Reading is hard, but you can do this

This message is intended for you to read to your child.

You have heard it before. “You can learn to read… you just need to practice more.”

A simple comment. A nice intention. Meant to be encouraging. And yet… it’s confusing and frustrating. You are probably thinking, “I am practicing. I am trying.” Or wondering, “am I stupid? Or maybe they are right… maybe I am lazy.”

You are not stupid. You are not lazy.

I’m going to say it again.

You are not stupid. You are not lazy.

We know that. We know you have tried to practice. We know you want to read. And we will help you.

• First, being able to read does not mean you are smart. Not being able to read does not mean you are stupid.

• Second, if practicing worked, you wouldn’t be on this blog. You and your parents can practice at home. So, it’s not about how much you try, or how much you practice those words. It’s about HOW you practice them. Frankly, no one has ever taught you the skills you need to practice.

That’s what Orton Gillingham is all about! Listen, it’s not about reading more. It’s about understanding the patterns of the language.

Here’s the promise; we won’t make you read random books out loud. We will teach you how to see the patterns of the language and we will do it through activities. Not by torturing you with “read aloud” and “read along.” One day, you might even be comfortable with reading along and then reading out loud…. I know you don’t believe me right now. But, I know you can do this.

Until you believe in yourself, I’ll believe in you.

How do I know you can do this? Why does it matter what I think? My friend, I’ve been in your shoes. I couldn’t read. I couldn’t spell. And here I am now, writing to you! The key isn’t practicing more. The key is Orton Gillingham intervention! I’ve gone through it and now, I teach it. I’ve even written you a letter, shared my story, so you know you’re not alone.

So, you give it a try. One more time. It’s not like school. My promise is that this will be different.