Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What method of tutoring do you use?
I do not advocate one particular method. I select the best
aspects from many different methods as needed.
My child has been evaluated by many professionals. Why
should I have yet another evaluation?
When your child first comes to me, I provide a “learning
assessment” which is usually different from previous examinations. I assess whether the child is a
visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner so that I can create an individualized program that works with the
child's strengths. For example, if I know that he or she is a kinesthetic learner, then I know that the student
requires a hands-on approach, similar to the way the computer requires the use of a keyboard or a mouse.
I think my child has ADD, can you help him or
her?
Yes, I have a lot of experience with these students. There
are certain patterns of behavior that appear to be caused by ADD. The disruptive behaviors are often alleviated
as tutoring progresses.
My child is an average student, not labeled with
any particular problems. I feel that he/she can do better. Can you help?
There are reasons why an average student is not performing
up to his or her potential. I uncover hidden talents and work with students to raise their test scores.
Other educators have said that my child's reading
and writing is improving, but as a parent, I am not sure. How will I know that my child is really
improving?
My goal is to increase the child's reading and writing level
in a short time. The child will be asked to read out loud so that you can follow his/her progress and note
his/her improvement.
I've heard the term Whole Language, what is your
opinion of this approach?
I generally oppose the whole language philosophy because it
allows children to spell words incorrectly. I prefer a solid foundation that includes phonics. It is imperative
for children to learn long and short vowel sounds. Using flash cards in order to memorize sight words does little
to teach the skills needed to sound out new words.
How often does my child need to be tutored to make
such progress?
One session per week is all that is needed. In some cases
twice a week may be recommended.
A special note...
My expertise includes working with children who have dyslexia. Dyslexia is often misunderstood. There are many varieties of dyslexia that do not include reversing letters or seeing backwards. Your child may have dyslexia in writing, but not in reading. For example, many kids can talk for hours on the phone to their friends, but can't manage to write a simple paragraph on paper.
The good news is that if dyslexia is part of the problem, there is often an untapped area of strength and talent waiting to surface.
Many former students who were classified in special education at the onset of tutoring are now on the honor roll. I have worked with kids from more than ten different schools in the area.
