Tutoring FAQS
WHAT METHODS DO YOU USE IN THE TUTORING PROCESS?
The Montessori Method, The Orton Gillingham Method and MACAR (Montessori Applied to Children at Risk) are all incorporated when working with children. Because no one method works for very child, it is important to use a variety of multi-sensory approaches to accommodate different learning styles and developmental needs.
CAN YOU BRIEFLY EXPLAIN THE MONTESSORI METHOD?
The Montessori Method of education, developed by Maria Montessori, is a child-centered approach to education based on scientific observations of children from birth to adulthood. Montessori’s method has been used for over 100 years and there are Montessori schools all over the world. Montessori is more than an approach to educating children. It is a view of how children develop and learn and how we can assist them in reaching their fullest potential. It is an approach that values the human spirit and the development of the whole child—physical, social, emotional, cognitive.
WHAT IS ORTON GILLINGHAM?
Based on early research in dyslexia by Dr. Samuel T. Orton and Anna Gillingham, the Orton Gillingham (OG) program was originally designed to teach individuals with dyslexia how to read but it has been used successfully with a variety of learners on a worldwide basis. Its multi-sensory approach: visual, auditory and kinesthetic/tactile works beautifully and in harmony with the Montessori approach to reading, writing and comprehension. Like Montessori the approach is deeply rooted in phonological awareness and enables students, by direct instruction, to review, to learn new skills and concepts and to practice and apply what they are learning. OG is systematic, structured, sequential, cumulative and success-orientated.
WHAT IS MONTESSORI APPLIED TO CHILDREN AT RISK? (MACAR)
MACAR is a specialized training for Montessori teachers and leaders to understand the specific needs of children at risk for learning differences and provide specific strategies for matching the Montessori educational method to those needs. It was developed by June Shelton (Shelton School and Evaluation Center, Dallas Texas) and is used by many Montessori educators in the USA and beyond. The aim of the program is to prepare a child more effectively for elementary school skills but will not cure or eliminate a learning disability. In addition to using the Montessori teaching materials, a program for reading, writing and spelling called SEE (Sequential English Education) is offered for students from kindergarten through elementary.
IN ADDITION TO OFFERING TUTORING DO YOU SCREEN CHILDREN FOR LEARNING PROBLEMS?
While educators may observe some of the signs consistent with a learning difference or dyslexia further assessment by a psychologist or other healthcare professional may be needed in order to actually diagnose the disorder. In most cases, testing for dyslexia is done by a licensed educational psychologist. Neurologists and other medical professionals may also be qualified to provide a formal diagnosis.
DO YOU WORK WITH CHILDREN WHO HAVE BEHAVOR PROBLEMS?
Because cooperation and active participation is required for success, a child with challenging behavior may not be able to give his full attention to the process. He may benefit more from alternative methods of intervention.
YOUR FEES ARE NOT PUBLISHED ON THE WEBSITE. WHY?
Because the needs of every child and family are unique, the services we offer are tailored to the individual needs of each child. The type, scope and duration of those services will be discussed during our initial consultation and customized accordingly.