My Teaching Methods
How I Help Your Child Succeed
When your child struggles with reading, it’s easy to think they just need to “try harder.”
But the truth is, effort isn’t the problem — your child is already working harder than most, with little to show for it.
The good news? Once we understand how their brain learns, reading doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle anymore.
My approach is designed to meet your child exactly where they are, building confidence and skills step by step until reading finally clicks.
Why Struggling Readers Struggle
About 1 in 5 children has dyslexia or another reading difficulty.
These are often bright, imaginative kids who can build Lego masterpieces or tell incredible stories — but reading just doesn’t “click.”
They may:
Guess at words or skip over them
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Struggle to connect letters and sounds
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Read slowly and lose confidence
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Mix up spelling, even for simple words
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Feel embarrassed or say, “I’m stupid”
The Truth
Here’s the truth: your child isn’t broken. Their brain just processes written language differently — and we can work with that difference, not against it.
Why the Barton Reading & Spelling System Works
After 40 years in education, I’ve found that the Barton Reading & Spelling System is one of the most effective, research-based programs available for children with dyslexia and other reading difficulties.
It works because it’s:
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Structured & Sequential –
Every sound and concept builds logically with no skipped steps.
Multisensory –
Kids see it, say it, hear it, and touch it, so learning “sticks.”
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Cumulative –
New skills continually reinforce what came before.
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Diagnostic & Flexible
Lessons adapt instantly to your child’s pace and progress.
This approach doesn’t just teach reading — it rewires how the brain processes language so your child can finally succeed.
What a Session Looks Like
Parents often ask, “What does tutoring actually look like?”
Here’s a peek inside a typical session:
Warm-Up (5 min): Confidence-building review games to start on a positive note.
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New Learning (20–30 min): Hands-on Barton instruction using colored tiles, sounds, and movement.
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Application (10–15 min): Reading and spelling practice using real words and short stories.
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Wrap-Up (5 min): Celebrate wins and preview what’s next, so your child leaves feeling successful.
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Posture and positioning affect writing success
Why In-Person Tutoring Matters
Online programs can be helpful, but children who struggle with reading need connection as much as instruction.
Real-Time Assessment
When I work side-by-side with your child, I can:
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See the moment confusion appears and adjust immediately
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Encourage them before frustration sets in
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Build trust that helps them feel safe to try again
Progress Monitoring
That’s what makes in-person learning so powerful — it’s personal, responsive, and full of hope.
Parent Quote:
“For the first time in years, homework isn’t a battle. Toni taught us how to support learning at home without the tears.”
Lisa P.
The Difference You’ll See
Learning by Observation
Most families notice early progress within the first few weeks.
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2–4 weeks: Less frustration and more willingness to try
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2–3 months: Noticeable gains in reading or spelling
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6–12 months: Major improvements in fluency and confidence
The greatest change isn’t just academic — it’s emotional. Kids begin to say, “I can do this.”
Parent Partnership
Parents are an essential part of this journey. You’ll receive:
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Regular updates on progress
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Simple at-home support strategies
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Tools to communicate with your child’s school
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Ongoing encouragement and clarity every step of the way
We’re a team — working together to rebuild confidence, skill, and joy in reading.
Real-World Success Stories
What I See in In-Person Sessions:
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Aha moments, when sounds suddenly make sense
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Physical excitement when students build their first words
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Confidence blooming through personal encouragement
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Fear dissolves in a safe, supportive environment
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Love of learning returns through successful experiences
The Transformation Process:
The Bottom Line
For children who struggle with reading, especially those with dyslexia, in-person tutoring using the Barton Method isn't just better - it's essential.
Why the Investment Is Worth It
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Faster progress through effective instruction
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Emotional healing alongside academic growth
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Lifelong love of learning restored
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Confidence that extends beyond reading
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Family peace as stress decreases and success increases
Effective Instruction for Every Reader
Every struggling reader deserves the most effective instruction possible. For elementary students with reading difficulties, that means sitting side-by-side with a caring, trained professional who can provide the multisensory, relationship-based instruction that transforms lives.
Ready to give your child the gift of confident reading? Let's discuss how in-person Barton Method tutoring can unlock their potential and restore their love of learning.
