Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my child have trouble reading? A variety of learning and attention issues can affect a child's reading, however, dyslexia is the most common cause of reading, writing, and spelling difficulties.

What is dyslexia? "Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge." Adopted by the IDA Board of Directors, Nov. 12, 2002. This Definition is also used by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). For more information visit: https://dyslexiaida.org

How is dyslexia diagnosed? When evaluating dyslexia, a variety of tests are administered in order to gather information about the student's skills, cognition, and areas of strength and weakness. Typically a neurologist or other licensed professional would provide a formal diagnosis. For more information visit: https://dyslexiaida.org/testing-and-evaluation/

What is the difference between a dyslexia evaluation and a dyslexia screening? Dyslexia screenings are designed to help educators determine if there are indications of dyslexia that may warrant further testing. They typically assess the areas of phonological awareness and rapid letter naming. A dyslexia evaluation, however, is more extensive and includes a variety of norm-referenced tests administered by medical or licensed professionals. The assessments offered at R.E.A.D. Intervention are dyslexia screeners and do not evaluate or diagnose students with dyslexia. However, I can refer you to a professional who performs evaluations for dyslexia.

What is Orton-Gillingham? The Orton-Gillingham approach has been in use since the 1930’s and was developed by neurologist Dr. Samuel T. Orton and educator, psychologist Anna Gillingham. This theory combines multi-sensory techniques along with the structure of the English language. Items taught include: phonemes, syllable types, affixes, roots, cutting patterns, non-phonetic sight words, and common spelling rules. Multi-sensory education incorporates auditory, kinesthetic, tactile, and visual learning pathways. For more information visit: https://www.ortonacademy.org/

What qualifies you to provide intervention for dyslexia? I am a certified Orton-Gillingham Teacher which means I can assess areas of strength and weakness in phonological awareness and provide intervention through the Orton-Gillingham method. To receive this certification, I completed four graduate courses in multi-sensory phonics instruction and 100 hours of tutoring dyslexic students under the supervision of Fairleigh Dickinson University Orton-Gillingham trainers. In order to maintain my certification, I take a minimum of 30 hours in dyslexia related coursework every three years.

What can I do while my child is having a session? There is a small waiting area outside the office, but parents are not required to say in the building during sessions. The office is conveniently located in the center of Bedminster TWP between the Hills Shopping Center and The Fresh Market. It is surrounded by numerous stores, restaurants, and salons, so feel free to drop off your child and run errands.

What if we have to cancel a session? Sometimes last minute issues can arise, however please make every effort to send an email (readintervene@gmail.com) or text (973-886-2351) 24 hours ahead of time to cancel an appointment.

How can I support my child’s reading at home? Read, read, read! Make reading a daily habit. Even reading for 10-15 minutes a night will help. Reading aloud books your child finds interesting is also important. Modeling fluent expressive reading and exposing your child to new vocabulary words will help support your child's reading progress.

What forms of payment do you accept? cash, check, Venmo

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