Frequently Asked Questions

Isn't learning to read and spell a natural process?

No. Humanity has not reached the point that all people learn to read naturally. In evolutionary terms, reading is a fairly recent development and only 30% of the population will 'figure out' the code regardless of the method of instruction. The remaining 70% will need to be taught and will experience different degrees of difficulty if the right approach is not used. The Orton-Gillingham method has a proven track record of helping struggling readers and spellers to overcome their difficulties with the written language.

How long will it take to teach my child to read?

That is a difficult question to answer. No two children learn the same way or at the same rate. For children who do not have a learning disability but have not had the benefits of a good reading instructional method, Orton-Gillingham can work at a rapid pace. For children who have dyslexia, more time may be needed to bring them up to grade level. But without the benefit of the Orton-Gillingham approach, they may never become good readers and spellers. No program can guarantee results within a certain time frame because all children learn differently and have varying degrees of struggle with reading. Because this method is individualized, every child's needs are addressed and unique lessons are planned for each student. For those with the most severe difficulty, this approach may offer them their first taste of success with the written English language.

Is there homework?

There can be but there doesn't have to be. It is up to you, the parent, to decide if you and your child have the time to spend reinforcing at home what is taught in the instructional session. Certainly, the more time a child spends reviewing the information taught, the faster his/her progress will be. But the sessions can also stand alone and don't require additional time outside of the sessions to be effective. While the student feels successful at each session, he/she also works very hard and additional time spent on review at home might be stressful. You know your child best and you are the best judge of what they can handle.