I’m always surprised that more families and schools don’t use reader pens for dyslexia. They are a great piece of assistive technology and will change the way any child with dyslexia learns – they are a total gamechanger!
What is a reader pen?
A reader pen is a portable and compact device designed to encourage and enable independent reading for anyone who struggles with dyslexia and other literacy based learning difficulties. They are designed to feel like a large pen and feature OCR technology (Optical Character Recognition) which enables the user to scan and highlight any text (both typed and handwritten). It will then read it aloud to the user in real time. They can be used with editing software and dictionary programs to assist with reading comprehension and even help the user learn a foreign language.
What are the benefits of reader pens for dyslexia?
Reader pens have a number of distinct and extremely useful functions that other assistive tools (scanning pens, note-taking app, speech programs, text readers etc.) can’t do. These include:
- They work in real time
- They can also be used as dictionaries to help with learning a foreign language
- They (usually) require no wifi
- They have internal storage – to save text and audio recordings.
- They are really quick and simple to use
My top 5 reader pens for dyslexia:
The Scanmarker Air is one of the best e-readers on the market and our personal favourite. It offers several useful features, including:
- Wireless Connectivity
- Multiple Language Recognition: The device recognizes and scans text in over 40 languages, making it a versatile tool for international users.
- Quick and Accurate Scanning: The Scanmarker Air scans text quickly and accurately, reducing the time and effort required to manually copy text.
- Multiple Font Recognition: It can recognize and scan text in a variety of fonts and styles, including cursive and italicized text.
- Text-to-Speech Conversion: Perfect for kids with dyslexia
- Compact and Portable: The device is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around and use on-the-go.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: The Scanmarker Air is compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
Key features of the C-Pen include:
- Text-to-speech: The C-Pen Reader has a natural-sounding voice, making it easier for users to comprehend and retain information.
- Translation: The device can translate text in multiple languages, making it useful for people who need to read materials in different languages.
- Dictionary: The C-Pen Reader has a built-in dictionary that can define words and provide context for better understanding.
- Voice recorder: Users can record their own voice and save it as a voice memo for future reference or study.
- Scan and store: The C-Pen Reader can scan and store up to 10,000 pages of text, allowing users to access and review information later.
- Easy to use: The device is designed to be simple and intuitive, with a lightweight and ergonomic design that makes it easy to hold and use for extended periods of time.
- Rechargeable battery: The C-Pen Reader has a long-lasting rechargeable battery that can provide up to 6 hours of continuous use.
The OrCam read is one of the most expensive reader pens for dyslexia. However I have added it because one of its functions includes a whole page scanner which scans everything unlike other reader pens. Other features include:
- laser guidance
- voice control
- A digital highlighter (for reading in poor light)
- Simple to use – a point and click device
- Internet not required for scanning and reading
- Recharchable battery which will hold its charge for between 5-7 years
- Pairs with bluetooth devices
- AI vision
The Rocket Reader Pen is popular with kids with dyslexia. It offers a number of features including:
- A playback text to speech feature – no amount of text will be too hard to understand or difficult to read
- Translation available
- Text scanning option
- Helps with spelling
- No wifi required
The NEWYES Scan Reader Pen is one of the more affordable options. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s in any way inferior. Some of the most useful features include:
- Text to speech function
- Built in Collins Dictionary
- You can also search definitions
- Adjustable speed
- Ability to pause
- British and American accents are available
- Multi-language options available
- High accuracy with the ability to save quotes and important sentences when reading books.
- Text transfer to PC via a USB cable.
I reccomend all five of these reader pens for all kids with dyslexia. They will help them to overcome any block they may have with reading and ensure that they develop a love of all things literature. Unlock their imagination with the chance to sit and read on their own. They deserve the chance to learn in an inclusive environment.
Dyslexia does not need to hold your child back. Yes, they may have to work slightly harder, yes they will require additional support, however they have just as much chance to fly as any other child in their class.
Click here for my top tools for dyslexia.
***As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases***
However, this has in no way influenced my choice of what I have listed in this post.
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