speech-enabled assessments within controlled environments. Whether a candidate can use it in a formal exam is decided by the exam centre under the JCQ access arrangements, and depends on the subject and the pupil's normal way of working. Speak to your SENCO or exams officer early, so the pupil uses it regularly in class first.

Can parents use TextAid at home?

Yes, because TextAid runs on any internet-connected device, children can use it for homework, reading and revision at home as well as at school. Parents find it helps children work independently, as the software reads instructions and texts aloud and offers spell check and word prediction for written answers. Using the same tool in both places keeps a child's way of working consistent.

Is text to speech software a reasonable adjustment at work?

Yes, text to speech software is a common reasonable adjustment for adults with dyslexia. Under the Equality Act 2010, employers have a duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees, which can include people with dyslexia. Access to Work is a government scheme that can contribute towards specialist equipment for eligible employees. The TextAid edition we stock is the School Edition, so please contact us to discuss options for workplace use.