As literacy skills are so strongly emphasized during the schooling process, dyslexic children experience a great deal of failure which can easily lower their self-esteem and make them feel that they must be stupid. This is why it is important for dyslexic children to receive as much praise, credits, certificates, gold stars, etc. as the other children. To complete a piece of written work in class is twice as hard as for a non-dyslexic child. It is also important for a dyslexic child to have art, crafts, physical education and sports during their week in school, as these are the only areas in which they may excel and experience a feeling of satisfaction in learning. On the contrary, given proper support, dyslexic students are perfectly able to go on to achieve good degrees at university and pursue successful careers.
Many websites contain lists of outstandingly successful adults who are dyslexic.
The most important thing you can do is to build up the damaged confidence and self-esteem of your child. Make sure he knows he is loved for himself, and that this love is not dependent on how well he does at school. Make it clear that the child's difficulties are not his fault. Be very encouraging and find things he is good at. Help with homework from school, or from any special needs lessons.