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Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What type of reading intervention method(s) do you use to help struggling readers?
Answer: I use Sounds in Syllables, a program based on the Orton-Gillingham approach. It is very comprehensive and beneficial for all students with dyslexia, especially those with moderate to severe dyslexia. I begin with an assessment to pinpoint areas of strength and weakness of the student, so the lessons can be individualized according to their needs. 
Question: How long are the sessions and how often should my child have sessions?
Answer: Sessions are 60 minutes, and students have sessions at least 3 times per week and up to 5 times per week. All sessions are virtual at this time.   
Question: How long will it take my child to complete the Sounds in Syllables program and how many levels are there?
Answer: There are 5 levels, and the amount of time it takes to complete each level depends on the child and how many days per week they have sessions. The first level is the longest as it builds the foundational skills so more advanced reading skills can be acquired at higher levels. Some students have completed all 5 levels in one year, and some take 2-3 years. Some students are able to be successful readers by completing only the first 3 levels. 
Question: How can my child learn cursive virtually? He has dysgraphia and has extreme difficulty with all writing.
Answer: I have worked with students with severe dyslexia and dysgraphia, and I did not have any difficulty teaching them how to write in cursive. Furthermore, the student did not have any issues learning cursive virtually. In fact, parents were thrilled to see their child write in cursive and do it so well, even with dysgraphia. 
Question: What parts of language are included in your sessions?
Answer: Lessons move at a steady pace and cover a variety of language skills, such as auditory and visual exercises of letter-sound correspondences, reading/phonics, spelling, and handwriting. Also, the student's initial assessment is used to customize lessons. For example, if the student has weak phonemic awareness, that will be emphasized during Level 1. Other areas of instruction depend on the student's needs and can include the calendar (writing numbers, sequencing), the alphabet, verbal expression, grammar and written expression, review concepts, directionality, and reading aloud to the student. Verbal expression can include explicit instruction of comprehension strategies, analogies, figurative vs. literal language, text structures, story grammar, vocabulary, morphology, etc.
Question: Does Sounds in Syllables have a scope and sequence?
Answer: Yes, it does. I would be happy to share it with you. Just contact me via the red button at the bottom of this page. 
Question: Do you have parent references?
Answer: Absolutely! I would be happy to share with you. Just contact me via the share button at the top of this page. 
Question: Do you do group sessions?
Answer: No, all sessions are 1-1. 
Question: What supplies will my student need for your sessions?
Answer: I send students a supply kit that includes their books, alphabet arc and letters, a whiteboard, and learning manipulatives, such as felts. There is no separate charge for these items. Students just need pencils, dry-erase markers, and a strong internet connection. 
*If the student uses a desktop computer, a document camera is necessary so I can see them write in real time. This makes a difference in my ability to help with letter formation and spelling. 
*Most laptops are suitable for virtual sessions. The student should know how to move the screen up and down so their writing or reading book is visible. 
*Chromebooks and iPads are not compatible. 
Question: Does my child need headphones for virtual sessions?
Answer: I have had one student prefer to use headphones. Most students do not wear headphones.
Question: Are virtual sessions as effective as in person?
Answer: Virtual instruction has come a long way, and they are very effective if the instructor is qualified and virtual instruction suits the child. My students have made excellent progress with virtual therapy, and their parents and teachers have seen noticeable improvements. For a young student (2nd grade and younger) or a student with a complex learning profile, in-person may be a better fit, and this is often able to be determined within the first few weeks of therapy. 
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