How One on One Tutoring Turned Matthewā€™s Reading Struggles into Success
When Matthew (name changed for privacy) first started tutoring, reading was a source of frustration and tears. He struggled with recognizing letter names and sounds, making each session a challenge. His frustration often led to protests and arguments over tutoring sessions. However with perseverance, parent support, individualized instruction and a LOT of encouragement, Matthew has made tremendous progress in his reading abilities! He is now demonstrating the ability to blend sounds consistently, recognizes blends and digraphs, knows a number of sight words, and most importantly shows up to school as a much more confident reader. He attends tutoring sessions with a great attitude and even expressed that he missed seeing his tutor upon returning from a recent three week family vacation to Mexico.
The Approach:
There were two main strategies that were used when working with Matthew. 1. Confidence building (for both student AND parents)- Matthew began tutoring with low confidence. He identified as a poor reader and knew he was behind. Even his parents were worried, expressing that with a diagnosis of dyslexia, they wondered if he would ever learn to read. I calmly reassured them that although he was undoubtedly behind, given the right supports he WOULD be able to read. Together as a team, tutor and family, we worked on celebrating all his small wins. When he knew 5 letters one day and 6 the next, we all celebrated him together.
Over time, Matthew’s self image began to change. He started to identify as a reader, and loved counting all the words he read in a story, and how many letters in the big words he read.
- Meeting him EXACTLY where he was at all times- Matthew was far below grade level. He was repeating kindergarten and was “supposed to” know his letter names and sounds. Rather than working on exactly what his classmates were working on, I ran assessments and started him off right at his level. This also meant adjusting in real time to his needs during a tutoring session. On many occasions, I switched up the lesson plan on the spot to account for frustration and fatigue. Over time, frustration lessened and each session became less and less of a struggle for both parents and the student.
Where we are today:
Matthew continues to receive tutoring services. He’s been working hard all summer to continue filling in the gaps that resulted from a late start to reading. He is blending up to five sounds together, recognizing common sight words and comprehending grade level passages. Initially his parents wanted him to take a break and enjoy his summer, but ultimately they recognized that his sacrifices now will ultimately pay off and benefit him throughout his academic career and beyond.
Next Steps:
Although he is reading and comprehending within his grade level, fluency continues to be a struggle. As Matthew enters into first grade, we will target fluency along with reinforcing new phonics skills learned at school.
Reflections:
Matthew’s parents and teachers have all been amazed at his turnaround. His journey from struggling with basic letter names and sounds to confidently tackling longer, more complex words is a testament to individualized, one on one instruction from tutoring. His transformation is an exciting example of how time, dedication and tailored support can lead to significant academic progress and achievement.
If your child is struggling with reading, please do not wait to seek help. Early intervention is key to ensuring your child’s future academic success. Click here to schedule a free consultation and assessment for your child.
