Summer reading programs for dyslexia are essential for preventing learning loss and helping students build stronger reading skills during the break from school. The key is choosing a reading program designed for students with dyslexia that uses research-based, multi-sensory methods for reading and writing development.

Why Summer is So Important for Students with Dyslexia

Students with dyslexia need consistent instruction throughout the year to maintain and develop their reading skills. Without this continuous learning, progress they made during the school year can quickly decline.

Over the summer, students with dyslexia often face:

• Diminished decoding and spelling skills
• Slower pace of reading
• Reduced self-esteem
• Increased frustration
• Reading avoidance

An effective summer reading program can prevent these challenges and help your child jump-start the school year on a positive note.

Explore the best summer reading programs for dyslexia in NYC and find the right fit for your child at https://eblcoaching.com/best-summer-tutoring-programs-in-nyc-for-kids-with-learning-disabilities/.

Who Should Participate in Summer Reading Programs for Dyslexia?

Students who should participate in a summer reading program include:

• Struggling readers
• Students with diagnosed dyslexia
• Students who are falling behind in school

What Works for Dyslexia: Evidence-Based Reading Instruction

Students with dyslexia typically need more than traditional tutoring or homework help. Not all summer reading programs for dyslexia use evidence-based methods. Students with dyslexia need the following:

1.Orton Gillingham Instruction

An ideal summer reading program for your child should include structured literacy instruction, particularly using the Orton Gillingham approach.

This approach is:

• Explicit – students are directly taught letter names, sounds, and rules
• Sequential and cumulative – concepts build upon one another in a step-by-step manner
• Multi-sensory – the visual, auditory, and tactile/kinesthetic modalities are integrated into teaching
• Research-based – research indicates that children with dyslexia learn best with a multi-sensory approach

Structured literacy programs, including Orton Gillingham summer tutoring, are among the most effective summer reading programs for dyslexia. Finding a tutoring program that uses this type of systematic, hands-on, research-based approach can help your child excel academically.

2. Multi-sensory Instruction

Reading methodologies that engage multiple senses simultaneously are far more effective than passive learning, which may include only using workbooks or providing homework help.

Examples of multi-sensory instruction include:

• Tracing letters in colored sand or shaving cream
• Saying letter formations aloud when writing letters
• Using tools like magnetic tiles to create words
• Using audio-visual flash cards with key pictures

This type of instruction helps students learn and retain new concepts for the long run.

3. One-on-One Tutoring or Small Group Instruction

Students with dyslexia typically need highly individualized instruction to make the most progress. One-on-one tutoring tends to be most impactful.

Effective reading programs for dyslexia should:

• Provide an initial assessment to gauge the student’s strengths and weaknesses
• Address specific skill gaps, such as decoding, reading fluency, or reading comprehension
• Adjust the pacing of lessons based on student performance
• Provide direct feedback

Group programs often lack the ability to truly individualize the instruction to the needs of each student.

4. Consistency and Intensity

When a child has dyslexia, they typically need intensive reading remediation to develop core skills. Once-per-week sessions are usually not enough.

Effective summer reading programs often include multiple sessions per week with practice in between sessions to provide optimal instruction for students with dyslexia. Summer is an ideal time to do more frequent tutoring and accelerate a student’s progress.

5. Specialized Instructors

Some tutors may specialize in math, science, or other subjects, but not all of them specialize in helping students with dyslexia.

When finding the right summer reading tutor for your child, look for instructors who:

• Specialize in Orton Gillingham tutoring
• Provide initial assessments to gauge students’ needs
• Understand how to target reading gaps
• Can adjust the pace of instruction based on how your child progresses

Specialized instructors can make a significant difference in your child’s performance.

What Doesn’t Work for Dyslexia 

Many reading programs exist, but not all of them are designed to meet the needs of students with dyslexia.

When looking for a dyslexia tutoring program for your child, be wary of:

• General reading programs that aren’t research-based
• One-size-fits-all approaches to tutoring
• Large classroom-style programs
• Apps or independent programs that lack direct instruction
• Inconsistent and infrequent tutoring schedules

These reading programs may keep children engaged, but they are not ideal for students with dyslexia who have specialized learning needs.

What to Look for in a Summer Reading Program

When choosing a summer reading program for your child, ask the following questions:

• Does the tutoring program integrate Orton Gillingham instruction?
• Will my child receive an initial assessment to gauge their needs?
• Is one-on-one tutoring offered?
• How often will sessions take place?
• Which specific reading skills will be addressed?

Seeking answers to these questions will help you identify the right summer reading program for your child.

Learn what to look for in a reading specialist for dyslexia in NYC before choosing a program at https://eblcoaching.com/what-to-look-for-in-a-reading-specialist-in-nyc/.

Best Summer Reading Programs for Dyslexia

The best summer reading programs for dyslexia include key components, such as:

• Orton Gillingham instruction
• Initial assessments to gauge areas of need
• One-on-one tutoring
• In-home or online options
• Intensive scheduling availability

Summer Reading Programs for Dyslexia in NYC

Families searching for summer reading programs for dyslexia in New York City may be exploring a wide variety of options, but not all programs provide the structured, individualized tutoring that students with dyslexia need.

In an academically rigorous environment like New York City, many students with dyslexia benefit from consistent, one-on-one tutoring during the summer to avoid regression and build important reading skills before the new school year begins.

Throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Westchester, and New Jersey, many parents are seeking:

• Orton Gillingham tutoring
• One-on-one, individualized instruction
• Intensive summer tutoring programs
• Experienced tutors who understand dyslexia

While group programs and general enrichment camps are available throughout NYC, they often do not provide the level of support and personalization that students with dyslexia need for meaningful progress in reading.

How EBL Coaching Helps Students with Dyslexia During the Summer

At EBL Coaching, our summer reading programs are designed for students with dyslexia and learning challenges.

In these tutoring sessions, students receive:

• Initial assessments to gauge their strengths and weaknesses
• Individualized, one-on-one tutoring tailored to their needs
• Evidence-based, multi-sensory teaching methods
• Targeted support in reading, spelling, writing, math, and executive functioning skills
• In-home and virtual tutoring options
• Flexible scheduling

The goal over the summer is not just to maintain previously learned skills but to make meaningful progress and start the new school year strong. Contact us today to see how we can help your child thrive with our individualized summer tutoring programs.

Closing Thoughts

Finding the right summer reading program for your child with dyslexia can make a significant difference in their academic performance.

With systematic, research-based, one-on-one tutoring, your child can:

• Strengthen their decoding, reading fluency, and comprehension skills
• Develop stronger spelling and writing skills
• Build self-confidence
• Reduce frustration and increase motivation

Choosing the right summer reading program for dyslexia can make a lasting difference in your child’s academic success.

FAQs About Summer Reading Programs for Dyslexia 

How long should a summer reading program last?
Summer reading programs should be customized to your child’s needs. Your child should first receive an initial assessment. Then, an individualized summer reading program should be created to address their specific needs.

Can my child with dyslexia make a lot of reading progress over the summer?
Yes, absolutely! With one-on-one Orton Gillingham tutoring and a multi-sensory approach, your child can make significant reading progress over the summer:

Can online tutoring be effective for dyslexia?
Yes, online tutoring can be effective for students with dyslexia, as long as research-based, multi-sensory techniques are used and instruction is consistent throughout the summer.

Learn how online tutoring for dyslexia can support your child’s reading at https://eblcoaching.com/can-virtual-tutoring-help-my-child/.

When should my child with dyslexia begin receiving reading remediation?
Your child should receive reading remediation as soon as you notice struggles. Early intervention can make an immense difference in your child’s performance and can help prevent future challenges down the road.

Learn more about dyslexia and evidence-based reading instruction from the International Dyslexia Association at International Dyslexia Association – …until everyone can read!

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, has helped thousands of students with dyslexia build their reading skills over the past twenty years. She is the author of the Strategies for Study Success student workbook series, the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook program, and the Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math student workbook series. She speaks nationally at educational conferences and frequently appears on podcasts as an educational expert. She has also been featured in publications including Newsweek, Autism Advocate Parenting Magazine, Epoch Times, and Macaroni Kids.

The post Summer Reading Programs for Dyslexia: What Actually Works? appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Summer is an ideal time to begin Orton Gillingham summer tutoring in New York City and New Jersey, when students can focus on building core reading skills without the pressure of the school year. Students can receive intensive summer reading tutoring and consistent structured literacy instruction, helping them make significant progress during the summer.

Families throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, as well as in New Jersey communities, often use the summer months to focus on structured reading intervention, including Orton Gillingham tutoring, to help their child build important skills and prevent learning loss.

What Is Orton Gillingham Tutoring?

The Orton Gillingham approach is a research-based, multi-sensory methodology designed to help students develop stronger reading and spelling skills. It was originally created for students with dyslexia, but all students who struggle with reading and writing can benefit from this approach.

Orton Gillingham is a highly effective reading tutoring method because it:

• Follows a systematic scope and sequence
• Integrates multi-sensory tools, such as colored sand, magnetic tiles, and shaving cream
• Teaches students how to decode and spell words in a direct, sequential way
• Moves from individual letters and sounds to words containing blends, consonant digraphs, vowel digraphs, silent e patterns, and multi-syllabic patterns
• Using engaging, hands-on techniques
• Is individualized to the levels of each student

Orton Gillingham tutoring is particularly effective for students with language-based learning disabilities like dyslexia, but this approach can help any child who needs reading support.

Learn more about this approach in our guide to What Is Orton-Gillingham Tutoring? Multi-Sensory, Structured Help at What Is Orton-Gillingham Tutoring? Multi-Sensory, Structured Help | EBL Coaching.

Why Summer Is the Best Time for Reading Intervention for Struggling Readers

Summer is an ideal time for reading intervention and dyslexia tutoring, especially through an Orton Gillingham summer program, for several key reasons:

1. Fewer Academic Constraints

During the school year, students tend to have a lot on their plate – sports, dance, clubs, homework, tests, quizzes, and so much more. This can make it hard to find time for consistent intensive reading remediation.

During the summer, however, students often find that they have:

• Less homework
• Reduced stress
• Fewer scheduling constraints
• More time and energy for learning

This time of year allows students to fully engage in Orton Gillingham tutoring sessions with fewer distractions and time constraints.

2. Opportunity for Intensive, Consistent Reading Remediation

Students who have a learning disability or struggle with reading need consistency and repetition when learning new concepts, both of which can be hard to achieve during the school year.

During the summer, students may be available for:

• More frequent weekly tutoring sessions
• Longer, more targeted lessons
• More time spent on practice and repetition
• Activities that reinforce lessons in between tutoring sessions

Frequent, intensive summer reading tutoring programs can accelerate progress far more quickly than during the school year, especially for students receiving Orton Gillingham instruction.

3. Preventing the Summer Slide

Many students experience summer learning loss in reading, often referred to as the “summer slide,” which can significantly impact struggling readers. For students with learning challenges, this loss can be even greater.

Orton Gillingham summer tutoring can help students:

• Prevent the summer slide
• Maintain skills learned during the school year
• Strengthen foundational reading skills
• Fill in learning gaps
• Prevent academic regression
• Build self-confidence and motivation

Instead of watching your child experience the dreaded summer slide and fall behind, help them move ahead and start the new school year with greater confidence with summer Orton Gillingham tutoring.

4. Build Self-Confidence

Many students watch their peers read much more advanced books than they can and feel poorly about their abilities. This can be discouraging for students who struggle with reading and can take a toll on their self-esteem.

A structured Orton Gillingham summer tutoring program provides an empowering environment where students can build their reading skills and confidence. Some advantages of summer Orton Gillingham instruction include:

• Less peer comparison
• Reduced anxiety
• Individualized, one-on-one support
• Opportunity to build skills and motivation

As your child’s reading skills improve, their self-confidence will likely improve as well, helping them feel better about their skills and abilities. This is especially important for students in academically competitive areas like New York City, where reading challenges can affect their performance across various subjects.

5. Customized Tutoring at Your Child’s Pace

One of the greatest advantages of Orton Gillingham tutoring is that it is truly individualized to the needs of each student.

During summer Orton Gillingham tutoring sessions, tutors can:

• Identify specific skills challenges through an initial assessment
• Create an individualized Orton Gillingham tutoring plan
• Move at your child’s pace
• Adjust the pace of lessons based on your child’s progress
• Focus on the specific skills your child needs help with

This customized approach to learning leads to more efficient instruction and greater progress.

Read more about who benefits from Orton Gillingham tutoring in NYC at Who Benefits from Orton Gillingham Tutoring? – EBL Coaching.

What Does an Orton Gillingham Summer Tutoring Program Include?

High-quality Orton Gillingham tutoring in New York City and New Jersey should always be individualized to meet each student’s specific reading and spelling needs. However, most Orton Gillingham tutoring lessons include:

• An initial assessment to identify your child’s strengths and weaknesses
• Systematic, sequential lessons in decoding and spelling
• Multi-sensory instruction, including integrating visual, auditory, and tactile/kinesthetic tools
• Modified pace of instruction based on how your child responds

Many parents choose intensive summer Orton Gillingham tutoring for their child to take advantage of the summer and maximize progress.

How Much Progress Can Students Make with Summer Reading Tutoring?

Every child has unique needs and starts at different levels, so their rate of progress can vary. However, consistent summer reading tutoring in NYC and NJ using the Orton Gillingham can lead to:

• Understanding sound-letter relationships
• Improved decoding and reading fluency skills
• Stronger spelling skills
• Reduced fatigue from reading
• Increased confidence and motivation

For some students, summer is the time when reading “clicks” and significant improvement is seen.

How to Choose the Right Orton Gillingham Tutor

Not all reading tutors in New York City or New Jersey offer the same level of expertise. It’s important that you find the right Orton Gillingham tutor for your child. Look for a tutor who has:

• Training in the Orton Gillingham approach
• Experience working with dyslexia and language-based learning disabilities
• Expertise in creating individualized Orton Gillingham tutoring plans
• The ability to provide one-on-one instruction
• Flexible summer scheduling options

If you’re searching locally, explore our guide on what to look for in a reading specialist in NYC at What to Look for in a Reading Specialist in NYC- EBL Coaching.

Summer Reading Tutoring in NYC and NJ

For students in New York City and New Jersey, summer is an ideal time to receive targeted reading support. With fewer academic demands and more flexible schedules, your child can benefit from consistent, individualized instruction that is often challenging to incorporate during the school year.

Summer reading tutoring programs in NYC and NJ are designed to provide intensive, individualized tutoring to students who struggle with reading, including those with dyslexia and other language-based learning challenges. Many families seek Orton Gillingham summer tutoring for their child because of its structured, research-based, multi-sensory approach, which helps students build core skills in decoding, spelling, and reading fluency.

In areas including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and nearby New Jersey communities, parents often look for programs that offer:

• One-on-one tutoring tailored to their child’s needs
• Flexible summer scheduling options
• Experienced tutors trained in structured literacy approaches
• Specialized instruction for dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning challenges
• In-person and virtual tutoring options

Because summer often allows for more frequent sessions, students can make significant progress in a relatively short time. Whether your child needs to catch up on their reading skills, build stronger reading foundations, or prevent academic regression, a summer reading tutoring program can help them have a much more successful school year.

For many students in NYC and NJ, reading intervention during the summer is one of the most effective ways to help your child build confidence and long-term academic skills.

A Trusted Option: EBL Coaching

If you’re looking for Orton Gillingham summer tutoring in New York City or New Jersey, EBL Coaching offers a highly individualized, research-based approach to reading intervention.

At EBL Coaching, we specialize in:

• One-on-one Orton Gillingham tutoring
• Initial assessments prior to the start of tutoring
• Individualized tutoring plans based on your child’s unique needs
• Research-based, multi-sensory approach
• Dyslexia tutoring in NYC and NJ
• ADHD coaching in Manhattan and NJ
• Reading remediation in NYC and NJ
• Orton Gillingham tutoring in Manhattan and NJ
• In-person and virtual Orton Gillingham sessions

Our emphasis on individualized one-on-one instruction and multi-sensory teaching helps students who struggle with reading, especially during the summer when we can provide more intensive reading remediation. Contact us to see how we can hep your child improve their reading skills through our Orton Gillingham summer tutoring programs.

Closing Thoughts

Summer is a time for rest and relaxation, but it is also a time when students often experience academic skills regression. For many students, especially those with learning disabilities, it is an ideal time for more intensive reading tutoring.

With Orton Gillingham summer tutoring or a structured dyslexia summer program, your child can:

• Improve their decoding, spelling, reading fluency, and reading comprehension skills
• Fill in learning gaps
• Develop stronger reading foundations
• Strengthen their self-confidence

Instead of worrying about the summer slide, use this season to help your child enhance their skills and start the new school year strong.

FAQs about Summer Orton Gillingham tutoring 

How often should my child receive Orton Gillingham tutoring in NYC or NJ during the summer?
The frequency of your child’s Orton Gillingham summer tutoring should vary based on their individual needs and availability. Some students may only need 1-2 sessions per week but other students, especially those with learning disabilities, may benefit from more frequent sessions over the summer.

Is summer long enough to see improvement from Orton Gillingham tutoring?
Yes, absolutely! Summer is an ideal time for more intensive Orton Gillingham tutoring. With consistent sessions, many children show significant improvement during the summer.

Is online Orton Gillingham tutoring effective for summer reading intervention?
Yes! Orton Gillingham tutoring can be provided efficiently online. Students can still receive interactive, multi-sensory support through online tutoring if they are working with the right tutor who provides consistent support to them.

Learn more about the benefits of virtual tutoring for students with reading challenges at Can Virtual Tutoring Help My Child?.

Is Orton Gillingham tutoring only for students with dyslexia?
No, absolutely not. While Orton Gillingham was originally designed for students with dyslexia, it can help any student who is struggling with reading or spelling. It is a highly effective, research-based approach to teaching reading and spelling.

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, has helped thousands of students with specialized learning needs build their reading skills with Orton Gillingham tutoring over the past twenty years. She is the author of the Strategies do Study Success student workbook series, the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook program, and the Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math student workbook series. She speaks nationally at educational conferences and frequently appears on podcasts as an educational expert.

The post Orton Gillingham Summer Tutoring: Why Summer Is the Best Time for Reading Intervention appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Mother’s Day is a festive day filled with French toast, pancakes, spring attire, and special time spent with mom. Yet it can also be a great time for learning! Kids with ADHD can enjoy short, engaging activities that integrate learning and will make their mom happy. The key is keeping the activities hands-on, structured, low pressure, and fun!  Try some of the ideas detailed below, ideally with help from someone who isn’t mom.

“Why I Love Mom” Sheet

Kids with ADHD can strengthen their writing skills with a “Why I Love Mom” fill-in-the blank sheet that moms will certainly love! For this activity, create a sheet that says “All About My Mom” at the top, and include writing prompts with spaces for your child to fill in, like the ones below:

“My mom is so ____”.

“My mom’s favorite color is _____”.

“My mom’s favorite food is _____”.

“My mom cooks the best _____”.

“My mom is really good at ____”.

“My mom always says ____”.

“My mom would win a gold medal in ____”.

“My mom and I like to _____”.

“My mom really loves _____”.

“I love my mom because_____”.

If your child struggles with writing, have them dictate their answers to you and you write them down. Using this approach will still build language and communication skills!

Mother’s Day Scavenger Hunt

A little movement is great for kids with ADHD, and everyone in the family will have fun with this Mother’s Day scavenger hunt. Have your child write 6-8 clues on notecards and put them around your home (you can help them write the clues if needed). The final clue should end with a special surprise, like a homemade brunch! The clues might look something like:

1. If you’re in a breakfast mood, go here to find some food!
2. For your second clue, put these on before your shoe.
3. If you want your teeth to be clean, go to this room to brush, especially if you ate a jellybean!
4. Next is the place where you lay your head. Go look under your bed!
5. Another clue must be told. Look where we keep our yogurt and milk cold.
6. Then turn around and you will see a special treat made by me!

Mom will love these silly clues and the whole family will have fun with this scavenger hunt.

Make a meal!

Making a special meal for mom is a great way to reinforce reading, writing, and math skills. Have your child come up with ideas for a special meal they want to make. They might decide to make pancakes, eggs, and blueberry muffins. Once they have decided on the items, they should look online or in cookbooks to find the recipes for the foods they want to make. Next, they should write down a list of ingredients they need to buy from the grocery store.

When it’s time to start cooking, they should work on making the menu items, one at a time, and set out the ingredients they need to make each item. They should follow each recipe step-by-step (a great way to work on sequencing), measuring out each ingredient and following the recipe instructions until all items are made. They should then set the table with forks, knives, cups, and all the items they made for their special meal. Mom is sure to love it!

Decorate a Dessert

Another fun cooking-related activity that kids with ADHD can do for Mother’s Day is to set up a “decorate a dessert” station. Have your child decide which dessert they want to decorate. They might choose cupcakes, cookies, brownies, or another dessert they like. They should also decide which toppings to include and make a list of ingredients they need to buy from the supermarket for this activity.  They can get creative with the toppings and include ones like sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, crushed Oreos, marshmallows, gummy bears, shredded coconut – you name it! Fresh fruit, like bananas or raspberries, can work too, along with drizzles, like chocolate or caramel syrup.

When your child is ready to set up the station, they should put each of the toppings in small bowls next to the desserts and have fun decorating them with mom!

Plan the Perfect Day for Mom – Budget Game 

A great way for kids with ADHD to build math skills on Mother’s Day is with a “plan the perfect day for mom” budget game.

To play this game, give your child a budget for the day, like $30. Have them make a list of everything they want to do for mom and come up with an approximate price for each item, which they should include on their list. For example, their list might look like:

Breakfast in bed: $10

Special cake: $8

Movie rental: $3

Flowers: $7

After they create their list with corresponding prices, have them write the total at the bottom. Then ask your child whether their total is above or below the budget and, if so, by how much.

Mother’s Day is a special time to spend with mom, and it’s also a great day to have fun while learning. Try these activities at home and this Mother’s Day will be one mom never forgets!

EBL Coaching specializes in one-on-one in person and virtual tutoring for students in grades pre-K-12 with specialized learning needs. They use research-based, multi-sensory techniques, including the Orton Gillingham method, to develop students’ reading, writing, math, note taking, test taking, and executive functioning skills. Each student is evaluated and then receives an individualized learning plan to address their specific academic needs. Learn more at http://www.eblcoaching.com/. Dr. Emily Levy, Founder & Director, is happy to hear from anyone who is in need for their child. You may reach her thru her website, and mention you heard of her thru MotherhoodLater.

The post Mother’s Day Activities for Kids with ADHD appeared first on EBL Coaching.

This guide will explain what the Orton Gillingham approach is, who benefits from this method, and how to find the best Orton Gillingham tutor in NJ.

What is Orton Gillingham?

Orton Gillingham is a research-based, multi-sensory approach that helps students develop stronger reading and spelling skills. While it was originally designed for students with dyslexia and language-based learning disabilities, any student struggling with reading can benefit from this approach.

Unlike traditional reading tutoring, Orton Gillingham is

• Multi-sensory – it integrates the visual, auditory, and tactile/kinesthetic modalities
• Structured and systematic – Orton Gillingham lessons are taught in a step-by-step order, and previously taught concepts are integrated into new lessons
• Diagnostic and prescriptive – lessons are individualized based on the needs of each student
• Explicit – Orton Gillingham sounds and rules are directly taught to students

The Orton Gillingham method is considered to be one of the most effective approaches for students with reading challenges, including dyslexia.

Who benefits from Orton Gillingham tutoring in NJ?

Orton Gillingham tutoring can help any student who struggles with reading, but it is an optimal approach for students who:

• Have a dyslexia diagnosis
• Struggle to decode, or sound out, words
• Have challenges spelling words accurately
• Struggle to read fluently
• Feel frustrated when reading or avoid reading

Parents in New Jersey often start looking for Orton Gillingham tutoring when they notice their child is struggling with reading, is feeling frustrated, or is losing self-confidence.

Read more about who benefits from Orton Gillingham tutoring at Who Benefits from Orton Gillingham Tutoring?

Why Orton Gillingham works

Orton Gillingham works because it is structured, systematic, and teaches struggling learners in a way that works for them, using an easy-to-follow, step-by-step approach. Rather than looking at the beginning sound and “guessing” at a word or otherwise memorizing words, with Orton Gillingham tutoring, students learn:

• The names of each letter and its corresponding sound
• The connection between sounds and letters
• Specific word patterns
• Spelling rules
• Tools for decoding words they haven’t seen before

Orton Gillingham tutoring sessions are hands-on and engaging, helping students not only develop their reading and spelling skills, but retain what they learn. Ultimately, this approach leads to improved decoding, spelling, reading fluency, and reading comprehension skills.

What to look for in an Orton Gillingham tutor in NJ

When seeking an Orton Gillingham tutor in NJ, look for someone with the following:

1. Experience with learning disabilities and reading challenges 
A strong Orton Gillingham tutor has expertise in working with students who have learning disabilities, including dyslexia, as well as students with general reading challenges, and can adapt their tutoring based on how the student responds.

2. Creates a structured plan
When providing Orton Gillingham tutoring, a structured plan should be in place for the tutoring sessions. Students should receive an initial evaluation to determine their strengths and weaknesses and the specific aspects of reading they struggle with. Then a structured tutoring plan should be put in place, beginning with the student’s current level and progressing forward accordingly.

3. Provides individualized Instruction
Orton Gillingham lessons should always be tailored to the specific needs of each student. Some students may struggle to read and spell basic consonant-vowel-consonant (CVC) words, while others may have difficulty with more complex words containing consonant digraphs, vowel digraphs, or multi-syllabic words. An Orton Gillingham tutoring plan should always be in place for students and modified based on how the student responds.

4. Offers consistent tutoring sessions
It’s important that students who receive Orton Gillingham tutoring have consistent tutoring sessions on a regular basis. Orton Gillingham lessons build upon one another, and most students need consistent repetition in order to internalize new sounds and concepts. Reinforcement at home in between sessions is helpful as well.

5. Provides progress Updates
Parents should receive updates on how their child is progressing from the Orton Gillingham tutoring lessons. Some students show progress quickly, while others need more time and repetition to significantly improve their reading skills.

Orton Gillingham versus traditional reading tutoring

Traditional reading tutoring may involve individual unconnected lessons that vary from week to week or might focus simply on helping students complete their reading homework.

Orton Gillingham tutoring, on the other hand, focuses on core skills building, starting with foundational reading skills and then progressing upwards from there. The lessons build upon one another in a systematic way, helping students gain mastery of new sounds and concepts and feel more confident with their reading skills.

For students with dyslexia and language-based learning disabilities, this type of dyslexia reading tutoring is highly effective.

In-person versus virtual tutoring 

When seeking an Orton Gillingham tutor for your child, you may be looking at both in-home and virtual tutoring options. Both modalities can work for Orton Gillingham tutoring, based on your child’s needs and preferences.

While in-person tutoring offers face-to-face interactions and easily integrated multi-sensory tools, such as colored sand, magnetic tiles, and shaving cream, virtual tutoring has its advantages as well. Online tutoring generally offers more flexibility with scheduling and allows you to access specialized tutors who may not be available in your local geographic area.

How long does it take to see results from Orton Gillingham tutoring?

The rate at which students show progress from Orton Gillingham varies based on their unique levels and profile. Some students show progress very quickly, while others take longer to process and internalize new Orton Gillingham sounds and concepts.

In general, families might notice the following from Orton Gillingham tutoring:

• Increased reading confidence within the first month
• Improved decoding and spelling skills within the first 2-3 months
• Significant growth in reading and spelling with 6-12 months

These are just general estimates – some students may take less time to show progress, and others may take more time. The goal with this systematic, multi-sensory approach to tutoring is to create gains that will last for the long run.

Why NJ Parents choose Orton Gillingham tutoring 

Many parents are looking for the right support to help their child who is struggling with reading. They often choose Orton Gillingham tutoring in New Jersey because their child:

• Is not responding well to traditional classroom reading instruction
• Has dyslexia or another learning disability
• Is struggling to keep up with the pace of reading instruction in a large class and needs more individualized support
• Is showing challenges with foundational reading and spelling skills

OG tutoring provides students with individualized, highly effective instruction that can help them build their reading skills and feel confident and successful in school.

Concluding Thoughts

If your child is struggling with reading, don’t wait! The reading demands will only increase as students progress through school. Orton Gillingham tutoring in New Jersey can provide the individualized support your child needs to thrive academically.

If you are looking for an Orton Gillingham tutor in New Jersey or NYC, we can help! EBL Coaching specializes in providing one-on-one Orton Gillingham tutoring to students in their home, at our learning center, or virtually. Contact us now to see how we can help your child with our individualized Orton Gillingham tutoring programs.

Our New Jersey learning center is located at 50 East Palisade Avenue, Suite 201, Englewood, NJ 07631 and our NYC learning center is located at 17 East 89th Street, Suite 1D, New York, NY 10128.

We provide in-home Orton Gillingham tutoring throughout NYC and its surrounding areas, and we also provide in-home Orton Gillingham tutoring in Bergen County, dyslexia tutoring in Essex County, specialized reading tutoring in Hudson County, and Orton Gillingham tutoring in all surrounding areas in New Jersey.

Frequently Asked Questions about Orton Gillingham tutoring 

Is Orton Gillingham tutoring only for students with dyslexia?
No, absolutely not! While Orton Gillingham was originally designed for students with dyslexia, any student who is struggling with reading can benefit from this approach. It is systematic, multi-sensory, and highly effective at helping students build their reading and spelling skills.

When should my child start Orton Gillingham tutoring?
Your child should start Orton Gillingham tutoring as soon as you notice them struggling with reading. This could happen very early; some young children struggle to learn the names of the letters and their corresponding sounds, along with how to properly write each letter. Orton Gillingham tutoring can help students build these early foundational skills. This method can also help students who may be older and struggling with reading or spelling more complex words.

How often should my child receive Orton Gillingham tutoring?
The frequency that students receive Orton Gillingham tutoring varies based on their needs and levels. Some students need only a few sessions per week, while others need daily instruction. Each child should be evaluated to assess their specific needs before Orton Gillingham tutoring begins, and an individualized tutoring plan should be created.

Read more about Orton Gillingham tutoring in New Jersey at Orton Gillingham Tutoring in NJ for Students with Dyslexia

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, holds her Doctorate Degree in Education and her Master’s Degree in Special Education. She has helped thousands of students with dyslexia and reading challenges through Orton Gillingham tutoring for over twenty years. She is also the author of the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook series, used by students and schools nationwide.

The post Orton Gillingham Tutoring in NJ: What Parents Should Know appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Which academic delays can occur in kindergarten?

Academic delays in young children can show up in various forms. There are early signs that can help determine whether your child may benefit from extra support. Some common areas of challenge include:

• Recognizing the names of the letters and their corresponding sounds
• Writing letters
• Writing numbers
• Counting numbers
• Following multi-step directions
• Focusing during lessons

Each child progresses at a different pace, but if you notice your child struggling with any of these skills, take action. The academic demands of school will only continue to increase, and targeted support can make an immense difference.

Early signs your child may need kindergarten tutoring

You might be unsure about whether your child is following their own developmental track or is falling behind. While some children may grasp foundational academic skills with time, others might benefit from a tutor to help them build these skills.  Here are some signs that your child may benefit from tutoring:

• Difficulty learning letter names and sounds
• Trouble with rhyming
• Challenges with identifying beginning and ending sounds in words
• Avoiding reading and writing tasks
• Struggling with holding a pencil, cutting, and other fine motor skills
• Difficulty learning how to count and recognize numbers
• Trouble staying on task for long stretches of time

If your child is struggling with any of these tasks, tutoring can help them build these foundational skills and prevent future challenges.

Why kindergarten tutoring helps

Kindergarten is a time when many early academic skills are taught. Foundational reading, writing, and math skills are introduced, and students need to grasp these basic skills in order to learn more complex material. If your child is having trouble learning these skills, they may benefit from kindergarten tutoring in NYC.

Early tutoring can help them:

• Build foundational reading, writing, and math skills
• Fill in any learning gaps they may have
• Prevent these gaps from turning into larger challenges
• Build their self-confidence
• Help them enjoy learning
• Reduce frustration
• Set them up for future academic success

If your child is struggling in school or has a diagnosed learning disability, tutoring can make an immense difference in their academic trajectory and help them feel confident in school.

What does effective kindergarten tutoring in NYC look like?

Many tutors have their own niche specialties. Some tutors are high level math specialists; others might be pros at teaching paragraph and essay writing; and some specialize in working with young learners, including kindergarten students. When students are in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, the tutoring sessions should be fun and engaging, helping them enjoy the process while learning key skills. The ideal kindergarten tutoring approach should be:

1. Multi-Sensory

Young children tend to learn best when the visual, auditory, and tactile/kinesthetic modalities are integrated into teaching. Students should be able to see, hear, and touch new concepts being introduced during tutoring sessions. Multi-sensory tutoring lessons might include:

• Tracing letters in sand or shaving cream
• Creating words using magnetic tiles
• Tracing numbers on sandpaper
• Using manipulatives for math
• Integrating learning games to reinforce content covered

2. Structured and systematic

Most young children benefit from clear, step-by-step instructions that follow a systematic plan. This structured approach to teaching can help children effectively develop all core skills, including reading, writing, and math.

A sample structured reading tutoring lesson might include:

1. Teaching individual consonants and short vowels along with their corresponding sounds, including how to identify and write these letters.
2. Blending sounds together to form basic words, working in groups of four consonants and one short vowel, learning to read words such as at, in, fun, pat, & rug.
3. Moving on to reading and spelling words containing blends, consonant digraphs, vowel digraphs, and multi-syllabic word patterns.
4. Integrating oral sentences and story reading that reinforce concepts taught once the student is ready.

3. Individualized tutoring

Every child has unique learning needs, and tutoring sessions should be individualized to these needs. An effective tutoring program will:

• Start with an initial evaluation to assess your child’s current skill levels
• Create an individualized tutoring plan
• Tweak the lessons based on how your child responds

4. Engaging, fun, and positive

Kindergarten students should have fun during tutoring sessions and enjoy the learning process, helping them feel successful and motivated to learn. Tutoring sessions should be:

• Fun and engaging
• Positive and uplifting
• Self-esteem building
• Hands-on

One-on-one tutoring vs. group programs for kindergarten instruction

For pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students who have learning delays, one-on-one tutoring in NYC is generally the most effective option, allowing the instruction to truly be tailored to their needs. Students with dyslexia and other reading challenges may benefit from specialized Orton Gillingham tutoring.

Benefits of one-on-one tutoring:

• Tutoring sessions are individualized to your child’s specific needs
• Pacing is flexible based on how your child responds
• New lessons are introduced when your child is ready
• Previously taught concepts are reinforced as needed, based on your child’s grasp of the material
• Stronger connection with the tutor

Challenges with group programs:

• Less individualized instruction
• A specific curriculum is often followed that may not be best for your child
• Pace may not match your child’s needs
• Limited ability to tweak instruction based on your child’s response to lessons

At this young age, individualized instruction is particularly important, as this is a time when the foundations of learning are still being established. Without these foundations, students will likely continue to struggle in school and may develop learning gaps. Note that if your child has a diagnosed learning disability or ADHD, one-on-one tutoring is even more important.

Learn more about signs your child may be neurodivergent at Signs Your Child May Be Neurodivergent: ADHD, Dyslexia, And Autism

Which subjects can kindergarten tutoring in NYC help with?

While every child is different and should be assessed before tutoring sessions begin, kindergarten tutoring generally focuses on foundational skills building. These skills might include:

Pre-Reading & Reading 

• Letter recognition
• Sound recognition
• Phonemic awareness, including rhyming and identifying sounds in words
• Blending sounds to form basic words

Writing

• Writing letters properly, using top to bottom formation
• Fine motor skills
• Writing their name
• Blending sounds together to write basic words

Math

• Counting skills
• Number recognition
• Simple addition concepts
• Simple subtraction concepts
• Recognizing Patterns
• Sorting objects

Executive Functioning

• Staying focused on tasks
• Following directions
• Initiating tasks

How often should kindergarten tutoring occur?

The frequency at which a kindergarten student should receive tutoring varies based on their needs. Some students need one or two sessions per week, while others may need much more, depending on the severity of their needs. Summer tutoring is also a great way to focus on core skills building before the new school year begins. The key is receiving regular, consistent instruction.

Read more about summer tutoring at One-on-One Summer Tutoring Near Me: What to Look For

Supporting your child at home

When your child receives tutoring, it’s helpful to reinforce the concepts covered during tutoring sessions at home. Remember to keep the reinforcement work fun and engaging. Learning should be enjoyable for your child at this stage. While you should coordinate with your child’s tutor to reinforce what they are working on, some ideas for helping your child at home might include:

• Reading together every day and engaging your child in the book with questions about the characters, setting, and plot
• Practicing letter formations by having your child trace letters in salt or sand at the beach
• Playing learning games
• Encouraging drawing and writing to build fine motor skills

Remember to keep these activities positive, engaging, and encouraging.

Concluding thoughts

If your kindergarten child is showing signs of academic delays, one-on-one tutoring can make a lasting difference. With tutoring, your child will not only strengthen their academic skills but will likely become more confident and enjoy the process of learning.

Are you looking for kindergarten tutoring in NYC or NJ? We can help! EBL Coaching specializes in one-on-one tutoring for young children with academic delays using multi-sensory, research-based methods. In addition to kindergarten tutoring, we have expertise in ADHD coaching in NYC, dyslexia tutoring in NYC, learning disability instruction in NYC, and Orton Gillingham tutoring in NYC. Contact us today to see how we can help your child with individualized tutoring!

Our NYC learning center is located at 17 East 89th Street, Suite 1D, New York, NY 10128 and our New Jersey learning center is located at 50 East Palisade Avenue, Suite 201, Englewood, NJ 07631.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kindergarten Tutoring 

Is kindergarten too early for tutoring?
Absolutely not! Kindergarten is a time when academic foundations are still being established. If your child is having difficulty learning basis skills, tutoring can help them immensely, especially if the sessions are fun and engaging.

What type of tutor should I look for?
When looking for a tutor for your child, try to find someone with expertise in early childhood education. Also look for someone who will use a structured, multi-sensory approach to teaching, including tools such as colored sand, magnetic tiles, and shaving cream to help engage your child in the learning process.

Learn more about what to look for in a reading tutor in NYC at What to Look for in a Reading Specialist in NYC

Can kindergarten tutoring help if my child doesn’t have a diagnosis?
Yes! Many children benefit from tutoring even when they don’t have an official diagnosis. If you notice your child struggling, don’t wait! If they miss out on learning foundational academic skills, they will likely continue to struggle as they move through school without effective remediation.

How long does it take to see progress from tutoring?
Every child improves at a different rate. Some students progress quickly, while others take much longer. However, with the right tutor, frequency, and methodologies, many students show progress within the first month of tutoring.

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, has helped thousands of early childhood students improve their academic skills over the past twenty years. She is the author of the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham workbook series, the Flags and Stars multi-sensory math student workbook program, and the Strategies for Study Success study skills workbook series. She regularly writes educational articles for publications and frequently appears on podcasts as an educational expert.

The post Kindergarten Tutoring for Children with Academic Delays: What Parents Need to Know appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Summer is an opportune time to take advantage of, where the demands of school are reduced and more time can be spent on skills building. Some students need help with foundational skills; others have learning gaps that need to be filled; and students with learning disabilities or ADHD often struggle when the new school year starts if they don’t receive consistent instruction during the summer.

How can you select the best one-on-one summer tutoring program for your child? This summer tutoring guide will help you through the process.

Why one-on-one summer tutoring is important

Most students, especially those with academic challenges, need continued tutoring during the summer that is individualized to their needs. This type of tutoring has the following advantages:

• Individualized instruction that meets your child’s needs and levels
• Tutoring can be tailored to reading, writing, math, or executive functioning skills – or whichever skills your child needs help with
• Faster progress can be seen during the summer due to individualized learning and fewer school constraints
• Flexibility in tweaking the instruction along the way based on how the student responds to the tutoring

Students with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning disabilities tend to respond best to one-on-one, multi-sensory tutoring using evidence-based techniques.

Which qualities should I look for in a one-on-one summer tutor for my child?

When looking for a summer tutor for your child, try to find a tutoring program that provides the following:

1. An individualized tutoring plan

The best summer tutoring programs should begin with an initial assessment to gauge your child’s specific needs and levels. From there, an individual tutoring plan should be created to help your child develop their core academic skills.
Look for a tutoring program that:

• Conducts an initial evaluation before the tutoring begins
• Identifies specific skills that need to be developed, and, within that, which aspects of those skills need work. For example, a child who struggles with reading may need help with decoding, reading fluency, reading comprehension, or a combination of those skills
• Adjusts the tutoring plan based on how your child responds and the pace of their response

In general, try to avoid one-size-fits-all tutoring programs that provide the same instruction to all students.

2. Specialized expertise

If your child has a learning disability, ADHD, or academic skills challenges such as reading, writing, math, or executive functioning skills, it’s important that you find a tutor with expertise in these areas.
Effective summer tutoring programs typically include:

• Research-based reading instruction, including the Orton Gillingham approach
• Expertise in working with students who have learning and attentional challenges
• Structured, systematic methods where concepts build upon one another

This approach is especially important for students with:

• Dyslexia
• ADHD
• Autism
• Executive functioning challenges
• Language difficulties
• Other learning disabilities

Learn more about specialized dyslexia tutoring at Best Tutoring for Dyslexia: Orton Gillingham, Reading, and Writing Support for Children – EBL Coaching

3. Consistency and structure

Summer is often filled with unstructured days, including playing outside, riding bikes, and swimming, but learning over the summer should be structured and consistent. This structure and regularity will help your child maximize their gains.

4. Progress and feedback

An effective tutoring program should provide feedback to parents so they can reinforce what is covered during tutoring lessons in between sessions. When looking for a summer tutor for your child, ask about the type of feedback you will receive and how you can reinforce the concepts being taught at home.

5. Confidence building

Many students who struggle academically often have poor self-esteem. Summer tutoring can help students not only build their reading, writing, math, and executive functioning skills, but can also enhance their self-esteem.
Students who struggle academically during the school year will often:

• Avoid work they perceive as challenging
• Lose confidence in their abilities
• Feel discouraged
• Become easily frustrated

However, summer tutoring can turn all of this around! The right summer tutor can help students rebuild their:

• Self-confidence
• Motivation to excel in school
• Willingness to challenge themselves academically
• Excitement about learning

Building these skills now can help your child feel confident, motivated, and ready to take on the demands of the new school year.

6. In-person and virtual summer tutoring options

Some students prefer in-person tutoring, while others like the flexibility of virtual tutoring. When searching for “summer tutoring near me,” there are various factors to consider.
Many summer tutoring programs offer:

• In-person tutoring sessions
• Virtual tutoring sessions
• Hybrid tutoring options

The best modality for summer tutoring depends on your child’s needs, preferences, and availability.

7. Plan for the fall

A great summer tutor will help your child build academic skills over the summer and prepare them for the new school year in the fall. An executive functioning coach may help your child set up organizational systems and study spaces. A tutor focusing on academic remediation may work on filling in learning gaps over the summer and even previewing new material that will be introduced in the fall.
When searching for a summer tutor, look for a tutoring program that:

• Starts with an initial assessment to determine any learning gaps
• Previews important academic skills that will be introduced in the fall
• Provides recommendations for continued tutoring if needed, once the school year begins

Learn more about what to look for in a specialized reading tutor at What to Look for in a Reading Specialist in NYC- EBL Coaching

Final thoughts

Choosing the right summer tutoring program for your child can make an indelible impact on their learning and help set them up for success down the road.

The best summer tutoring programs offer:

• An initial assessment
• Individualized instruction
• Specialized tutoring based on your child’s needs, such as Orton Gillingham tutoring for students with dyslexia or reading challenges, or executive functioning coaching for students with ADHD
• Consistent sessions
• Parent feedback on methods and progress

At EBL Coaching, our one-on-one summer tutoring programs use research-based, multi-sensory techniques to help students with learning and attentional challenges start the new school year on a positive note.

If you’re searching for “one-on-one summer tutoring near me,” now is the time to plan your child’s summer. Contact us today to learn how we can help your child this summer with highly effective one-on-one tutoring.

Frequently Asked Questions About One-On-One Summer Tutoring

How many hours of summer tutoring does my child need?
The frequency and duration of summer tutoring varies based on your child’s needs and availability. Students with more profound academic challenges should receive a more intensive summer tutoring schedule, while those with less severe difficulties may not need as much tutoring. The key is providing consistent tutoring throughout the summer.

Which skills should my child focus on over the summer?
The skills covered during your child’s summer tutoring sessions should vary based on their specific needs. The tutoring program you select should begin with an initial assessment to gauge your child’s needs and then come up with an individualized tutoring plan using research-based, multi-sensory techniques. Some common focus areas are:

• Reading (including decoding, fluency, and comprehension)
• Writing (sentence structure, organization, grammar, and other aspects of writing)
• Math (computation and word problem solving)
• Executive functioning skills, including planning, time management, and organization

If your child struggles with reading, writing, math, or executive functioning skills, targeted intervention can help them excel.

Should my child receive tutoring in-person or online?
Both in-person and online tutoring can be effective options for your child. With in-person tutoring, students can receive face-to-face instruction and hands-on, multi-sensory techniques. However, online tutoring usually offers more flexibility with scheduling and access to specialized tutors who may not be available in your local area. Some families also choose a hybrid option, consisting of a mix of in-person and online tutoring,

When should I start looking for summer tutoring?
The sooner you can start looking for a summer tutor for your child, the better. Many tutors fill up their summer schedules quickly, especially those who specialize in working with students who have attentional and learning challenges.

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, holds her Doctorate Degree in Education and her Master’s Degree in Special Education. She has been helping students, including those with specialized learning needs, through summer tutoring for over twenty years. Dr. Levy is also the author of the Strategies for Study Success student workbook program, the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook series, and the Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math student workbook program.

The post One-on-One Summer Tutoring Near Me: What to Look For appeared first on EBL Coaching.

This winter has been filled with lots of snow and time off school for many parts of the country. Some kids may sit in front of a device or lounge in bed on these chilly days. Take advantage of snow days by helping your child strengthen their reading, writing, and math skills with the ideas detailed below.

Reading

To help your child develop their reading skills, try finding a snow-themed article from a newspaper or online source. This article could be a weather report on the anticipated snowfall, an article about snowfall affecting businesses, or a passage about post-snow hazards – really anything related to snow can work. Teach your child that there are three elements they should look for when reading: the topic, main idea, and important details. Have them take out blue, green, and yellow highlighters and explain to them that they will highlight each of these elements in a different color. A topic is typically one, two, or three words describing the passage, like snow, winter, or hot cocoa. They should highlight the topic in blue. The main idea is what the author is saying about the topic. For example, if the topic is snow, the main idea might be: one of the greatest snowfalls in recent history. They should highlight the main idea in green. Finally, they should look for important details describing the main idea, and highlight them in yellow.

Have your child read the passage first, then go back and highlight the topic, main idea, and important details. Next, ask them inference questions about the passage, like, “What do you think will happen after the snowstorm?” or “How do you think most people will prepare for the storm?” They can either tell you their response orally and you can have a discussion about it, or they can write their response in the form of a paragraph on a separate sheet of paper or on a computer.

Writing

Help your child build stronger writing skills during a snow day! Teach them the structure of a simple paragraph, which is comprised of a topic sentence, three detail sentences, and a conclusion sentence. Explain that when they write, they should start by brainstorming, then write, and finally self-check their work. Give them a topic, like: should schools be canceled tomorrow? Have them start by brainstorming their ideas and include three details on why school should be canceled (if that is their stance). For example, they might use web bubbles to write: safety, time with family, outdoor exercise. Then they should work on writing their paragraph using the information from their brainstorm webs. Their topic sentence should introduce their stance, like: School should be canceled tomorrow due to the snowstorm. Then they should write their detail sentences, ideally using transition words. For example, they might write: First, it likely won’t be safe to drive on the roads. Next, a snow day would allow me to spend quality time with my family, baking or reading together. Finally, I can get some exercise if I play outside in the snow. For the last sentence, they can wrap up their ideas with a sentence like: Since we will be getting a lot of snow, I feel strongly that schools should be closed. As a last step, have your child self-check their writing using the COPS checklist, which stands for capitalization, organization, punctuation, spelling.

Math

To build your child’s math skills during a snow day, try making snow-day word problems! Create problems like:

Hot chocolate costs $1 per packet. If there are four members in a family, how much will it cost for everyone to have a cup of hot chocolate?

or

Two inches of snow will likely fall each hour for four hours. At this pace, how much snow will we get?

When solving these math problems, teach your child to circle the key words, highlight the relevant numbers, then break down the problem into four steps. First, they should write down the relevant numbers. Next, they should choose which operation to use. Then they should write the number sentence and solve the problem. Finally, they should write their answer as a full sentence, using proper capitalization and punctuation.

Don’t let snow days stop your child from learning! Have fun with these activities, while still building your child’s reading, writing, and math skills.

EBL Coaching specializes in one-on-one in person and virtual tutoring for students in grades pre-K-12 with specialized learning needs. They use research-based, multi-sensory techniques, including the Orton Gillingham method, to develop students’ reading, writing, math, note taking, test taking, and executive functioning skills. Each student is evaluated and then receives an individualized learning plan to address their specific academic needs. Learn more at http://www.eblcoaching.com/.

Dr. Emily Levy, Founder & Director, is happy to hear from anyone who is in need for their child. You may reach her through her website, and mention you heard of her through MotherhoodLater.

The post Snow Day Activities That Build Reading, Writing & Math Skills appeared first on EBL Coaching.

The holidays are filled with festivities, treats, and loads of family time. However, the break from school is also a time when kids tend to do little if any academic work. As a result, the shift back to school in January can be a tough one for many students. Help your child have a successful transition back to school with the ideas detailed below.

Re-set routines

Before the holidays, your child may have finally settled on their school routine: each morning they woke up, got dressed, packed their backpack, ate breakfast, then came home from school and completed their schoolwork on a regular basis. Yet during the holidays, routines and schedules often go awry and your child may need some routine re-setting before school starts again. To help them, reset routines gradually. If they went to bed very late during holiday time, start setting their bedtime 15-20 minutes earlier each day for four or five days before school starts. You may want to also create checklists to remind them of their morning and afternoon routines before school begins. For example, a morning chart might include waking up at a certain time, brushing their teeth, eating breakfast, and packing their backpack. An afternoon checklist might include unpacking their backpack, having a snack, completing their homework, putting their finished homework in their backpack or turning it in online, eating dinner, and getting ready for bed. You might want to also try limiting screen time before school starts to help set the stage for a focused, organized return to school.

Academic activities during break

Your child may become accustomed to lazy, school-free days during the holiday break. To help them transition back into school-mode, start to integrate academic activities before school starts. For example, read with your child for 20 minutes each night and discuss the plot, characters, and setting with them. Ask them to create predictions about what they think might happen next or make inferences about certain events in the story to help engage them in the book. Older children can read independently for 20 minutes each night but ask them similar questions about their book even if you aren’t reading it with them, to make sure they fully comprehend the material. You can also do math exercises when cooking or grocery shopping with them, or have them write in a journal about their favorite activities during the holiday break. The more academic activities you can integrate now, the better!

Discuss expectations

Your child may be nervous about returning to school and may face similar jitters that they felt before the new school year started. Talk through these feelings with them. Are they nervous about their workload? Anxious about waking up early again? Worried about friendship issues? Whatever the issue is, be there for them – listen to their worries and help them come up with solutions to help ease these anxieties. You can also discuss any assignments or projects they may have coming up and help them create a plan for competing them in an organized fashion.

Executive functioning strategies

Your child likely wasn’t focusing on executive functioning strategies during the holiday break. They probably didn’t have to worry about organizing their school assignments, planning their after school activity schedule, or organizing their academic work. Help them re-integrate executive functioning strategies before school starts again. Make sure they have a dedicated homework space where they will complete their assignments each day, filled with all necessary supplies. Discuss with them what time they will work on their homework daily after school and keep that time consistent. Help them set up an assignment book, especially if they started using one at the start of the school year but then used it less and less in the fall. If they have lengthy homework assignments to complete, help them break the assignments into steps and put each step into their assignment book. For time management, have them predict how long they think each assignment will take to complete, then compare it to the actual time it takes. The more systematic executive functioning strategies you can integrate, the better, and if your child continues to struggle with these skills, executive functioning coaching can help them tremendously.

The holiday break should be a fun-filled time that all kids enjoy. Yet the transition back to school can be a tough one. Try using these ideas at home with your child to help them start the new year on a positive, organized, and successful note.

The post Help Your Child Transition Back to School After the Holidays appeared first on EBL Coaching.

As a parent, you might notice that your young child is struggling to learn the names of the letters and their corresponding sounds. They might have difficulty identifying and writing numbers. Other young children might have a quest for knowledge and yearn to learn new, more advanced academic skills. There is no official age when your child is too young for tutoring; it all depends on their individual needs and overall profile. The key to working with students as young as age 2 or 3 is to keep the sessions fun, engaging, and interactive. Tutoring can help your young child develop their academic skills in several areas.

Reading

When children are of preschool-age, the foundations of reading are being established. Learning key phonemic awareness skills can help strengthen their reading skills down the road. Tutoring can help your young child build phonemic awareness skills with targeted lessons, like the following:

The tutor might ask your child to name the first, middle, and final sounds they hear in the words mat, leg, pig, and so on. They might give the student two syllables, like “tall” and “est” and ask them what word is formed when they put the syllables together. Tutors can also work on rhyming skills by asking the student to name words that rhyme with mat, tug, pot, and other short words. From there, the tutor can work on teaching your child individual letter names using audio-visual flash cards with the letter on the front and a colorful key picture on the back. They might hold up the card to your child and say, “This is the letter a, like apple, it makes the sound /a/.” They can even take out a toy apple and ask your child to say the sound the word apple begins with. Later, once many sounds have been covered, the tutor can use magnetic tiles to work on blending sounds together to form words. The more multi-sensory and engaging the lessons are, the better!

Writing

Writing skills can also be developed at a young age. When introducing individual letter names, the tutor can also use a multi-sensory approach to teach students how to write each letter using specific formations. For example, for the lower case a, the tutor might trace the letter a in the sky, saying the formation out loud: around, up, and down. Then the child would trace the letter in the sky, first together with the tutor, then independently. Next, the tutor can take out a tray of colored sand and model tracing the letter in the sand. Then the student can do it on their own. When the child is ready, they can practice writing letters using dotted lines and eventually write them on paper without any assistance. A similar process can be used for learning to write numbers correctly: first in the sky, then in sand, then on paper.

Math 

Math concepts can be taught starting at a very young age. Tutors can use real-life scenarios to make math engaging and playful. For example, they can play “grocery store” while building math skills. The tutor can bring a set of pretend red and green apples to the tutoring session. They can tell the child that they are “buying” two red apples and three green apples. The child would take out the appropriate number of red and green apples. Then the tutor might ask the child to count all the apples and explain that two apples plus three more apples equals five apples all together. The tutor can even take out a mini whiteboard when the child is ready and write on the board: 2+3=5. The same exercises can be done with larger quantities of objects, and the tutor can teach subtraction in a similar way. For example, they might say, “If I started with three apples but ate two of them, how many apples would I have left?” Making the exercises fun and playful for the child will help them enjoy learning while building key skills.

When learning is approached in an engaging, interactive manner with shorter durations of activities, there really is no age that is too young to start tutoring.

The post Is My Child Too Young for Tutoring? appeared first on EBL Coaching.

For some children, the transition back to school is seamless. They look forward to the excitement of reconnecting with friends, meeting their teachers, and starting new after school activities. Yet for other students, especially those who are neurodivergent, the transition back to school can be challenging. Help your neurodivergent child start the new school year strong with the ideas detailed below.

Routines

For many children, summer is filled with free play, outdoor activities, and unstructured days. When the school year begins, however, routines become paramount. Rather than springing this transition on your child, start to integrate elements of their fall routine now, before the school year begins. You can discuss wake-up times and bedtimes with your child, both for school days and weekends. If they have been waking up closer to 9am in the summer but need to wake up at 7am during the week once the school year starts, have them set an alarm progressively earlier in the summer until they reach 7am right before the school year begins. The same applies to bedtime; if they have been going to bed later in the summer, have them start to go to sleep a little earlier each night. You can also create morning and afternoon checklists for tasks they’ll need to do once the school year begins. For example, their morning checklist might include getting dressed, brushing their teeth, eating breakfast, and preparing their backpack for school. You may want to come up with a list of menu items for breakfast and have them decide what they will eat for breakfast each day at the start of a given week, so you can prepare accordingly.  Their afternoon checklist might include having a snack when they get home, completing their schoolwork, turning in or putting away their homework in their backpack, eating dinner, and going to bed. The more structure you can integrate into your child’s day now, before the school year begins, the better!

Get organized!

Having strong organizational skills is a key component to school success, especially for neurodivergent children who may struggle with executive functioning skills. Shop for school supplies with your child as early as you can so you have plenty of time to organize them. You may want to color code items by subject. For example, you may select green for science, blue for math, yellow for social studies, and so on. For each subject, there should be a folder and a notebook in the color that corresponds to that class. Encourage your child to write down their homework daily in an assignment book when they are at school, and perhaps highlight the assignment for each subject in its corresponding color. You may want to designate one day per week as a “clean out my backpack and folders day” where your child cleans out any items or papers from their backpack that they no longer need to be carrying with them.

Distraction-free workspace

Neurodivergent students often become easily distracted when trying to complete their homework. Before the school year starts, set up a distraction-free work zone where your child will do their homework every day. This could be a desk in their room or a spot in a communal area, like a kitchen or dining room table. Make sure they have all the supplies they need for completing their homework, like pens, pencils, paper, a calculator, scissors, and highlighters. When the supplies run low, refill them right away to avoid having your child wander around in the middle of a homework session looking for more supplies. If they plan to work in a communal area, they can carry a portable supplies bin from their bedroom to their homework spot and back when they’re done, containing all the supplies they will need to complete their homework.

Connect with your child’s teachers

Most neurodivergent children have very unique needs. Before the school year begins or right after it starts, set up a meeting with your child’s teacher and their other service providers if relevant. Tell them about your child, including which techniques have and haven’t worked for them in the past, and set up a line of communication going forward. Perhaps you will check in with them once per month via email or set up regular phone calls to discuss your child’s progress. Additionally, you should consistently advocate for your child; while they may be doing well in school at one point in time, that could change quickly and their academic performance could take a downturn. Don’t wait for your child to struggle. Be proactive in helping them succeed and seeking additional support for them if needed. If the school year progresses and your child continues to struggle academically despite these interventions, you may want to consider private tutoring, which can be custom-tailored to your child’s needs and help them thrive in school.

The transition to the new school year can be challenging, especially for neurodivergent children. These strategies can help your child get excited for the new year and start school on a positive note.

The post Help Your Neurodivergent Child Prepare for the New School Year appeared first on EBL Coaching.