Overview
- One-on-one sessions tailored to the individual needs of each student
- Specialize in the treatment of learning disorders in reading and writing (dyslexia and dysgraphia)
- Evidence-based learning programs
- No formal diagnosis is required
- Multi-sensory and interactive methods to keep students interested and motivated
- Regular assessments ensure ongoing progress
Features of Evidence-Based Programs
- Based on Orton-Gillingham principles
- Focus on phonological awareness
- Instruction and practice on word structure
- Vocabulary building
- Sentence and text level reading
- Listening and reading comprehension
- Proofreading skills
Programs We Use
- Barton Reading & Spelling System
- Wilson Reading System
- Spellography
- Self-Regulated Strategy Development
Signs of Dyslexia
- Delayed speech
- Slow, choppy, inaccurate reading
- Mixing up sounds and syllables in long words
- Difficulty spelling
- Difficulty remembering sight words
- Confusion of left and right
- Difficulty with word finding
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What specific teaching methods do you use for children with dyslexia?
-
How will you assess and measure my child’s current skills and future progress?
-
How do you motivate children who may struggle with reading and writing skills?
-
How can I help my child’s learning at home between tutoring sessions?
-
What is the typical duration of a tutoring session, and how often do you recommend meeting?
-
How will you involve me in the tutoring process, and how often do you provide updates?
What experience do you have working with dyslexic students?
Our tutors use either the Barton Reading and Spelling System or Wilson Reading System. Our staff includes those who can give a clinical diagnosis of learning disabilities as well as those with years of teaching experience and focused literacy training.
Laura Benson, our onsite Barton Reading tutor, previously used the Barton program with the Colorado Springs company Essentials to Success. She has since earned her BA in English and is working towards certification with Barton. She is available to teach students of all ages. She is the mother of a dyslexic child who has experienced both homeschool and public school, and she is a continuing advocate for literacy for all.
Kari Roden, M.A., our virtual tutor, is a Wilson Dyslexia Therapist and a CERI-certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist. She was an elementary school teacher for twelve years. When her daughter was diagnosed with dyslexia, she sought out additional training in evidence-based treatment for dyslexia. She has earned her Master's degree in Literacy. Kari currently owns Bloom Literacy Solutions, which focuses on Dyslexia Evaluations and Consulting. She has done extensive work as a literacy advocate in the State of Wyoming.
What specific teaching methods do you use for children with dyslexia?
We use Orton-Gillingham-based programs with proven success teaching Structured Literacy, including the Barton Reading and Spelling System and Wilson Language Training. Both programs have decades of evidence that their research-based approach to intensive, tiered instruction leads to mastery of essential literacy skills. Lessons include multi-modal learning, literacy games, and individualization for additional differences, such as ADHD.
How will you assess and measure my child’s current skills and future progress?
We perform an initial screening called the Phonological Awareness Screening Test (PAST) for each new tutoring student, which helps us determine how the student will move through the reading curriculum. The reading curriculum has testing at the end of each level that the student must pass with 95% proficiency before moving on to the next level. We also semi-annually measure students’ progress using the CORE Phonics Screeners, the LETRS Spelling Screener, and/or the DIBELS Assessment.
How do you motivate children who may struggle with reading and writing skills?
We help students stay motivated by creating a safe, nurturing space where hard work is as highly praised as achievement. To ensure that we are building confidence along with literacy skills, we celebrate every step of growth as the child progresses through the reading levels, setting short-term goals to work towards as we reach for the long-term goals of literacy and fluency. We notice and affirm each student’s strengths and abilities. We tailor each session to the student’s current needs by offering various tutoring methods, such as games and multi-sensory learning experiences. This helps keep students motivated, engaged, and excited to learn.
How can I help my child’s learning at home between tutoring sessions?
Parents and/or guardians are key allies for dyslexic children and can reinforce positive outlooks daily by identifying a child's strengths and being generous with praise and encouragement. Also, furthering one’s own education about dyslexia increases a parents’ ability to advocate for their children. In addition, parents can give practical support throughout the week, such as reading to children, embracing helpful technologies like audio books, playing games that reinforce literacy skills, and ensuring that children have a healthy, supportive routine.
What is the typical duration of a tutoring session, and how often do you recommend meeting?
We meet with each student for at least two one-hour sessions per week. This is the amount of tutoring that research indicates a student needs to maintain progress and retain skills.
How will you involve me in the tutoring process, and how often do you provide updates?
In a monthly email, we will provide a brief written update, noting progress as well as areas that need additional focus. We often suggest resources and ideas in our written update that will support the student’s progress outside of tutoring.