We believe in going to back to the basics! We find and improve upon any cracks in the child's previous phonics foundation. We use a multisensory approach that helps students to retain information such as the sounds and symbols of our language. In addition, we train the child along with their parents in these methods so that parents have the knowledge, tools, and confidence to carry out home practice with their child between clinical sessions. Our teachers are trained in a variety of programs and methods. We pick and chose from these methods to create a plan that is best for each student we work with.
If a child is struggling with reading and school work, we want to get to the to root of the problem. We do this by addressing weak executive functioning and cognitive skills, such as, processing speed, auditory processing, visual processing and logic and reasoning. By improving upon these areas, we can help a child make huge gains in their academic journey!
At ALS, we offer two types of assessments to understand each child’s reading and learning profile:
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Diagnostic Educational (Academic) Evaluation – administered by a Licensed Educational Diagnostician(optional)
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Screener Assessment – administered by a Certified Reading Specialist (all new students begin here if a formal diagnosis is not needed)
Diagnostic Educational Evaluation
Our diagnostic evaluations are designed for children and young adults when Dyslexia or a related learning disorder is suspected. Related disorders may include Dysgraphia, Reading Fluency difficulties, or challenges in Written Expression.
The evaluation process includes:
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Gathering parent observations, background information, and a historical record of academic performance
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Completing a variety of academic tasks similar to school-based activities
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Using multiple assessment tools to identify strengths and areas of need
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Conducting a comprehensive 1:1 evaluation with a licensed educational diagnostician and certified dyslexia practitioner
Dyslexia is a Specific Learning Disability (SLD) affecting basic reading and/or reading fluency. Students with Dyslexia may experience:
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Difficulty with accurate or fluent word recognition
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Trouble with letter naming and letter-sound correspondence
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Poor spelling and decoding skills
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Phonological processing deficits that are unexpected relative to other cognitive abilities
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Secondary challenges such as reduced reading comprehension, limited reading experience, and slower growth in vocabulary and background knowledge
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Typically average math skills and strong listening comprehension
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Often a family history of similar reading difficulties
The goal of a diagnostic evaluation is to determine educational needs resulting from a disability and to identify whether a significant educational deficit exists that requires intervention or support.
Basic Screener Assessment
If a full diagnostic evaluation is not needed, all new students begin with a basic screener assessment. This assessment provides both families and our team with essential insight into a child’s reading skills, helping us design lessons tailored to their strengths and needs.
The screener serves as a starting point, guiding our individualized, evidence-based instruction to ensure each child receives the support most effective for their learning journey.
