As we celebrate Dyslexia Awareness Week, I want to share my personal journey with dyslexia and how it has influenced my work and life. Growing up, I faced challenges with reading and spelling without knowing why. It wasn’t until I was pursuing my diploma in Art and Design at the University of South Wales that I was diagnosed with dyslexia. This diagnosis was a turning point; it helped me understand that my difficulties weren’t due to a lack of intelligence but rather the way my brain processes information differently.
In school, I dreaded reading exercises. I vividly remember the anxiety of waiting for my turn to read aloud, mentally preparing myself for the lines I’d need to recite. This led to many evenings spent using Tippex, correcting my mistakes and feeling isolated. I was even taken out of the main class for specialised reading sessions, but rather than feeling supported, I felt as though I was part of the "slow class." My self-esteem suffered significantly.
The diagnosis I received in university was both clarifying and liberating. Learning that my struggles were due to dyslexia lifted a heavy weight off my shoulders. I began to see dyslexia not as a limitation but as a unique ability—a superpower. It allowed me to think creatively and visualise solutions in ways others might not, an asset that became crucial in my work as a product designer.
This experience heavily influenced the creation of My ABC Piano. I wanted to develop a product that not only made learning the alphabet fun and engaging but also accessible for children who may face challenges similar to mine. With my personal perspective and desire to help others, I was inspired to create an educational tool that supports early language development, making the process enjoyable and inclusive. My goal was to design a product that promotes literacy and creates a love for learning, especially for those who might struggle.
Incorporating multi-sensory learning into My ABC Piano was essential for me. Rather than a simple toy, I designed it as an interactive tool where each button connects with a sound, teaching children phonics, words, animal names in a hands-on way. This approach ensures that learning is both dynamic and engaging, catering to different learning styles and keeping children interested.
My children have always been the driving force behind my creations. They inspire me to develop products that benefit not just them but children all over the world. My hope is that My ABC Piano can make a positive impact on children’s lives, particularly those who may find traditional learning methods challenging. If even one child can benefit from my work, then I’ve achieved my goal.
Today, with My ABC Piano, I am proud to offer an educational tool that introduces phonics in a fun, interactive way. It features buttons that play letter sounds and names, helping children as young as 2 years old learn in an enjoyable manner.
As we reflect on dyslexia during this awareness week, I hope to inspire others to embrace their unique learning styles. Dyslexia can be challenging, but it also offers strengths and creativity. Let’s work together to create a world where every child has the tools and support they need to thrive.