I get these questions a lot. Here are my best answers...
Does my child need a diagnosis?
While a diagnosis may be helpful in identifying specific weaknesses and providing access to accommodations, it is not a requirement for receiving instruction. Diagnostic testing provides a "snapshot" of where the learner is at a moment in time and does not, determine an individual's potential for future success.
Can I just do Equipping Minds?
Yes. Equipping Minds strengthens the brain and improves cognitive function which generalizes to all subject areas. It benefits learners of all ages and stages.
Do you offer in-person lessons?
All lessons are done remotely on Zoom. This allows lessons to be done from anywhere with an internet connection.
Can you diagnose dyslexia or other learning differences?
I do not do diagnostic testing, but I can provide recommendations for local professionals.
Can we stop lessons over the summer?
Unfortunately, because so much progress is lost with such a long break, students are required to continue lessons throughout the year. Exceptions are made for holidays and short (less than 2 weeks) family vacations.
What if I can't afford private lessons?
Equipping Minds and the Barton Reading & Spelling System are both available for families to purchase and use on their own. For information on how to personally implement these programs, please contact me.
Can I just do Barton Reading & Spelling?
Because difficulty learning to read often has root causes that need to be addressed through cognitive development, I provide all Barton students with brain strengthening activities using the Equipping Minds Cognitive Development Curriculum. 50 minutes/Barton + 10 minutes/Equipping Minds = 60 minute lesson.
How long will it take to complete the program?
The Equipping Minds program requires a minimum of 4 lessons/week totaling 60 hours of instruction to affect change in how the brain processes information. More time may be required depending on the needs of the individual student. The Barton program requires a minimum of 2 hours a week and can take from 3-5 years for the average student to complete the entire program.
What ages do you work with?
Equipping Minds can be used with students ages 3 years and older. Barton is used with ages 5 years and older.