Frequently Asked Questions

My child seems to be slow to pick-up reading - should I be concerned?

If your child is part of a classroom where a Structured Literacy program is in place and well implemented, delays can be seen as early as six months after they begin formal instruction. There is no need to "wait to fail" when you can access convenient, personalised, systematic support and perhaps even help your child get ahead. Children who feel successful are more likely to continue their reading journey with enthusiasm.

I suspect my child has Dyslexia but do not have a formal diagnosis. How much does this matter?

Whether or not your child has the diagnosis does not change the systematic, structured instructional approach that I utilize. My years of observation and assessment skills help me identify difficulties without titles being completely necessary. Students with dyslexia may need more practice opportunities, clear review at the beginning of each session and a logical sequence outlined for them so they continue to see their own progress and maintain self-confidence.

Do parents usually get involved in sessions?

Yes! Parents are some of the greatest catalysts for change. I will work with you to find opportunities throughout your typical day for practice. If I see your child at school, I will send simple, low-prep homework activities to speed-up progress. I will communicate goals and progress through planned phone calls or regular emails. You can always ask any questions you may have. 

Is my child's speech sound difficulty typical for their age anyway?

As a general rule of thumb familiar adults should understand 90% of what a three year-old says, 95% of what a four year old says and 100% of what a five-year old says. According to research by Gordon-Branna & Hodson (2000), if fewer than 2/3 of the utterances of a child aged 4;0 are understood - intervention is warranted. By six to six and a half years old, all speech sounds should be developed. If your child cannot say their "ch, j, sh, th, r, l, s-blends etc." they will be unlikely to be able to hear the sounds accurately as they learn to read these sounds and write the sounds accurately. 

What happens if I have to cancel a session?

You can let me know that you need to cancel by texting, emailing or calling with a minimum of 24 hours notice. If a session is cancelled within 24 hours of the appointment time 50% of the session fee will be charged. If a session is cancelled within two hours of the session (unless there are outstanding circumstances) 100% of the session fee will be charged as I do pre-planning and prep before the session and often link up travel times between appointments.

How many therapy sessions will my child need?

This will vary depending on your child's needs and is a difficult question to answer. I will always set clear goals with you and help teach you the strategies for continuing work on your child's goals outside of therapy sessions. Sometimes we start sessions off weekly or bi-weekly to make a strong start and then can ease off and schedule fortnightly sessions as momentum is gained and the new skills start generalizing.

Can teletherapy be effective for my child or situation?

Teletherapy can be just as effective as face-to-face therapy when an active, engaged parent is present and willing to give new ideas a go in an effort to support the child. Sometimes we get a bit silly to ensure we keep the child's engagement and may change the length or frequency of the sessions to better accommodate your child's needs. Teletherapy can be carried out using a home computer and headphones with a quiet background. Teletherapy can reduce travel time, and allow sessions to be completed when your child's attention is optimal.