Reading tools can read textbooks, articles and homework aloud when the text is too hard to read alone. Where you can, use the same tool at home and in school.

Decide what the tool is for

A reading pen can scan printed words or lines. Text-to-speech software can read digital documents and webpages.

Agree with the young person and school:

• which texts the tool is for;

• when independent reading should still be attempted;

• how to follow the text while listening;

• where the tool may be used in school; and

• how teachers will know whether it is improving access.

For example, a young person might use text-to-speech for a dense history source, then independently read the shorter questions and write the response.

Free and paid options

• Most phones, tablets and computers have a free read-aloud setting for text on a screen. On an iPhone or iPad it is called Speak Selection or Speak Screen, on Android it is Select to Speak, and in the free Microsoft Edge browser it is Read aloud. Ask school which tool the young person uses in lessons and start with that.

• C-Pen Reader (paid) provides portable scanning and speech for printed text. Reading pens can cost a few hundred pounds, so check whether school can provide one first.

• Read&Write (paid) provides text-to-speech and related supports for digital text. Ask whether the school licence includes home access.

Teach the routine and then step back. Technology should increase independence, not require an adult to operate it.

Exams have their own rules. Using a tool in lessons does not mean it can be used in exams, so ask school what is allowed and when that will be decided.

Talamo has no commercial relationship with any of the organisations named here. We suggest them only because we think they could be useful to families.