Author and illustrator Tom McLaughlin has shared his personal experience with dyslexia in a piece for BBC Radio 2's 500 Words competition, encouraging young writers to embrace their differences. McLaughlin, who was diagnosed with dyslexia at age 12, recalls feeling daunted and embarrassed after the diagnosis, and later being called lazy and stupid. However, he eventually realised that spelling ability is not the same as writing talent.
McLaughlin describes being dyslexic as being part of an exclusive club that should be embraced rather than feared. He advises young writers to ignore critics with red pens and to focus on telling a story rather than avoiding mistakes. He notes that his dyslexia fluctuates day-to-day, sometimes making simple words difficult, but he adapts by drawing comic strips or writing poetry, which provides a helpful structure.
The author urges children not to be afraid to talk about their dyslexia, as people are often interested and it helps with self-acceptance. He recommends using the internet to learn more about the condition and reminds children that teachers are there to help. For those who find reading difficult, he suggests audiobooks and podcasts as alternative sources of stories.
McLaughlin concludes with a powerful message: being dyslexic means having a brain that works differently, and being different is never a bad thing. He encourages all children to write their own 500-word stories, regardless of any challenges they may face.
