Looking for Dramatic Reading, Spelling, and Writing Help for Son.

Go to firstfocusphonics.com. Lynne Hansen who started her own program is phenomenal. Tell her that K. Wilson recommended her. Thanks!

I am guessing that you have talked with his teacher about this. The school resource specialist can do some testing to see what the problem is and should come up with some strategies to help him. While I think there is nothing wrong with going outside the school system to get tutoring, you can explore what the school can do for you first (for free if you don't count your taxes as payment.) Even if you do go outside for help, you can take the test results with you and you will have a better idea what services you are looking for. You may end up having to write a letter requesting testing. Some schools are more resistant than others to put things into motion especially with the current economy. Send me a message if you have any questions.

I would not recommend lindamood bell. We spent a summer there doing their vv program and saw very little improvement. They work on either comprehension or phonics not both. Look up barton reading and spelling to find a tutor in your area. Good luck!

N.,
My daughter (who is not your son's age) is currently in Kumon. There is a whole philosophy behind it that I think would benefit you to look into. They have been helping children for 50 years with great success. Kids from 3 to college. It is $100 a month. It also does require some of your time as well working w/ your son at home (5-10 min. a day). But since you posted this question it's obvious you're looking to help him. I know they have several locations including Saratoga so check out there website. Great job being an advocate for your son!! Good Luck,
Nicole

Try the Reading Clinic in Saratoga. It is located in the Quito shopping center by Gene's Fine Foods. I had good success with my son there four years ago and I know of other families that have had great success there as well. It is kind of a take off of Linda Mood Bell for they implement many of the same practices to help children. I remember their cost being not as expensive as Linda Mood Bell. Good luck.

N.,

Have you tried Hooked On Phonic. It helps kids read. Usually, if you know how to read. You'll learn how to write.
It takes lots of practice at home & school. I would try Sylvan for tutorial service or any local tutoring services too. You can check out and compare prices.

I can highly recommend Hooked on Phonics. I have been using the program with my 1st grader for 2 months now and we are now 2/3 of the way through it. He has improved tremendously!! He really enjoys it too. We do it an average of 20 minutes a day every day. I bought it from ebay for just under $100. I worked it out with his teacher to incoroporate our H.O.P time into our homework time so he can do a little less of the class assigned homework.

My daughter had a classmate that had similar issues to your son. He went to "The Reading Clinic" in Saratoga to get help. Sorry I can't personally recommend it, but the boy's mom told me it was helping him.

Good luck!
D.

Hi N. M.,

Is your son in a public school? Have you talked to any of his teachers about this problem and your concern? If not, do. Tell you son's teacher that you want him tested and depending on the results, considered for an IEP. This is a program that will identify his problem, give your son extra help to address his needs and/or make allowances for his "disablility". You will also receive guidance on how to help him at home. Once you've asked to have him tested, the schools have a limited time before they have to do it. Make note of the date you make your request, or better yet, put it in writing. Good luck. Remember, the teachers and school staff devote their lives to helping kids, but the pathway to each child's best learning mode is not always clear. NancyA.

Try www.readingboosters.com. R. provides private, in-home and online instruction using the Lindamood-Bell programs.