Read&Write for Google Chrome

Read&Write for Google Chrome

app

Everyone, 2015, Education

WISE
78%

WISE Score

4.7

App Store

A legitimately helpful assistive keyboard for students who struggle with reading and writing—think dyslexia, ESL, or learning differences.

Screenwise Verdict

Read&Write is one of those tools that won't excite most kids, but for the right student, it's a game-changer. If your child struggles with reading fluency, spelling, or getting thoughts onto paper, this can genuinely reduce stress and open doors.

It's not flashy or fun—it's a straightforward assistive keyboard with text-to-speech, word prediction, and dictionary tools. But that's the point. It quietly removes barriers so kids can focus on learning instead of fighting with the mechanics of reading and writing.

The catch: this Android version is from 2015 and may feel clunky. The Chrome extension version is more robust and widely used in schools. And you'll need a subscription after the 30-day trial, which can be pricey for individual families (schools often provide access).

Bottom line: if your kid needs it, it's worth it. If they don't, there's no reason to download it.

Age Fit

Best for elementary through high school students (roughly ages 6–18) who have dyslexia, learning differences, or are learning English. Not age-specific per se, but most valuable during active schooling years when reading and writing demands are high.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
92

This is a supportive assistive technology tool designed to help students with dyslexia, learning differences, and ESL learners. It promotes independence, builds confidence, and reduces frustration around reading and writing. The tone is encouraging and accessible, with no concerning content.

Imaginative
35

This is a utilitarian accessibility tool, not a creative platform. It helps students access and produce text but doesn't invite open-ended exploration, building, or creative expression. The picture dictionary adds minor visual interest, but the app is fundamentally about functional literacy support.

Safe
95

Extremely safe. No ads, no social features, no user-generated content, no chat. It's a straightforward assistive keyboard and reading tool. The 30-day trial is transparent, and it's designed for educational/institutional use. Common Sense Media reviews confirm it's a trusted accessibility tool with no safety concerns.

Enriching
88

Highly enriching for its target audience. Text-to-speech, word prediction, dictionaries, and spell-check directly support literacy development and academic success. For students with dyslexia or language barriers, this tool can be genuinely transformative—removing obstacles to learning and building real skills and confidence. Common Sense Education notes it 'promotes independence and building confidence.'

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Text-to-speech with highlighting helps kids hear what they're reading or writing in real-time
  • Word prediction and spell-check reduce frustration and speed up writing
  • Picture and talking dictionaries support vocabulary development
  • Builds genuine independence and confidence for students with learning differences
  • Used widely in schools and recommended by Common Sense Education as a solid accessibility tool
⚠

What to Watch For

  • This is a 30-day trial—you'll need a subscription (typically through school or purchased separately) to keep using it
  • It's a utility, not a game or creative app—kids won't 'want' to use it unless they genuinely need literacy support
  • Android version from 2015 may feel dated; Chrome extension version is more current and widely used

Conversation Starters

  • "Does hearing the words out loud help you understand what you're reading better?"
  • "What's your favorite feature—the word prediction or the dictionary?"
  • "Do you feel less stressed about writing when you use this tool?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic