Orton Gillingham Approach
Orton-Gillingham is a research-based approach to teaching reading that has helped struggling readers for decades. It’s especially effective for students with dyslexia, but it also benefits many children who struggle with reading, writing, and spelling.
It was developed by Samuel T. Orton and Anna Gillingham, and is designed to teach literacy in a clear, structured, and step-by-step way.
Lessons are multisensory—meaning your child will see, say, hear, and write as they learn—helping concepts truly stick. Instruction is also explicit and builds in a logical sequence, so your child develops strong foundational skills instead of guessing or memorizing.
This approach aligns with Structured Literacy as defined by the International Dyslexia Association, focusing on the key skills needed for lasting success in reading, writing, and spelling.
What does this look like in real life?
Structured, Sequential, and Cumulative
We follow a clear, step-by-step plan, starting with foundational skills and building up. At the same time, I adjust instruction based on your child’s progress and revisit skills often so they stick.
Direct , Explicit, Synthetic, Analytic
I clearly explain and model each skill, then guide your child as they practice. Nothing is left to guess—your child is supported every step of the way. Your child learns how to read words by putting sounds together and how to spell by breaking words apart. These skills work together to strengthen both reading and spelling.
Simultaneous Multi-sensory & Emotionally Sound
Your child will be actively involved in learning—seeing, saying, hearing, and writing. Even though sessions are online, we use paper, pencil, and hands-on tools so learning really sticks. I create a calm, encouraging environment where your child feels safe to try, make mistakes, and grow—even if reading has been frustrating in the past.
Diagnostic and Prescriptive
I’m constantly adjusting instruction based on how your child is doing in the moment. If something isn’t clicking, I change how I teach it. Each lesson is built from what your child showed me the session before—so we’re always moving forward in the right way.
Benefits of Orton Gillingham
