No, a diagnosis is not required, but reading and spelling difficulties should be noticeable. Before starting the Barton program, I always administer a 20min screening to ensure the student’s basic skills are at an appropriate level to begin the Barton Program. Any students that fail to pass this initial screening are recommended to complete the LiPS program before any Orton-Gillingham program is started.

If you are planning on seeking a formal diagnosis, I recommend starting the process before tutoring, as our work will alter the results.

The length of time is completely variable.  Depending on the availability and attention span of the student.  The Barton Program Minimum recommendation  is 2 sessions per week.  Which typically will take from 2-3 years to reach high school and college reading level. This timing depends on the student's individual needs and frequency of our sessions.

I schedule one-hour sessions.

Yes. The most common reason for students to be hesitant about tutoring (other than working with a new person) tends to be a lack of confidence. I am very positive and encouraging with all my students, regardless of age. My very first goal is to build confidence because this makes our work easier and allows the student to progress much faster. We play games throughout the session and get up and move our bodies. Students have done handstand contests, races, mini trampoline, checkers, chutes and ladders, nerf target shooting, jenga , the sky is the limit on ways we make this more fun. There are treats and stickers offered at the end of the lesson as well.......The activity and prizes are tailored to the student's age and interests.

You can expect to first see a change in confidence within the first month or two. From there, students typically begin to show a gradual change in their willingness to read, and by the end of level 3 parents will notice a difference.  By the end of level of 4 parents will notice a dramatic shift in ability and skills.

I do not provide homework, unless a parent would like to supplement reading activities at home or when out of town.  I'm happy to provide homework upon request.

My price for each session is $80.