FAQ

  • Far from your typical tutoring center, we’ve developed a unique formula to complement the personalized, diagnostic one-on-one instruction that is tailored to each student’s needs.

    Our goal has always been to create a safe, soothing space for children where they feel in control. As you enter the space, soft music and lighting welcome you. Past the doggy doors, you are greeted by furry faces and wagging tails. Mindful Reading Center is a special place, indeed. So come as you are while being heard, empowered, and supported.

    Some of the things that set us apart…

    • Small-Group Yoga Class: Kick off each visit with an engaging yoga class to set a positive tone.

    • Personalized Instruction: Enjoy individualized lessons with a certified Orton-Gillingham teacher who tailors learning experiences to suit your child's needs.

    • Brain Breaks: Children have the flexibility to choose how they would like to unplug, whether it's just for a minute or two, allowing them to return to their lesson with renewed energy and focus. The possibilities are limitless – they can explore our variety of sensory toys, enjoy some playtime with a friend, or cuddle with our loving therapy dogs, making each break fun and refreshing!

    • Therapy Dogs: Experience the calming and uplifting presence of friendly (and adorable) therapy dogs.

    • Social Interaction: Foster meaningful connections in a supportive, social environment.

    • Supportive Community: Mindful Reading Center is a nurturing community for the whole family. It takes a village, and we would love to be a part of yours.

    • Empowerment through Choices: Children have the freedom to make their own decisions, promoting independence and confidence.

    • Flexible Spaces: Customizable spaces designed to adapt to each child's unique preferences.

    • Caregiver Experience: We know you are busy. For 70 minutes out of your day, relax, and let us take over. When you drop off your child, you might choose to run errands, unwind on our couch, work on your laptop, or connect with other MRC parents!

  • Dyslexia is a condition that affects learning by making it hard to read words accurately and quickly and to spell and understand them. This happens because of issues with how the brain processes sounds and language, which can be surprising because other cognitive skills may be typical or even superior. Secondary effects often include trouble understanding what is read and a delayed development of vocabulary and factual information.

    According to the International Dyslexia Association, “Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.

  • Orton-Gillingham is a scientifically proven method of structured literacy instruction. It is used for teaching reading, writing, and spelling, and is particularly beneficial for individuals with dyslexia or learning differences. Certified teachers undergo rigorous training to provide clear and consistent instruction that connects letters with sounds, making learning more effective.

    This approach enhances reading accuracy and fluency, while also strengthening spelling, writing, and vocabulary skills through hands-on techniques that engage multiple senses.

    Having an Orton-Gillingham certified teacher means your child receives personalized lessons tailored to their specific learning challenges and needs. These teachers excel at identifying and addressing difficulties in reading and writing, boosting the student's confidence and enthusiasm for learning. By following structured lessons that include review, assessment, and new material introduction in a logical sequence, Orton-Gillingham certified teachers create a supportive learning environment. This approach helps students succeed independently in reading and other academic tasks.

  • Does your child…

    • confuse letters and/or numbers?

    • have trouble remembering letter sounds?

    • have difficulty with spelling?

    • use imprecise language?

    • frequently misread/omit high-frequency words or more simple words?

    • avoid reading and writing?

    • struggle with homework?

    We recognize that many children face literacy challenges that may not meet the criteria for a dyslexia diagnosis. Nevertheless, we believe in the effectiveness of direct, explicit, multi-sensory instruction for all learners. We welcome all students who can benefit from personalized and intensive literacy instruction.

  • We teach students mindful movement to foster resilience and perseverance while establishing lifelong literacy skills. These practices also help build positive brain connections in academic and emotional capacities.

    Some other benefits of mindfulness and yoga…

    • Creates a sense of physical and emotional self-awareness

    • Builds self-esteem

    • Promotes stress management tools

    • Improves focus and attention

    • Provides healthy movement

    • Teaches students self-regulation strategies

    • Provides students with practical tools that they can use independently

    • Supports social-emotional learning