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Associate Orton-Gillingham Certified Dyslexia Tutoring

Dyslexia Green Book: Navigating Neurodiversity

I’m Lauren McClenney-Rosenstein, Ed.D., ET/P, A/OGA (Associate-Orton-Gillingham Academy) and provide neurodiverse (dyslexic) students in-person and online Orton-Gillingham based one-on-one tutoring, that meets your child exactly where they are on their learning path. Dyslexia is not an indication of intelligence; rather, it is a neurodivergent condition where the brain processes information differently, particularly in areas related to reading and language skills.  Through introducing new practices a student’s brain can rewrite to where they are not needing to work as hard on decoding language.  With structured support, dyslexic students can embrace how they learn, confident in their ability to realize their highest of aspirations.

A core goal of dyslexia tutoring is to build essential literacy skills, such as decoding, phonemic awareness, and reading fluency. The Orton-Gillingham approach leverages multi-sensory techniques that reinforce learning and make it fun for students.  Moreover, the benefits of dyslexia tutoring extend beyond academic progress building confidence and self-esteem in students with dyslexia.  Founded on my years of study, training, and experience,  I create a trusting and supportive relationship with your child where they feel comfortable expressing themselves without judgment. This affirming approach fosters a confident and positive self-image, allowing neurodivergent students to embrace their identity, recognize and appreciate their unique strengths – and ultimately thrive.

I understand for parents navigating through the worlds of Orton-Gillingham, dyslexia tutoring, neurodivergent learning and more can be overwhelming and even at times frustrating.  Driven by my passion for educating, advocating, and bringing awareness to dyslexia, I’m here to help, have a conversation with you and bring clarity where there’s confusion.  Perhaps the best starting point for a conversation is for me to speak to the most common questions and concerns I receive from parents. As you read through these topics stay mindful every student is unique and for a more comprehensive insight on your child’s circumstances, goals, and the type of tutoring program that may be the most effective for them – reach me.  My life’s work is enabling neurodivergent students to thrive so let’s have that conversation!


What Parents Most Want to Know About Orton-Gillingham Tutoring

What Associate Orton-Gillingham Certified Means

What Associate Orton-Gillingham Certified Means

Being an Associate Level Orton-Gillingham Certified means I’ve completed a specialized foundational level of application training in the Orton-Gillingham Approach for Dyslexia and how it addresses the needs of struggling readers.  I’m certified by the Orton-Gillingham Academy to provide structured, multisensory instruction in various language areas, including phonological awareness, decoding, spelling, and handwriting.  Additionally my academic credentials include a dual master’s degrees in Elementary and Special Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Syracuse University.  I’ve also earned a Doctorate in Education in Teaching, Learning, Leadership, and Curriculum from Northeastern University. 

My training covers 13 years of experience in special education and educational consulting. My work largely covers professional development for both teachers and administrators emphasizing structured literacy intervention, implementation and relationship building. I’ve led literacy research initiatives with the Maryland Initiative for Literacy and Equity (MILE) and Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), supporting the enhancement of literacy programs within Maryland Public Schools.  Here is my Linkedin profile.  With over a decade of experience as a certified Associate Level Orton-Gillingham practitioner, including 100 hours of coursework at the certified level and more than 1,500 hours of educational therapy, I bring a profound measure of depth of knowledge to the neurodivergent space.  My certification from the Association of Educational Therapists at the Professional level further highlights my advanced skills and commitment to excellence in educational therapy.

The Orton-Gillingham Approach for Dyslexia Explained

The Orton-Gillingham Approach for Dyslexia Explained

The Orton-Gillingham Approach is a systematic and step-by-step method for teaching literacy skills (reading, spelling, writing) that engages multiple senses to enhance learning.  Key features of the Orton-Gillingham approach are that it engages multiple senses – visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile – to reinforce learning, thereby making it more accessible for students with different learning styles.   

The Orton-Gillingham approach follows a logical sequence, introducing concepts in a step-by-step manner, ensuring mastery of one skill before moving on to the next with clear explanations, modeling, and practice to solidify understanding and ensure long-term retention.  Instructions are tailored to each student’s individual needs and strengths, with regular assessments to monitor progress and adjust teaching strategies as needed.   

The Orton-Gillingham approach prioritizes developing strong phonological awareness skills, which are essential for decoding and reading fluency.   It focuses on the structure and rules of language, helping students understand the connections between sounds and letters, and how to decode and encode words.

Why the Orton-Gillingham Approach for Dyslexia is Effective

Why the Orton-Gillingham Approach for Dyslexia is Effective

Simply put, the Orton-Gillingham approach engages multiple senses (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, tactile) to reinforce learning, catering to different learning styles and making concepts more concrete.  Also, it follows a logical sequence, introducing concepts in a systematic order, building upon previously learned skills and ensuring mastery before moving on.  This, coupled with how it explicitly teaches the rules and patterns of language, providing clear explanations and modeling is core to its effectiveness.   It’s important to note this is all individualized to each student’s needs, with ongoing assessment to identify areas of strength and weakness and tailor instruction accordingly with regular review and practice to reinforce learning and ensure long-term retention. The Orton-Gillingham approach prioritizes developing strong phonological awareness skills, which are crucial for decoding and reading success.  The focus on success and mastery helps students develop confidence and a positive attitude towards reading.  The approach is backed by decades of research and has proven effective for students with dyslexia and other reading difficulties.

How To Find a Qualified Orton-Gillingham Tutor

How To Find a Qualified Orton-Gillingham Tutor

Well, you found me so you’ve done it, bravo! 🙂   Reach out to your child’s circle (school, teachers, reading specialists, or special education coordinators) as some may have connections with certified tutors or be aware of local resources.   The Orton-Gillingham Academy (OGA) welcomes being contacted via email to receive information of certified tutors local to you, click here to learn more.  Finding the right Orton-Gillingham tutor is vital for your child’s success. Take the time to interview and observe a trial session with any tutor (including me), note the tutor’s interaction with your child to assess their teaching style and rapport with your child.  Involve your child in the selection process and consider their comfort level with the tutor.  

Despite the fact that I’m located in Maryland or in the Eastern time zone, regardless of where your child is located, know that there is research that’s shown online tutoring for dyslexic students is effective (see below).   I offer a free discovery call and I am thrilled to connect with you for a comprehensive discussion about you and your child’s educational journey. During this call, I aim to assess your current situation, understand your specific needs, and explore how we can work collaboratively toward achieving your goals. Together, we have the opportunity to reshape the narrative surrounding your child’s learning differences. I look forward to our conversation!

“In sum, this study supports existing literature on the equivalence of online and face-to-face dyslexia treatments in a Dutch clinical sample. Children showed equal reading and spelling improvement in both conditions.” – Verwimp, C., Vaessen, A., Snellings, P. et al. The COVID generation: Online dyslexia treatment equally effective as face-to-face treatment in a Dutch sample. Ann. of Dyslexia74, 187–196 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11881-023-00298-0   (SOURCE)

Why Parents Trust Orton-Gillingham Tutoring for their Dyslexic Child 

Why Parents Trust Orton-Gillingham Tutoring for their Dyslexic Child 

The Orton-Gillingham approach was developed in the early 20th century, making it nearly a century old.  Anna Gillingham, an educator and psychologist, collaborated with Dr. Orton and established teaching techniques combining visual, auditory, kinesthetic (engaging the body & movement in the learning), and tactile learning strategies.  By the 1930s, Gillingham and her collaborator Bessie Stillman published instructional materials, laying the foundation for what we now know as the Orton-Gillingham Approach.  So, while the specific term “Orton-Gillingham” might be newer, the core principles and techniques have been used to tutor dyslexic students for close to 100 years. It has a long and established history of successfully helping individuals with dyslexia learn to read, write, and spell.

Parents trust Orton-Gillingham tutoring because it offers a proven, individualized, and multisensory approach that effectively addresses the specific learning needs of children with dyslexia, building their confidence and empowering them to achieve success in reading and writing.  The Orton-Gillingham approach is evidence-based and tailored to each child’s unique needs and learning style, ensuring that instruction is targeted and effective.  The multisensory nature of Orton-Gillingham engages various learning styles, making it more accessible and enjoyable for children with dyslexia.  The systematic and sequential nature of the approach builds a strong foundation in literacy skills, ensuring that children master each concept before moving on.  

Orton-Gillingham explicitly teaches phonological awareness, a crucial skill for reading success that many dyslexic children struggle with.  The focus on success and mastery helps children develop confidence and a positive attitude towards learning, which is often crucial for overcoming the challenges of dyslexia. Orton-Gillingham equips children with the tools and strategies they need to become independent learners, promoting lifelong literacy skills.

What to Expect in an Orton-Gillingham Tutoring Session  

What to Expect in an Orton-Gillingham Tutoring Session  

In an Orton-Gillingham dyslexia tutoring session, a student can expect a highly structured, multisensory learning experience tailored to their individual needs.  As your child’s tutor I will follow a carefully planned sequence, introducing concepts in a step-by-step manner, engaging multiple senses and building on previously mastered skills.  With explicit and direct instruction I provide clear explanations of concepts, modeling, and guided practice. Specific activities may include:

  • Visual activities may include using letter cards, flashcards, or other visual aids.
  • Auditory activities may involve practicing letter sounds, blending sounds, and reading aloud.
  • Kinesthetic activities may involve tracing letters, using manipulatives such as white boards and markers or letter tiles, and engaging in movement activities.
  • Tactile activities using textured materials like sandpaper letters or playdough to form letters.

Underlying learning taking place across these activities include:

  • Reading decodable text: Practicing reading texts with controlled vocabulary and phonics patterns.
  • Spelling and dictation: Applying phonics rules to spelling and writing words.
  • Handwriting practice: Developing legible and efficient handwriting skills.

I will continuously assess your child’s progress and tailor lessons to their specific needs and learning style. Activities will emphasize developing strong skills in recognizing and manipulating sounds in spoken language. Regular review and practice of previously learned concepts will help solidify understanding and build fluency.  I will create a safe and supportive learning environment, fostering confidence and motivation.  Overall, an Orton-Gillingham session is a dynamic and engaging learning experience that empowers students with dyslexia to overcome their reading challenges and develop a love of language.

How Long Will it Take for My Child to See Results from Orton-Gillingham Tutoring? 

How Long Will it Take for My Child to See Results from Orton-Gillingham Tutoring? 

Results with Orton-Gillingham tutoring for dyslexia vary based on several factors with the primary being the severity of Dyslexia.  Beyond this, younger children tend to be more adaptable and may progress more quickly than older students who have already developed ingrained reading habits.

Having said that, more frequent and longer sessions typically lead to faster progress and a motivated and actively participating child is more likely to see quicker results.  Children learn differently, some may require more time to grasp certain concepts, but practicing skills outside of tutoring sessions is essential for reinforcement, improvement and quicker results.

Generally speaking most experts seem to agree the type of progress with Orton-Gillingham tutoring noticeable in a: 

  • Short-term (weeks to months) is improved phonological awareness, letter-sound recognition, and decoding skills.
  • Medium-term (several months to a year) is increased reading fluency, accuracy, and spelling skills.
  • Long-term (years): Improved reading comprehension, writing skills, and overall confidence in language abilities.

It’s important to be mindful that progress is not always linear and some students may experience rapid improvement initially, followed by plateaus or slower progress. Since each child’s journey with dyslexia is unique, patience, perseverance, consistent practice, support at home and a positive attitude are vital for a sustained trajectory of success

How Often Should My Child Receive Orton-Gillingham Tutoring?

How Often Should My Child Receive Orton-Gillingham Tutoring? 

The general recommendation for Orton-Gillingham tutoring is at least two sessions per week, each lasting 40-60 minutes, on non-consecutive days.  This frequency allows for consistent practice and reinforcement of skills, which is crucial for students with dyslexia. It also helps prevent forgetting information between sessions and promotes a steady pace of learning.   However, the optimal frequency may vary depending on individual needs and circumstances, such as the child’s age, severity of dyslexia, learning style, and other commitments.   Here are some possible variations:

More Frequent Sessions: Some children, especially those with more severe dyslexia or who require intensive intervention, may benefit from three or even daily sessions. This allows for faster progress and more focused attention on specific challenges.

Less Frequent Sessions: While less ideal, one session per week may be suitable for some children, particularly those with milder difficulties or who are receiving additional support at school. However, it’s important to ensure that the sessions are long enough and that the child practices regularly at home to maintain progress.

Ultimately, the ideal frequency of Orton-Gillingham tutoring should be determined in collaboration with the tutor, taking into consideration the child’s individual needs and learning goals. Open communication and regular assessment will help ensure that the tutoring plan is effective and appropriately adjusted as the child progresses.

How a Parent Can Support Their Child at Home who is Receiving Orton Gillingham Tutoring

How a Parent Can Support Their Child at Home who is Receiving Orton Gillingham Tutoring 

Parents can play a crucial role in supporting their child’s learning at home while they are receiving Orton-Gillingham tutoring for dyslexia.  What parents can do is set aside dedicated time each day for practicing skills taught by the tutor, such as reading decodable texts, spelling words, or working on phonics exercises. Consistency is key. Incorporate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements into practice sessions. For example, use letter tiles, flashcards, or games to make learning fun and engaging.  Help your child complete any homework assignments assigned by me and review them together to reinforce learning.  

Provide a distraction-free environment where your child can focus on their work.  Offer praise and encouragement for effort and progress, even if it’s small.  Learning takes time, especially for children with dyslexia. Avoid criticism or frustration, and celebrate every achievement. Read aloud with your child, taking turns and modeling fluent reading. Select books that interest them and are appropriate for their reading level. Make time for your child to read independently, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day. 

I encourage parents to discuss their child’s progress, challenges, and any questions they may have.  Also, let me know about any significant changes in your child’s behavior, mood, or learning patterns that might affect their tutoring sessions.  It’s always helpful to educate yourself about dyslexia to better understand your child’s challenges and learning needs.   Celebrate your child’s unique talents and interests, and help them develop a positive self-image. If possible, connect with other parents of children with dyslexia for advice, encouragement, and shared experiences. By actively participating in your child’s Orton-Gillingham journey, you can create a powerful support system that fosters their growth, builds confidence, and empowers them to achieve success in reading and beyond.

How Much Does Orton-Gillingham Tutoring Cost?

How Much Does Orton-Gillingham Tutoring Cost? 

Phase 1

3 month literacy intervention (Standard) 2x/wk – $5,350

  • 24 OG Intervention Sessions – $4,200
  • 3 Coaching calls- $480
  • Literacy Assessment and Report – $525
  • MindPrint Cognitive Assessment $150
  • 2 milestone progress monitoring assessments

3 month literacy intervention (intensive) 3x/wk

  • 36 OG Intervention Sessions – $6,300
  • 3 Coaching calls- $480
  • Literacy Assessment and Report – $525
  • MindPrint Cognitive Assessment $150
  • 3 milestone progress monitoring assessments

Phase 2:

3 month literacy intervention standard ($4,360-$6,620)

  • 2-3x/wk
  • 24-36 OG Intervention sessions $4,200-$6,300
  • 1-2 coaching calls $160-$320
  • 4-6 milestone progress monitoring assessments
  • 3 milestone progress monitoring assessments

Phase 3: MEMBERSHIPS

OG Basics: $500/month

  • Who is this for? After completing a minimum of 100 hours of intervention, clients are eligible to qualify for this this membership is to maintain skills and keep students fresh.
  • 4 Interventions
  • 1 hour of school engagement (IEP meeting, teacher discussion, etc.)

OG premium – $1,000/month

  • Who is this for? This membership is more cost-effective after completing a minimum of 50 hours of intervention.
  • 8 Interventions
  • 2 coaching calls
  • 90 minutes of school engagement (IEP meetings, teacher discussions, etc.)

OG platinum – $1,450/month

2 hours of school engagement (IEP meetings, teacher discussions, etc.)

Remember, the cost of tutoring should be weighed against its potential benefits for your child’s reading development and overall well-being. It’s essential to find a qualified and experienced tutor who can effectively implement the Orton-Gillingham approach and help your child achieve success.  Despite the fact that I’m located in Maryland or in the Eastern time zone, regardless of where your child is located, know that there is research that’s shown online tutoring for dyslexic students is effective (see below).   I offer a free discovery call and I am thrilled to connect with you for a comprehensive discussion about you and your child’s educational journey. During this call, I aim to assess your current situation, understand your specific needs, and explore how we can work collaboratively toward achieving your goals. Together, we have the opportunity to reshape the narrative surrounding your child’s learning differences. I look forward to our conversation!

Who is this for? This membership is more cost-effective after completing a minimum of 50 hours of intervention.

12 Interventions

2 coaching calls

Points to be mindful of:

(1) “In sum, this study supports existing literature on the equivalence of online and face-to-face dyslexia treatments in a Dutch clinical sample. Children showed equal reading and spelling improvement in both conditions.” – Verwimp, C., Vaessen, A., Snellings, P. et al. The COVID generation: Online dyslexia treatment equally effective as face-to-face treatment in a Dutch sample. Ann. of Dyslexia 74, 187–196 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11881-023-00298-0   (SOURCE)

(2) Dyslexia is not an indication of intelligence; rather, it is a neurodivergent condition where the brain processes information differently, particularly in areas related to reading and language skills.  I provide tailored educational support that truly understands the unique challenges faced by children with dyslexia, where they can feel valued, accepted, and empowered on their learning journey.  With the right support and strategies, dyslexic students unlock their creativity, lean into the strengths of their dyslexic brain and thrive inside and outside the classroom.

How a Parent can Measure Their Child’s Orton-Gillingham Tutoring Progress

How a Parent can Measure Their Child’s Orton-Gillingham Tutoring Progress

Measuring a child’s progress with Orton-Gillingham tutoring for dyslexia involves a combination of formal assessments, informal observations, and communication with the tutor. Consider administering standardized reading and spelling assessments at regular intervals (e.g., every 3-6 months) to gauge overall improvement in foundational literacy skills.

Many Orton-Gillingham tutors including myself use specific assessments to monitor progress within the program, such as the Dibels or DRA. Contact me and I will let you know which I offer and know these tools can provide valuable data on specific areas of strength and weakness.

Observe your child reading aloud and note improvements in speed, accuracy, and expression. Pay attention to how easily your child can sound out unfamiliar words and apply phonics rules.  Monitor progress in spelling accuracy and the ability to apply spelling rules. Notice any changes in your child’s attitude towards reading, writing, and learning. Observe how readily your child completes and engages with homework assignments.

Request regular updates from me or any tutor on your child’s progress, including specific areas of improvement and any challenges they’re facing.  Maintain open lines of communication with a tutor to discuss your child’s learning, ask questions, and share your observations. Work with the tutor to set specific learning goals for your child and it’s not a bad idea to review the tutor periodically to track progress.

Common Complaints and Criticisms of the Orton-Gillingham Approach for Dyslexia

Common Complaints and Criticisms of the Orton-Gillingham Approach for Dyslexia

  1. Orton-Gillingham tutoring often requires intensive, one-on-one instruction, which can be time-consuming and costly for families.

Finding and affording qualified tutors can be a challenge and while Orton-Gillingham tutoring may require a significant time and financial commitment upfront, it’s an investment in your child’s future. The skills and confidence your child gains can lead to lifelong improvements in literacy and academic success can be life transforming – far outweighing the initial costs.

  1. The structured and sequential nature of the approach can sometimes feel rigid, leaving little room for individualization or adapting to a student’s specific interests and strengths. 

The structured and sequential nature of the approach provides a solid foundation for building essential reading and spelling skills. This systematic approach is particularly beneficial for students with dyslexia who struggle with traditional methods. While structured, skilled Orton-Gillingham tutors can adapt their instruction to meet individual needs, incorporating multisensory activities and adjusting pacing based on the student’s progress.

  1. While Orton-Gillingham emphasizes decoding and spelling skills, some critics argue it doesn’t place enough emphasis on reading comprehension and higher-level language skills.

Orton-Gillingham prioritizes decoding skills, which are essential for reading fluency and comprehension. Once students are able to decode words accurately and automatically, they’re able to concentrate more on understanding the meaning of the text. Orton-Gillingham can be effectively combined with other interventions that specifically target comprehension skills, such as guided reading or graphic organizers.

  1. Some students may struggle to apply the skills learned in Orton-Gillingham sessions to real-world reading and writing tasks. More explicit instruction in generalization strategies may be needed.

While not always a primary focus, generalization strategies can be incorporated into Orton-Gillingham lessons. Tutors can explicitly teach students how to apply learned skills to different contexts and real-world situations. Consistent practice and reinforcement of skills, both in tutoring sessions and at home, can facilitate the transfer of learning to other areas.

  1. While effective for many, Orton-Gillingham may not be the perfect solution for every student with dyslexia. Some may require additional interventions or approaches to address their specific learning needs.

No single approach is guaranteed to work for every child with dyslexia. However, Orton-Gillingham’s multisensory, structured, and individualized nature makes it a highly effective intervention for many students. Orton-Gillingham can be used in conjunction with other therapies and accommodations to create a comprehensive support system for the student.

  1. Access to qualified Orton-Gillingham tutors can be limited, particularly in rural or underserved areas.

While access to in-person tutors may be limited in some areas, there are growing online resources and training programs available for parents and educators to implement Orton-Gillingham principles. Advocate for increased access to Orton-Gillingham instruction in your community and schools.

Overall, the Orton-Gillingham Approach has a strong track record of success in helping students with dyslexia overcome their reading challenges. While it may have some limitations, its benefits often outweigh the drawbacks. When implemented effectively by a qualified tutor and supplemented with other strategies, it can empower students to become confident and successful readers.

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