Mind Mapping (Spider Diagrams)

Mind mapping or spider diagrams are a very useful way of recording information.  It is a useful revision technique as well as being an excellent way of encouraging processing of information into chunks.  It is often recommended for children who experience writing difficulties.  Furthermore, it is a useful technique for children who have some form of language disorder, as the chunking of information helps them develop comprehension skills and assists in the formation of mental links. Find out more about developmental language disorder.

If you find it difficult to persuade your child's school to adopt this or other alternative methods of recording it may be helpful seek specialist advice from a specialist SpLD assessor. The resulting recommendations may prove helpful to the school and help facilitate changes that help the child fully access the curriculum.

Mind mapping software can be helpful to support this approach. We have found MindMup offers good free mind mapping software. Xmind is another type of free mind mapping software we recommend.