Who is this type of reading program best suited for?
This program works best for children who have difficulties with ‘decoding’, or accurately identifying words on a page- comprehension challenges require a very different sort of intervention. We practice all the sounds, letter patterns, and strategies needed to be able to accurately and fluently figure out unfamiliar words, and our work together offers lots of practice to develop mastery and fluency with each successive reading skill.
How often do the students come?
I see students 2x week, as there’s an important momentum to be gained by practicing often enough to internalize new material and concepts. Many students who struggle with reading tend to need lots of repeated practice with new patterns and concepts in order to move them into long term memory. Also, learners are generally much more eager to participate fully when they can see and feel their own progress, and twice a week can best support that kind of growth.
What are your rates?
My fee is $70/ session (about 55 minutes long). A limited number of sliding scale slots are also available for those in need.
Can I first discuss the specifics of my child’s situation?
Feel free to contact me by phone or email to discuss their learning strengths and weaknesses. If it looks like my methods could be helpful, we would set up an initial consultation at no charge.
Is it necessary to have a school or private educational evaluation, or a diagnosis of a particular learning disability such as dyslexia?
A well done educational evaluation can be very helpful overall, but is not at all necessary in order to begin reading instruction. This method is highly effective for those with identified learning disabilities such as dyslexia, and many others who struggle for as-yet-unidentified reasons.
Will we need to do additional work at home?
That is completely up to the family. Some parents prefer not to try to wear both hats (teacher and parent), or simply don’t have the time or comfort level to work on reading skills at home. For those who would like to, I'm glad to send home readers, worksheets and activities to practice with between sessions.
How long will my child need tutoring?
That’s impossible to determine until we see how quickly the student will pick up and internalize the new skills. For those who have no processing issues and simply need the ‘code’ explained, about 6 fmonths can often set them securely on their way. For those who have genuine processing issues (including dyslexia) and will need lots more repetition/practice, it takes longer; often between 1-3 years. We can usually get a sense of their speed of progress during the first month or so of tutoring.
