What is dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a neurological learning difference that affects how the brain processes written language. It makes reading, spelling, and sometimes writing, more challenging. Dyslexia is not caused by low intelligence, laziness, or a vision problem.
Does my child need a diagnosis to begin working with you?
No! In fact, your child does not need to have any learning deficit to benefit from Orton-Gillingham. OG based instruction teaches how the brain actually learns to read, focusing on decoding—the process of connecting letters to sounds to form words. This helps children understand the structure of language, so they can read and spell with confidence. It works well for all learners, whether a child struggles with reading, wants to strengthen their skills, or is just starting out. Every child benefits from learning the rules of language in a clear, step-by-step way, building a strong foundation that supports lifelong literacy.
What is Orton-Gillingham?
Orton-Gillingham (OG) is an approach to teaching reading and spelling that is structured, sequential, and multi-sensory. It focuses on teaching the connections between letters and sounds, helping students, especially those with dyslexia or reading difficulties, become confident and skilled readers. Orton-Gillingham directly addresses how the brain processes language, rather than relying on rote memorization or exposure.
What is Structured Literacy?
Structured Literacy is a clear, step-by-step approach to teaching reading and spelling based on the science of how children learn to read. It provides systematic instruction in phonology, phonics, syllable patterns, morphology, sentence structure, and meaning, teaching each skill in a logical sequence that builds upon previously learned concepts. Structured literacy equips students with the tools to decode words accurately and independently. This approach is especially effective for students with dyslexia or other reading challenges.
Can you diagnose my child?
No. While I have over seven years of experience working with students who have a variety of processing disorders and more complex learning needs, I am not qualified to provide formal diagnoses. A licensed psychologist or other intervention specialist would need to conduct a full evaluation for that.
What is Barton’s fidelity standard?
“Teaching with fidelity” means following the Barton program exactly as it was designed. Lessons are taught in order, using the provided scripts and post-testing, so students fully understand each concept before moving on. An important part of maintaining fidelity is consistency—how often sessions are held and for how long. Barton should be implemented for a minimum of two hours per week to ensure the program is effective.
Where are in-person tutoring sessions held?
I currently travel to my students’ homes for in-person sessions. If location and availability allow, we may also arrange to meet in a reserved room at the public library. I’m happy to discuss what works best for your family’s needs and schedule.
Is virtual instruction a good fit for every student?
Most students thrive in a virtual setting. I use specialized software that allows students to manipulate tiles and trace sounds in an interactive, hands-on way. In some cases, in-person sessions may be a better fit depending on a child’s specific processing needs. I’m always happy to talk through what would work best for your child.
Who is an ideal candidate for Barton tutoring?
Barton recommends that students be at least 5 and in kindergarten, can speak and comprehend spoken English, has an IQ above 71, and can pass the Barton student screening. If you answered “no” to any of these criteria, that doesn’t necessarily mean we can’t work together. The Foundations in Sounds™ program can help prepare students to successfully pass the screening. I can also tailor my approach to meet your child exactly where they are and support their individual learning needs.
Do you administer the Barton student screening?
Absolutely! I offer a free initial consultation, which includes delivering the student screening at no cost.
Will you help my child with homework?
No, I currently focus exclusively on the Foundations in Sounds™ and Barton curricula and do not tutor other subjects.