Students with ADHD often struggle academically because of poor executive functioning skills. Specialized ADHD tutoring in NYC can help students learn concrete strategies to build these executive functioning skills and thrive both in and out of school.

New York City has a variety tutoring options, but not all tutors use research-based, multi-sensory techniques designed for students with ADHD. The best private tutors in NYC help with more than just homework; they teach tools and strategies to help students learn more efficiently and effectively.

What Makes a Great ADHD Tutor?

Strong ADHD tutors in NYC typically have specific qualities. They should:

• Specialize in executive functioning challenges
• Use structured, multi-sensory techniques
• Provide one-on-one instruction
• Individualize lessons to meet the needs of each student
• Teach organization and study skills
• Help students break multi-step tasks into smaller, more manageable steps
• Help students build confidence and independence

Many students with ADHD struggle with:

• Losing their belongings
• Forgetting to turn in homework assignments
• Procrastination and time management
• Staying focused for long stretches of time
• Starting assignments
• Consistent performance at school

ADHD tutoring in NYC that utilizes evidence-based techniques can help students build these core executive functioning challenges.

Learn more about choosing the right ADHD tutor for your child at How to Find an ADHD Tutor Near You – EBL Coaching.

Why Families in NYC Seek ADHD Tutoring

Families in New York City often look for an ADHD tutor when they notice their child:

• Is struggling to stay organized
• Has poor grades at school
• Is becoming frustrated with school
• Has weak time management
• Avoids starting homework assignments
• Shows declining self-esteem

As the academic demands of school increase, executive functioning weaknesses often become more pronounced. Students may have trouble with skills such as managing multiple classes, completing long-term projects, taking effective notes, preparing for different types of tests, and studying independently.
Specialized ADHD tutoring in NYC can help students learn systems and strategies to improve their academic performance, motivation, and independence.

Executive Functioning Support for Students With ADHD

Executive functioning skills are often a key component of ADHD-related challenges in school.  These skills include:

• Planning
• Organization
• Time management
• Working memory
• Self-monitoring
• Task initiation
• Task completion
• Sustained focus

Effective ADHD tutors in NYC should focus on executive functioning coaching during their tutoring sessions, not just homework help. This type of instruction may include helping students:

• Organize their backpacks, binders, and desks
• Manage their workload
• Come up with a plan for completing multiple assignments
• Prioritize tasks
• Develop study schedules
• Manage deadlines

Many of these skills are not innate, especially for students with ADHD, and must be taught explicitly.

Learn more about executive functioning skills and how they impact academic performance at What Are Executive Functioning Skills? A Simple Guide for Parents – EBL Coaching.

How to Choose a Private ADHD Tutor in NYC

Expertise With ADHD and Learning Challenges

When looking for a tutor for your child, try to find someone who has expertise and extensive experience working with students with ADHD and executive functioning challenges.

Specialized tutors should know that students with ADHD often need:

• Multi-sensory instruction
• Individualized, evidence-based techniques
• Movement breaks
• Repetition of new concepts
• Structured routines

Individualized, One-on-One Instruction

An ideal ADHD tutoring program in NYC should begin with an initial evaluation to gauge your child’s needs. They should then create a customized tutoring plan to remediate your child’s executive functioning and academic weaknesses effectively.  Research-based, one-on-one instruction is particularly effective for students with ADHD, since each child has a unique profile with individual strengths and weaknesses.

Some students with ADHD struggle mainly with attention and impulsivity, while others have executive functioning weaknesses that need to be addressed as well.

Evidence-Based Teaching Methods

It’s important to find a tutor for your child who uses the right evidence-based techniques to develop their areas of weakness. Effective ADHD tutoring programs in Manhattan often use:

• Multi-sensory techniques
• Tools to build organizational skills
• Explicit strategies
• Positive reinforcement and empowering language
• Structured routines

Tutoring programs that use research-based approaches for ADHD usually achieve better long-term academic improvement.

EBL Coaching: Specialized ADHD Tutoring in NYC

EBL Coaching specializes in providing one-on-one ADHD tutoring and executive functioning coaching to students in grades preK-12 in New York City and the surrounding areas. They provide individualized, research-based instruction for neurodiverse students, including those with ADHD, learning disabilities, autism, executive functioning challenges, and other special education needs. Their tutoring program begins with an initial assessment to gauge your child’s strengths and weaknesses. A customized instructional plan is then created using research-based, multi-sensory techniques to meet your child’s individual needs.

EBL Coaching’s one-on-one in person and online tutoring programs focus on:

• Executive functioning skills
• Decoding and spelling words
• Reading fluency
• Reading comprehension
• Writing organization and mechanics
• Math computation and word problem-solving skills
• Homework management
• Orton Gillingham tutoring
• Motivation and confidence development

The tutoring sessions are available:

• At their Upper East Side learning center
• At their New Jersey learning center
• At your home in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, Westchester, Long Island, and New Jersey
• At your child’s school or a local library
• Virtually

Why Individualized ADHD Tutoring is Important

Many students with ADHD are very bright and capable but struggle in traditional learning environments. Large classrooms often lack the structure and tools for students who have challenges with focus and executive functioning skills.

Private tutoring in NYC allows the tutoring sessions to be:

• Customized to the needs of each student
• Multi-sensory
• Paced appropriately
• Tailored to each student’s needs and overall profile

One-on-one tutoring can help students feel more comfortable asking questions if they are unsure of a concept and helps improve their self-confidence and overall academic skills.

In-Person vs. Online ADHD Tutoring

Many parents in NYC consider both in-person and virtual tutoring options for their child. Each modality has its own benefits.

In-Person Tutoring Benefits:

• Multi-sensory learning opportunities
• Strong rapport-building with tutor
• Fewer distractions
• Face-to-face interactions

Virtual Tutoring Benefits:

• More flexibility with scheduling
• Access to specialized tutors who may not be available in your local area
• No travel time

Many parents prefer a hybrid option, which combines both in-person and virtual tutoring.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring an ADHD Tutor

Before choosing a tutor for your child, you should ask specific questions, including:

• What is your experience working with ADHD students?
• Do you focus on developing executive functioning skills?
• Do you begin with an initial assessment?
• Do you use a multi-sensory approach?
• Do you use research-based techniques?
• How do you communicate progress to parents?
• Do you collaborate with teachers at school?
• Can you provide sessions virtually or in person?

These questions can help you decide which tutoring program is the best fit for your child.

Closing Thoughts

The best private ADHD tutors in NYC should help students with more than just homework. They should teach students strategies for building their organization, time management, planning, and other executive functioning skills to help them achieve long-term success.

With the right customized tutoring, students with ADHD can improve their performance at school, build stronger executive functioning skills, and strengthen their overall self-confidence.

If you are looking for ADHD tutoring in New York City, try to find a tutoring program that:

• Uses research-based techniques
• Provides executive functioning support
• Offers initial assessments before tutoring starts
• Creates individualized tutoring plans
• Specializes in working with students with ADHD and learning disabilities

Learn more about effective homework strategies for students with ADHD at Homework Help for ADHD: Strategies That Actually Work – EBL Coaching.

Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD Tutors in NYC

How can an ADHD tutor help my child?
An ADHD tutor can help your child in many ways, including improving their:

• Focus
• Organizational skills
• Time management
• Task initiation
• Study skills
• Homework management
• Self-confidence

Many ADHD tutors specialize in teaching executive functioning strategies that can help your child become more independent and achieve long-term academic success.

What is the difference between an ADHD tutor and a regular tutor?
A “regular” tutor may focus on homework help or basic academic skills review. An ADHD tutor, however, understands how attention, executive functioning, and organization difficulties can impact your child’s learning.

Specialized ADHD tutors can help your child:

• Break down longer tasks into smaller, more manageable steps
• Learn effective study strategies
• Manage their time efficiently
• Learn how to prioritize tasks
• Create systems for organization
• Manage their workload effectively

At what age should my child start ADHD tutoring?
Students of various ages can benefit from ADHD tutoring. Some children begin receiving tutoring in early elementary school, when the focus and organization challenges first become noticeable. Other students, however, begin receiving tutoring in middle school or high school, when the academic and executive functioning demands increase rapidly. If you notice your child struggling, don’t wait. Early intervention can help prevent future academic challenges:

Does ADHD tutoring help with executive functioning skills?
Yes! Effective ADHD tutoring programs should focus on developing executive functioning skills, including:

• Planning
• Organization
• Time management
• Task initiation
• Working memory
• Prioritization
• Task completion

Executive functioning coaching is an important component of ADHD tutoring and can help your child achieve long-term academic success

Can ADHD tutoring improve my child’s grades?
Yes! ADHD tutoring often improves students’ grades by helping them:

• Become more organized
• Prepare for different types of tests
• Avoid procrastination
• Complete and turn in homework on time
• Improve their focus
• Build stronger study skills

When students learn effective tools and strategies for building these skills, their grades in school often improve.

Is virtual ADHD tutoring effective?
Yes! Virtual ADHD tutoring can be highly effective for students, especially when the sessions are interactive and integrate evidence-based techniques.

How often should a student with ADHD receive tutoring?
The frequency at which a student should receive ADHD tutoring depends on their unique needs. Some students only need 1-2 sessions per week, while others benefit from much more frequent sessions. An initial assessment can help determine the appropriate frequency of tutoring sessions for your child.

What qualifications should parents look for in an ADHD tutor?
When looking for an ADHD tutor in NYC for your child, look for a tutor who has:

• Expertise in working with ADHD students
• Extensive executive functioning coaching experience
• Effective communication skills
• Research-based teaching methods
• Expertise using a multi-sensory teaching approach

Specialization in working with neurodiverse students is particularly important.

Which subjects does ADHD tutoring help with?
ADHD tutors can help your child with a variety of skills, including:

• Study skills
• Organizational skills
• Homework management
• Reading comprehension
• Writing organization and mechanics
• Math computation and word problem skills
• Executive functioning

How do I know if my child needs an ADHD tutor?
There are many signs that may indicate your child needs an ADHD tutor. You may want to consider ADHD tutoring if your child:

• Often forgets assignments
• Struggles with organizational skills
• Has poor time management skills
• Avoids starting homework
• Struggles with multi-step tasks
• Has difficulty prioritizing tasks

The right ADHD tutoring can provide your child with individualized instruction that they may not receive in traditional classrooms.

Are ADHD tutors available in person in NYC?
Yes! Many tutoring centers, like EBL Coaching, offer in-person ADHD tutoring in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and other areas surrounding New York City. Some tutoring programs also provide virtual or hybrid options for additional flexibility.

Learn more about strategies for ADHD at CHADD – Improving the lives of people affected by ADHD.

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, has helped thousands of students with specialized learning needs build their academic skills with ADHD 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. She has also been featured in publications including Newsweek, Autism Advocate Parenting Magazine, Epoch Times, and Macaroni Kids.

The post Best ADHD Tutors in NYC for Executive Functioning & Academic Support appeared first on EBL Coaching.

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.

At EBL Coaching, we specialize in providing individualized one-on-one tutoring to Arizona students using ESA funds. We use research-based, multi-sensory strategies to help neurodiverse students in grades prek-12 develop their reading, spelling, writing, math, and executive functioning skills.

What Is Arizona’s ESA Program?

Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program offers eligible students state education funding that can be used for specific educational expenses that are outside of traditional public school settings. Families often use these funds for:

• One-on-one tutoring
• Private school tuition
• Homeschool curriculum
• Online learning programs
• Academic materials

In Arizona, nearly all K-12 students in the state are eligible to apply for this funding. Families can use ESA funds to create an individualized education plan that is most suitable for their child’s needs.

Read about how Arizona families can use ESA funds for tutoring at https://eblcoaching.com/how-to-use-your-childs-arizona-empowerment-scholarship-account-funds-for-tutoring/

Can ESA Funds Be Used for Tutoring?

Yes! Tutoring is an approved ESA expense in Arizona, and a service that can truly help your child thrive. You can use ESA funds to pay for one-on-one academic tutoring and executive functioning coaching, either online or in person.

Many Arizona families look for tutoring when their child struggles with:

• Decoding words
• Reading fluency
• Reading comprehension
• Spelling
• Writing
• Math computation
• Math word problem solving
• Executive functioning
• Study & organizational skills

Individualized tutoring can provide your child with customized instruction that they need to build their academic skills and feel confident in their abilities.

Learn more about Arizona ESA-approved virtual tutoring services at https://eblcoaching.com/virtual-tutoring-arizona-esa/

Why Arizona Families Use ESA Funds for Specialized Tutoring

All students learn differently and have their own unique needs. Some students excel in a traditional classroom, while others need more individualized instruction tailored to their academic levels and overall profile.

At EBL Coaching, we provide one-on-one tutoring to neurodiverse students in grades prek-12 using evidence-based, multi-sensory techniques. Our tutoring program is highly individualized and designed to address each student’s specific areas of need.

We specialize in helping students with:

• Dyslexia
• ADHD
• Specific learning disabilities
• Autism
• Executive functioning challenges
• Reading and writing delays
• Math challenges

For our individualized tutoring program, we use structured, evidence-based teaching methods to help students improve their core academic skills.

Read about finding qualified tutors for students with learning disabilities at Special Education Tutoring Near Me: How to Find the Right Tutor – EBL Coaching.

Orton Gillingham Tutoring for Students with Reading Challenges

The Orton Gillingham method is considered the ideal approach for helping students with dyslexia and reading challenges develop their reading and spelling skills.

Orton Gillingham tutoring in Arizona uses a systematic multi-sensory approach that helps students improve skills in the following areas:

• Decoding
• Reading fluency
• Spelling
• Reading comprehension

At EBL Coaching, use the Orton Gillingham approach with students who struggle with reading and spelling, and we have seen significant growth with students who receive tutoring using this method. It has helped them become stronger, more confident readers.

Many Arizona parents are searching for ESA-approved dyslexia tutoring or Orton Gillingham tutoring for their child that is covered by ESA funds. Virtual tutoring allows students throughout Arizona, including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tucson, Mesa, Chandler, Glendale, and surrounding areas, to receive specialized instruction at home.

Lear more about Orton Gillinham tutoring at Best Tutoring for Dyslexia: Orton Gillingham, Reading, and Writing Support for Children – EBL Coaching.

Benefits of Virtual ESA Tutoring

Virtual tutoring has become a popular option that Arizona families choose because it offers both flexibility and access to specialized instructors who may not live in your local geographic area.

Some benefits of online tutoring include:

Flexible Scheduling

With online tutoring, you can schedule tutoring sessions around your other obligations, including school, extracurricular activities, sports games, and family commitments.

Access to Specialized Tutors

Your child can work with tutors who specialize in working with neurodiverse students, including dyslexia, ADHD, executive functioning, and other learning disabilities, regardless of where you live in Arizona.

Individualized Instruction

One-on-one sessions allow tutors to modify lessons based on the student’s response to the instruction and their learning needs, always providing individualized instruction.

Comfortable Learning Environment

Many students prefer online tutoring, since they feel more relaxed and focused in their own space.

Research and our experience at EBL Coaching have shown that virtual tutoring can be a highly effective modality for tutoring when sessions are individualized, multi-sensory, and engaging.

What Types of Tutoring Are Covered by Arizona ESA Funds?

Arizona ESA funds can be used for tutoring in a wide variety of skills, including:

• Reading remediation
• Writing instruction
• Spelling development
• Math tutoring
• Study skills
• Executive functioning coaching
• Test preparation
• Organization & time management

One-on-one tutoring sessions that are customized to each student’s individual needs and academic profile are ideal for struggling learners.

How the Tutoring Process Works at EBL Coaching

The tutoring we provide is fully individualized to the needs of each student. We begin with a discussion about your child’s strengths, weaknesses, and areas that need development, and then typically follow the process below:

1. Initial Assessment

Before we begin the tutoring, we start with an initial assessment to evaluate your child’s current academic levels and areas of need.

2. Individualized Learning Plan

Once the assessment is complete, a customized tutoring plan is created using research-based, multi-sensory techniques.

3. One-on-One Tutoring

Students work one-one-one with a highly qualified tutor who specializes in their areas of need, using the research-based methods most suitable for them.

4. Ongoing Parent Communication

At EBL Coaching, we believe parents should stay in the loop on how their child is progressing. Regular communication is provided about your child’s improvement throughout the process.

Who Can Benefit from ESA Tutoring?

ESA-funded tutoring can help various types of learners, including students who:

• Are struggling academically
• Have a diagnosed learning disability
• Have ADHD or executive functioning challenges
• Need help with reading, writing, or math
• Are homeschooled
• Attend private school
• Need extra support outside of school

One-on-one tutoring allows the instruction to be truly customized to the student’s specific needs.

How to Get Started with Arizona ESA Tutoring

If you are interested in pursuing ESA tutoring for your child, you can start the process as follows:

1. Apply for Arizona ESA funding by visiting https://esaportal.azed.gov/Account.
2. Contact EBL Coaching to discuss your child’s needs and how we can help them with one-on-one tutoring.
3. Your child starts receiving individualized tutoring sessions tailored to their specific needs.

We are happy to speak to you about how EBL Coaching’s research-based tutoring services for neurodiverse students can help your child.

Why Families Choose EBL Coaching

EBL Coaching has extensive experience helping neurodiverse students with various learning challenges develop their academic skills through evidence-based, multi-sensory instruction.

Parents often choose EBL Coaching because we offer:

• One-on-one tutoring
• Research-based, multi-sensory instruction
• Orton Gillingham tutoring
• Executive functioning coaching
• Specialized support for learning disabilities and ADHD
• Virtual tutoring
• Customized tutoring plans
• Highly experienced tutors

We are committed to helping all children become more confident, successful students.

Learn More About ESA Tutoring

If you are looking for the right specialized one-on-one tutoring covered by Arizona ESA funds, EBL Coaching can help.
Contact us to learn more about our tutoring for reading, writing, math, as executive functioning skills, as well as our Orton Gillingham instruction that we provide to students throughout Arizona.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona ESA Tutoring

Can Arizona ESA funds be used for tutoring?
Yes! With Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program, you can use approved ESA funds for one-on-one tutoring. Many families choose to use their ESA funds for reading tutoring, math tutoring, writing tutoring, executive functioning coaching, Orton Gillingham instruction, and other academic support.

Is online tutoring covered by Arizona ESA funds?
Yes. In many cases, you can use your ESA funds for virtual tutoring services, if the tutoring provider is approved. Online tutoring can give your child access to specialized instructors who may not live in your local geographic area.

What types of tutoring can ESA funds cover?
You can use your child’s Arizona ESA funds for a variety of tutoring services, including:

• Reading tutoring
• Writing instruction
• Math tutoring
• Executive functioning coaching
• Dyslexia intervention
• Orton Gillingham tutoring
• Study skills & organizational skills development

Make sure you review the current ESA guidelines to confirm eligibility requirements before your child starts to receive tutoring services.

Can students with dyslexia use ESA funds for tutoring?
Yes! Dyslexia tutoring is a great way to use your child’s ESA funds, since the right reading and writing remediation can help them tremendously.  Structured literacy approaches such as Orton Gillingham tutoring can help your child improve their decoding, reading fluency, spelling, and reading comprehension skills.

Can students with ADHD benefit from ESA-funded tutoring?
Yes, absolutely. Students with ADHD can benefit from one-one-one tutoring, executive functioning coaching, organizational skills development, study skills support, and academic instruction individualized to their specific needs.

Does my child need a diagnosis to receive ESA-funded tutoring?
Your child does not necessarily need a diagnosis to receive ESA-funded tutoring. Arizona’s ESA program is available to a wide range of students, but eligibility requirements can change, so make sure you review the current ESA guidelines to find out if your child qualifies.

What are the benefits of one-on-one tutoring?
There are many benefits of one-on-one tutoring! It allows the instruction to be truly customized to the specific needs of each student. Additionally, tutors can adjust the methodologies, pacing, and levels of materials used in lessons when working one-on-one with a student.

How often should my child receive tutoring?
The frequency of tutoring varies based on the individual needs of each student. Some students may only need one session per week, while those with significant academic challenges may benefit from more frequent weekly tutoring sessions. An initial evaluation can help determine the best tutoring frequency for your child.

Can homeschooled students use ESA funds for tutoring?
Yes! Many families who homeschool their children use Arizona ESA funds to supplement their child’s homeschool education with individualized tutoring, executive functioning coaching, or specialized research-based instruction in reading, writing, and math, including Orton Gillingham tutoring.

How do I get started with Arizona ESA tutoring?
To get started with Arizona ESA tutoring, begin by applying for Arizona ESA funding if you haven’t done so already. After you are approved, you can look for tutoring options that best meet your child’s academic needs. EBL Coaching can help your child with one-on-one research-based, multi-sensory tutoring services, including Orton Gillingham tutoring and executive functioning coaching, that are funded through Arizona’s ESA program.

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, has helped thousands of students with specialized learning needs build their academic skills 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. She has also been featured in publications including Newsweek, Autism Advocate Parenting Magazine, Epoch Times, and Macaroni Kids.

The post Arizona ESA Tutoring for Students with Dyslexia, ADHD, and Learning Disabilities appeared first on EBL Coaching.

The National Council of Teachers (NCTE) 2019 report underlines that independent reading is one of the most influential practices affecting learners’ reading success, weighing more than guided reading, drills of skills, and work with assigned texts.

Benefits of Independent Reading for Students

• Reading fluency and vocabulary. Once students read more, they encounter new words naturally. The same NCTE statement says the development of vocabulary has a direct link to the activities students do during self-selected reading.
• Reading comprehension. Similarly, as young students practice more, they better synthesize information and infer meaning in the long run. According to the School Library Research Journal report by Bernice E. Cullinan, the amount a 5-year-old read directly affects reading comprehension when they are 7 years old.
• Empathy. Reading, not only fiction but stories with diverse help develop empathy. The 2025 National Literacy Trust post declares that reading helps readers see views of others (32.8%) and understand more about other people (32.4%).
• Stress reduction. Learners may feel relaxed while reading, even for a short time. The 2025 research results by Project Tomorrow, an education nonprofit, underline that large print books can decrease stress even more.
• Reading habits. Daily reading sets reading preferences and habits for the future. According to a 2026 Purdue University post by Breanya Hogue, Yilin Shen, and Jorge Perez De Jesus, even a few focused minutes a day can help to develop a habit

What the Research Says About Independent Reading

Research pieces admit that independent reading strategies can be beneficial and provide reasons for using them at home and school.

• The main support comes from the already mentioned NCTE statement from 2019, underlining the effect of independent reading on the students’ development and reading achievement.
• At the same time, the 2000 foundational report by the National Reading Panel is more neutral, admitting the popularity of the independent reading concept and its effect on fluency, but finding no support for it. The report is still used today due to its extensive description of reading components, which is still used today.
• However, a 2024 Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report hints that though interest in reading and reading habits for fun decline, around 50% still believe reading for enjoyment is crucial. It supports that such a reading practice definitely answers students’ needs.

When Do Students Start Reading Independently?

Most students begin reading simple books independently in Grade 1 (ages 6-7), since they know the foundational phonics and decoding. So, by grade 3, or age 9, they transform into independent readers who can focus on texts that are longer and more complicated.

Nevertheless, everything depends on the reader and their skills. A student who is great at reading in Grade 3 and reads freely, in Grade 5, may need structured support to continue to do so.

How to Incorporate Independent Reading into the Classroom

To incorporate independent reading in the classroom, you should ensure that it happens regularly, and at the same time, students can pick what to read, and a teacher leads or models.

Focusing on these conditions will allow you to build a structure that helps protect free choice reading as a habit, even if the schedule is packed.

Schedule a Daily Independent Reading Block

A dedicated, separate block offers a predictable and consistent time to practice every day. It’s possible when students have a fixed slot for practice. Dedicated independent reading time will allow to develop a habit, have structure, and build reading stamina.

Here are the best ways to incorporate blocks into students’ day:

• For K-2 students, after a meeting or in transition between activities.
• For students in grades 3-5, 15 minutes of sustained silent reading at a specific time (accommodate the environment for it if possible).
• For middle and high school students, make sure you always have 10-15 minutes for independent reading in ELA (or other) class; reduce time, but don’t cut this block out.

Help Students Choose the Right Books

The rationale behind picking certain books is that when books correspond to students’ levels, it’s easier to advance comprehension and learning. Focus on books that a kid will be comfortable with.

Yet, don’t limit students to a certain reading level, especially if they are interested in specific books. If an independent reader is passionate about a topic, they may push through a challenging text without losing reading motivation.

Model Reading Behavior

It’s one of the simplest independent reading strategies for a teacher or educator to try. When teachers are reading, and students see them, they receive a signal: “That’s not just an assignment.” Young learners often look at what the figures they see as authority do rather than listen to them.

Build a Classroom Library Students Want to Use

Students should be able to choose a reading that meets their needs and interests. For this, a teacher should focus on creating a decent library with relevant materials. It may be small, but well curated, and it will outperform a large and ignored one. There, you can:

• Collect fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, and high-interest books that suit different needs.
• Regularly update libraries with popular books, relevant topics, and new editions.
• Encourage students to use library cards and access the school library or digital platforms.

How Parents Can Support Independent Reading at Home

To support the self-directed reading programs at home, parents should ensure kids practice reading independently. In this case, they may try to mirror the independent learning strategies, develop routines, and arrange space for it.

Choose Books That Match Interest and Level

Just like with an independent reading strategy in the classroom, at home, a parent should take into account both interest and level. Nevertheless, at home, a child should have more freedom.

Thus, the best recommendation for a parent is to let your kid lead, pick a topic first, then a level. To support their interest, take notes, and find relevant similar options.

Create a Reading Space at Home

Just like in school, an independent reading at home needs a dedicated reading space. A parent should provide an environment where children have no distractions and can maintain reading focus. On the other hand, it should be cozy and add to the reading as an enjoyable experience. When a child finds space with comfort and books, the habit of voluntary reading can stick longer.

Set a Regular Reading Time Together

Joint reading is one of the popular activities to improve kids’ reading skills at home. And in the case of independent reading, it may work as well. Just think of making a place and time for reading together. You can make it solely about reading, or leave room for discussion as well.

Nonetheless, it can happen that independent learning may not be enough. And that’s when families may want to resort to structured support.

For such families, the Brighterly reading program can offer personalized plans, rich and interactive classes, and targeted intervention from tutors. There, a priority is to develop useful habits.

Independent Reading Activities for Students

Reading journals, book talks, and library visits are the independent reading activities that can develop the reading habit and avoid adding pressure.

Reading Logs and Journals

As an educator, encourage learners to have an active reading log or make notes in a journal. Ask kids to regularly include in their things the title, date, and two sentences of reaction.

Records, either in a notebook or a digital app, would help students build accountability and remember the value. Later, you can use these logs to start a conversation.

Book Talks and Group Discussions

Next, try to ignite a conversation in a class. How? Invite one or two students to give a small pitch about their reading. There, the 5WH1 framework may do the trick. Yet, make sure you ensure that participation is voluntary.

A good pitch and a good book may easily ignite a conversation and add to the reading group discussion in a class.

Library Visits and Digital Access

Also, schedule a visit to the library, whether physical or digital, at the start of a semester and instruct kids on how to look for and request books. For digital platforms, share with them how to create free accounts and which platform to use: Sora, Libby, or Hoppia. Once it’s done, focus on teaching to find relevant books.

Conclusion

In a classroom, an independent reading is all about consistency and freedom. It provides consistent practice to help to build fluency, vocabulary, and reading stamina. And that’s why independent reading is so important.

Importantly, if a student needs a structured approach to support independent practice at home, the Brighterly reading comprehension program can help via 1:1 sessions and customized lessons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Audiobooks Count as Independent Reading?
Yes, audiobooks count as independent reading, especially for students who develop fluency or experience reading challenges like dyslexia. Exposure to audiobooks that are well narrated adds to vocabulary and comprehension.

What Is the Difference Between Independent Reading and Guided Reading?
The difference lies in the involvement levels of a teacher, student autonomy, role of instructions. Independent reading is when students read silently and autonomously the text they choose to develop a reading habit. Guided reading is teacher-led, where students get text with direct instruction and prompts to target specific skills.

How Do I Know If a Book Is Too Hard or Too Easy for a Student?
Apply the 5-finger rule and ask a student to read one page. If there are zero or one unfamiliar words, it may be too easy; 4 or 5 may be too hard. You can also use a “just right” principle.

Is Independent Reading Effective for Struggling Readers?
Yes, independent reading can be effective for struggling readers if teachers use it with appropriate strategies like scaffolding. Students are to benefit the most from the self-selected reading texts that are paired with structured support and guidance from a teacher or tutor.

How Do I Track Independent Reading Without Quizzes or Tests?
To track independent reading without quizzes and tests, you can resort to reading logs, brief reading conferences, and voluntary book discussions or group talks. In independent reading, the goal of tracking is a conversation.

What Is Sustained Silent Reading (SSR) and How Does It Differ from Independent Reading?
Sustained silent reading (SSR) is not different from independent reading; it’s a classroom format for independent reading. It contemplates a scheduled educational practice when everyone in the classroom reads silently without interruption.

The post What Is Independent Reading? Benefits, Strategies, and Why It Matters for Kids appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Look for evidence-based reading instruction

If your child is struggling with reading, tutoring using an evidence-based, multi-sensory approach is most effective. One such method is called the Orton Gillingham approach, which is a structured, multi-sensory, diagnostic and prescriptive method for helping students develop stronger decoding and spelling skills. With this approach, students use tools such as colored sand, magnetic tiles, mini whiteboards, and shaving cream, amongst other related tools, as part of a systematic approach to teaching. An example of a NYC Orton Gillingham tutoring lesson might involve teaching the digraph “sh” so that the student can ultimately learn how to read words containing this digraph. An Orton Gillingham tutoring lesson might be structured as follows:

• The reading specialist starts by holding up an audio-visual flash card with the letters “sh” on the front and a key picture of a ship on the back.
• The reading specialist holds up the card and says, “These are the letters sh, like ship (they’d flip the card around), it makes the sound /sh/” (they’d flip the card back around).
• The student repeats that sequence on their own, then moves onto skywriting.
• The Orton Gillingham reading specialist models writing those letters in the sky, saying aloud as they trace them, “around and around” (for s) and “down, up, and hump” (for h).
• The student skywrites the letters on their own, then traces them in colored sand or shaving cream.
• The student completes Orton Gillingham workbook exercises corresponding to that sound.
• The Orton Gillingham tutor may use magnetic tiles or other similar tools to have the student practice blending sounds together, forming words such as ship, shut, or shop.

These multi-sensory Orton Gillingham tutoring lessons provided by a reading specialist in NYC can help your child develop much stronger reading skills.

Find a reading specialist in NYC who uses a structured plan

When your child begins their tutoring sessions, it’s important that the reading specialist in NYC has a structured plan in place for the tutoring. Instead of bringing in random unrelated worksheets or books to each session, they should have a systematic learning plan, starting with the levels and skills your child needs help with and building upwards from there. For example, if your child is struggling to read consonant-vowel-consonant words (like hug, mit, rag), the reading specialist should begin with a structured, multi-sensory tutoring plan that teaches individual letters and their corresponding sounds and work on how to blend those sounds together to form basic words. Once your child has mastered reading these basic words, the reading specialist should move onto words containing blends, consonant digraphs, vowel digraphs, r-controlled patterns, and so on, all following a systematic Orton Gillingham tutoring plan.

Read more about NYC dyslexia tutoring at: https://eblcoaching.com/what-should-i-look-for-in-a-dyslexia-tutor/

Choose a reading specialist with expertise in your child’s age and grade level

Some reading specialists in NYC focus on teaching older students comprehension strategies, including making inferences and synthesizing main ideas. Others might focus on early childhood reading, and some NYC reading specialists may have expertise in teaching decoding and reading fluency to middle and high school students. It’s important that your child’s Manhattan reading specialist has expertise in working with students at their age and grade level and uses tools and strategies appropriate to your child’s specific needs.

Make sure your child connects well with the reading specialist’s personality

The right personality match is key in effective reading tutoring sessions. When you look for a reading specialist in Manhattan for your child, try to find someone who you think your child will click with. If your child prefers younger, bubbly personalities, try to find a reading specialist who fits that profile. If your child prefers quieter tutors or perhaps older, more seasoned reading specialists, look for those qualities when searching for the ideal reading tutor in Manhattan for your child.
Finding the right reading specialist in NYC can make a big difference in your child’s academic performance. With research-based methodologies, a structured tutoring plan, and the right personality match, a reading specialist can help your child develop stronger reading skills and improve their self-confidence. Learn about how EBL Coaching can help your child develop stronger reading skills with our one-on-one reading tutoring program in NYC and Orton Gillingham instruction at www.eblcoaching.com.

Learn more about the science of reading tutoring at https://eblcoaching.com/what-is-the-science-of-reading/

Frequently asked questions 

What are signs your child may need a reading specialist?
Your child may benefit from receiving tutoring sessions from a reading specialist if they demonstrate any of the following challenges:

• Difficulty sounding out words
• Reads slowly with a lot of effort
• Avoids reading or doing reading assignments
• Has trouble with spelling and writing
• Struggles to comprehension materials they read
• Has low self-esteem or becomes easily frustrated when trying to read

What does a reading specialist do?
A reading specialist provides specialized reading tutoring to students to develop their overall reading skills, including phonemic awareness, decoding, reading fluency, and reading comprehension.

What are some benefits of Orton Gillingham tutoring?
Orton Gillingham tutoring has many benefits! Some of these benefits include:

• Research-based approach to reading intervention
• Multi-sensory tools
• Structured lessons that build upon one another
• Individualized tutoring sessions based on student needs
• Lessons are diagnostic and prescriptive, and move at student’s pace
• Helps develop stronger decoding and spelling skills

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, has been providing reading remediation and Orton Gillingham tutoring in NYC for over 20 years.

The post What to Look for in a Reading Specialist in NYC appeared first on EBL Coaching.

A ChildNEXUS Podcast: Ep. 215, How to Support Students Who Struggle with Reading Comprehension

Highlighting

Many students are passive, rather than active, readers. This means that they are reading text but are not actively engaged in what they are reading and therefore may miss out on key information. Help your child develop stronger active reading and reading comprehension skills with a tri-colored highlighting strategy. Explain to your child that when we read, there are three elements we should look for: the topic, which is one, two, or three words describing the passage; the main idea, which is what the author is saying about the passage; and the important details, or salient information describing the main idea. They should highlight the topic in blue, main idea in green, and important details in yellow. Then select a news article or passage from a workbook. Ask your child to first read the article or passage without doing any highlighting, then go back and highlight the topic, main idea, and important details using blue, green, and yellow highlighters. You can even have them write a 1-2 line summary in their own words at the bottom of the page, summarizing what they just read. Developing stronger active reading skills can help your child excel in all subjects at school!

Reading Books

You can also teach your child strategies to help them become more actively engaged in the text when they are reading a novel. As they read, have them stop after every 2-3 pages and tell you a short summary of what they just read. Independently, they can also use a post-it note to write a 1-2 line summary of the information they read and stick it inside the book after those 2-3 pages. When they complete the chapter, they should write a one paragraph chapter summary in a separate notebook detailing what they just read, helping to ensure they grasped all of the events in the story. You can also have them fill out a character map at the end of each chapter when new characters are introduced, detailing the character’s name, a description about them and perhaps any good or bad qualities they noticed about each character and examples from the book that depict those qualities. Additionally, you may want to discuss with your child what they think may happen next in the story and why they think certain events may have happened. The more engaged they can be with the text, the better!

Visualizing

Learning to visualize information when reading is another important skill for reading comprehension success. You can help your child learn to visualize text starting with individual sentence visualizations. To do so, read a sentence to your child, like, “Dax was walking home from school when it started raining.” Ask your child pointed questions to help them form a visual image of the information in this sentence. For example, you might ask questions like, “How old do you think Dax is? What color hair does he have? Was he walking on a sidewalk or the street? Was he holding an umbrella? If so, what color was the umbrella?” Once your child has created a visual image of this sentence in their mind and has described this image to you, move onto the next sentence in the story and ask similar prompting questions. At the end of the story, have your child retell each sentence with all of the details from the visual images they created in their minds.

Tutoring

If your child continues to struggle with reading comprehension despite trying these strategies at home, you may want to consider one-on-one tutoring. This specialized tutoring can be targeted to your child’s individual needs and can help them develop much stronger reading comprehension skills, key for academic success.

Reading comprehension is one of the most important skills in school. Try these strategies at home to help improve your child’s confidence and overall academic performance

Read more about improving your child’s reading skills at https://eblcoaching.com/how-to-improve-your-dyslexic-childs-reading-skills/ and https://www.ldonline.org/ld-topics/reading-dyslexia/about-reading-disabilities-learning-disabilities-and-reading

The post How Reading Comprehension Tutoring Can Help Students appeared first on EBL Coaching.

A new report from the National Assessment of Educational Progress paints a sobering picture of children’s reading levels. The report, based on 2024 test scores, found that a record-low number of fourth and eighth-grade students in the U.S. had below-basic reading skills.

According to the NAEP, one-third (33%) of eighth graders had “below-basic” reading skills — the largest number since the exam began in 1969. Additionally, 40% of fourth graders’ reading skills were considered “below-basic,” the most in two decades.1

“Not only did most students not recover from pandemic-related learning loss, but those students who were the most behind and needed the most support have fallen even further behind,” the U.S. Department of Education said in a statement.

As troubling as these numbers are, they open the door for constructive conversation.

“The National Report Card does not negate that some individual schools, individual teachers, and students are doing a great job,” says Karen Aronian, Ed.D., an education and parenting expert. “However, the NAEP report card is a wake-up call, an overview for our country to take stock of how students, teachers, and schools are performing so they can recalibrate.”

Education and literacy experts discuss the reasons for the low reading skills scores and share small ways parents can foster a love of reading from an early age.

Expert Theories Behind Low Reading Scores

In what may sound like an all-too-familiar refrain, the pandemic likely plays a role here.

Emily Levy, Ed.D., a learning specialist and the founder and director of EBL Coaching, points out that most kids who were in fourth grade in 2024 were in kindergarten during the pandemic.

“Kindergarten is a time when the foundations of reading are established,” she says. “Students begin to learn the names of the letters and their corresponding sounds and how to blend sounds together to form words. Without these foundations, reading only becomes more challenging as students progress through school, and it was extremely difficult to teach these critical skills remotely to children at such a young age.”

Similarly, students who were in eighth grade in 2024 were fourth-graders during the acute phase of the pandemic.

“That’s a time when we typically see a shift from learning to read to reading to learn, and students are taught essential reading comprehension and inferencing skills,” Dr. Levy notes.

Dr. Aronian says absenteeism also rose during the pandemic and continues to do so. For instance, a 2024 New York State Comptroller report found that approximately one in three New York students were chronically absent during the 2022-23 school year, defined as missing 10% of school days. Alaska had the nation’s highest rates (45%).2

However, experts say attributing the reading scores to a pandemic fallout oversimplifies a complicated issue. In a January 2025 report by the American Enterprise Institute, education researcher Nat Malkus notes that the dip in skills seen in American children mirrors that of adults over the same period.3

He also points to other familiar culprits like screens and social media. The experts Parents spoke with agree.

“While there are some apps and programs that can be valuable educational tools, prolonged exposure to screens and social media can be detrimental to a child’s attention span, interfere with very important critical thinking skills, and impact the ability to ask thought-provoking and high-level questions,” says Kristen Miller, Director of Education at Celebree School, which offers programs for infants to school-aged children.

Miller says scrolling forces people to process information quickly. Ideally, people take time to think about what they are reading or seeing and absorb the information.

Dr. Aronian notes the distracting nature of smartphones and watches in schools, but says that’s changing. (For instance, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul recently introduced a proposal to curb smartphone use in schools.) One hope of policy proposals like these is to help students focus.

In 2024, college professors reported students were arriving on campus unprepared to read full texts and with smaller vocabularies than previous generations, pointing to middle and high school curriculums focusing on comprehending the “main ideas” gleaned from shorter passages.

“I do not think there is a lack of rigor necessarily in the high school curricula, but the stakes are high in public schools as a result of state assessment tests and accountability,” says Jan Lacina, Ph.D., the senior associate dean for research, graduate studies, and strategic partnerships at Texas Christian University’s College of Education. “As a result, district curricula may be structured to prepare children for tests and lack the framework for preparing students to be critical readers, thinkers, and writers.”

How to Help Your Child Love Reading

More funding for teacher development and libraries, less focus on test scores, and more free and accessible in-person tutoring were just a few of the many systemic and structural changes experts point to as necessary to shift reading skills. However, parents can’t change the system overnight by reading bedtime stories to little ones. They can, however, prioritize reading from an early age.

Model behavior

“To encourage children’s reading, parents must model a love of reading and set up reading zones in your home, cars, and for bathtime,” Dr. Aronian says, pointing out that some books are waterproof. “Always have a book in your bag for subway rides, waits in line and downtimes.”

Dr. Lacina suggests discussing your latest reads with your child to show you value literacy.

Make reading routine

“Develop a routine for reading aloud to your child, beginning with an infant and continuing throughout their early childhood years,” Dr. Lacina says. “As children begin to read independently, have your child read to you each day.”

Keep it fun

“Identify topics [your] child is interested in—dinosaurs, unicorns, plants—just about any topic is fine, and find books on that topic for their child to read or for [you] to read to [your] child,” Dr. Levy says. “This might also include magazines, comics, and news articles—anything that will help engage their child and make them enjoy reading.”

The post Latest National Report Card Says Kids’ Reading Scores Have Hit All-Time Lows appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Perfect for kids who aren’t big into page-turning.

Some kids love the thrill of turning the pages of paper book. They enjoy visually gauging their reading progress and find reading on a comfortable chair or couch simply relaxing. Many children, however, gravitate to tech tools. They jump on any opportunity to swipe, press, or share, and are easily engaged by digital content. Tap into this “tech savvy-ness” with the reading apps below for kids ages 4-11 to help your child build critical reading skills while still having fun.

Age 4-8

Starfall Learn to Read

With this engaging app, kids can practice their decoding skills using 15 mini multi-sensory books, each of which focus on an individual sound, including short vowels, long vowels, vowel teams, and r-controlled vowels. When reading each book, your child can click on the word if she has trouble decoding it and the app will vocalize its correct pronunciation, and if she clicks on the image on each book page, the characters and objects will “come alive” with movements and sounds, providing humor and loads of fun.

Bob Books Reading Magic

This app helps emerging readers learn to blend sounds together to both read and spell words. It contains four levels, starting with basic consonant-vowel-consonant words and progressing into longer, more challenging words, and serves as a great supplement to Orton Gillingham reading lessons. Players must spell basic words first by matching letter tiles to ones already provided as visual hints. Once they have done so, the app sounds out the word and the images become colorful and animated. Later, “visual hints” are not provided and players must drag letters in order to spell words, providing higher level reading and spelling practice.

Homer-Kids Learn to Read

This app helps kids develop their early reading skills, along with other basic skills such as shapes, numbers, and color identification. It also integrates reading comprehension and critical thinking practice, skills that become increasingly important as students move through school. To play, students follow a “wickle avatar” around a map containing various activities, through four different levels. Kids enjoy learning about a variety of topics, including animals, transportation, music, and more, through both listening and reading. The app contains enjoyable worksheets to practice specific skills and 60 books to read.

Age 8-11

Duh Books

This app is a great one for curious kids who love learning about zany, interesting topics. It contains a variety of e-books‎ on various fascinating topics including animals, natural disasters, the universe, and many more. Players learn new information provided in simple terms, enjoy the engaging visuals, and can click on links if they are interested in learning more about a topic. It’s great for kids who love learning new facts and information about the world.

National Geographic Kids

This is a great app for kids who love seeing amazing, hard-to-capture photographs and are inspired by reading new information about fascinating topics. The app contains stories, “weird but true” facts, jokes, photo games, puzzles, and quizzes on topics such as history, science, technology, wildlife, and worldwide cultures. Kids love the engaging, eye opening content and have fun learning loads of new information.

‎As students move through school, the reading requirements will increase rapidly. Help your child develop key reading skills while enjoying the process, and she will be well on her well to excelling in school!

The post The Best Reading Apps For All Grade Levels appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Help your child continue to build her academic skills and prevent the all too common “summer slide” with these fun ideas.

Summer is a time for outdoor games, poolside laughter, and fun in the sun. Yet, it is also a time when many kids lose valuable academic skills. In fact, research tells us that kids can lose up to three months of academic gains in reading and math over the summer. Help your child continue to build her academic skills and prevent the all too common “summer slide” with the ideas detailed below.

Read…a lot!

It’s easy to let regular reading time slip over the summer when days are long and activities often run late. Yet, it is important that kids continue reading on a consistent ‎basis throughout the course of the summer. This isn’t just limited to novels–your child can read newspapers, comic books, trivia books, short stories, or the like. You may even try setting up “family reading hour” (or portion of an hour) where all members of your family gather together for a pre-set time period and read. Try to lead by example and show your child how much joy reading can bring. In doing so, he will likely follow your lead and eventually come to enjoy the task.

Play (fun) learning games

Most kids enjoy playing games, so take advantage of down time this summer to play some education-based games that are still loads of fun. You can play Boggle, for instance, where you shake a tray filled with dice to form a grid of 16 letters. Players then have three minutes to create as many words as they can using the letters. You can also try playing Apples to Apples, where players build their language skills by matching red “object” cards to green “descriptive” cards and try to come up with the best pairs. To build your child’s vocabulary and reading skills, play Zingo!, where players match pictures and words, or you can play HiHo! Cherry-O with younger children to build foundational math skills, like number recognition, counting, and basic arithmetic.

Have fun in the kitchen!

To build your child’s math skills, ‎try cooking a meal or baking a dessert with him. If you decide to make brownies, for instance, ask your child to measure the correct amount of oil and water in a measuring cup. You may try “doubling” the recipe and ask him how much more of each ingredient you would now need, and how many more brownies you can now expect with the doubled ingredients. Have him read the recipe and directions to practice his reading skills, or perhaps have him write a menu for a meal you cook your family, or a review on each dish you created. The more fun and interactive you can make the process, the better!

Practice writing at the beach

For younger children, you can work on basic skills development, like letter and number writing, using sand at the beach, dirt at the park, or even flour in your kitchen. For instance, if you are practicing the letter p, have your child say the words “down, up, and around” out loud as she traces the letter in the sand, or “around, up, and down” as she writes the letter a. You might try spraying some shaving cream on a cookie tray and have her trace different letters and numbers using her finger for added tactile reinforcement. For basic math skills, have her count out a quantity of jelly beans or buttons, then ask her questions like, “If my friend gives me 2 j‎elly beans and another friend gives me 2 more jelly beans, how many jelly beans would I have all together?” or “If I had 5 jelly beans but I ate 2 of them, how many would I have left?” These types of exercises will help your child learn to solve basic addition and subtraction problems.

Electronic learning

Most kids love playing games on an iPad, so why not try integrating some learning-based apps? Try some of the following ones:

Starfall Learn to Read

Ages 4 and up

This is a great app for reinforcing basic reading skills. It includes 15 short books for kids to read that each emphasize a different sound pattern and contain animated videos, songs, and engaging characters. Each book also includes activities related to the story, including matching and fill-in-the-blank exercises.

Hungry Fish
Ages 4-8

This app is a helpful tool for building addition, subtraction, and mental math skills. To play, kids drag and combine numbers in bubbles, then “feed” them to a floating fish. When the fish is fed correct answers, it expands, and it shrinks when it does not receive correct answers. As players complete each level, they move on to more challenging ones, always receiving immediate feedback along the way.

Sentence Builder

Ages 6 and up

Your child can develop important grammar, sentence structure, and overall writing skills with this fun and engaging app. To play, students use slot machine-style wheels to select words, then create sentences describing various pictures. The app begins with basic sentences and later moves onto more complex ones. The images are bright and colorful, and students build critical sentence formation and writing skills.

Summer is a time when many kids lose key academic skills. Try these activities to help your child prevent “summer slide” and jump-start the new school year on a positive note.

The post 5 Tips For Preventing Summer Slide appeared first on EBL Coaching.