Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get started?
The first step is to book a complimentary consultation. We'll discuss your child's needs, answer your questions, and determine whether JenniBean Language Services is the right fit for your family. If we decide to move forward, we'll schedule the initial assessment and begin developing a personalized learning plan.
Does my child need a diagnosis of dyslexia or ADHD before beginning lessons?
No. A formal diagnosis is not required to begin lessons. Many students benefit from structured literacy instruction regardless of whether they have received a diagnosis. If your child has an Individual Education Plan (IEP), psychoeducational assessment, or other relevant reports, these can be helpful in developing an individualized learning plan.
How do I know if my child would benefit from intervention?
Your child may benefit from literacy intervention if they:
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Avoid reading or writing;
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Struggle with spelling;
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Read slowly or inaccurately;
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Have difficulty sounding out unfamiliar words;
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Become frustrated during homework;
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Have been identified as at-risk in reading;
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Have dyslexia, ADHD, or another language-based learning difference; and/or
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Would benefit from additional confidence and support.
What if my child lacks confidence or is reluctant to participate in lessons?
This is a very common concern, and one I understand well. My goal is to create a positive, encouraging environment where students feel safe to learn, ask questions, and make mistakes. Lessons are designed to be engaging, appropriately challenging, and focused on celebrating progress. As students begin to experience success, confidence naturally grows - and many come to look forward to their learning sessions.
If you're unsure, I'd be happy to discuss your concerns during a complimentary consultation.
Getting Started
Orton-Gillingham
Is Orton-Gillingham only for students with dyslexia or ADHD?
No. Although the Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach is widely recognized as one of the most effective methods for supporting students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences, it benefits many learners. Because OG uses a structured, systematic, and multi-sensory approach to teaching reading and writing, it can help any student who would benefit from explicit literacy instruction.
What are the benefits of Orton-Gillingham tutoring?
The Orton-Gillingham approach is recognized worldwide as an effective method of teaching reading and writing. Instruction is structured, sequential, multi-sensory, and individualized to each learner. Students often experience improvements in:
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Reading accuracy and fluency;
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Spelling;
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Reading comprehension;
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Written expression;
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Confidence;
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Independence; and
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Enjoyment of reading.
Most importantly, students begin to believe in themselves as capable learners.
Personalized 1:1 Intervention
Are learning sessions individual or group-based?
All learning sessions are provided one-on-one to ensure every student receives individualized instruction. Each lesson is carefully planned and tailored to meet the student's unique strengths, learning needs, and goals.
How long are learning sessions?
Learning sessions are 60 minutes in length. This provides sufficient time for direct instruction, guided practice, review, and activities that reinforce learning while maintaining student engagement.
How often will my child participate in lessons?
For most students, interverntion is recommended two to three times per week to promote consistent progress and skill development. During your consultation, we'll discuss a schedule that best meets your child's needs and learning goals.
What can we expect during learning sessions?
Every learning journey begins with a comprehensive diagnostic assessment. This assessment helps identify your child's current strengths and areas for growth by evaluating skills such as phonemic awareness, letter-sound relationships, decoding, spelling, handwriting, sight word recognition, and reading fluency. The results are used to develop an individualized learning plan.
Every learning session that follows this assessment includes both a review of known concepts and a focus on new skill development. Games and activities are often used to practice sounds, words, and concepts. Sessions are highly structured and the time passes quickly for both me and the student.
Do you assign homework?
No. However, students are encouraged to practice the new skills they learned following their learning session. This could be a new sound, sight word, or concept. Students are often excited to share what they learned with a parent, sibling, or friend, providing reinforcement of the concept.
Communication and Progress
How will I know if my child is making progress?
You'll receive a written summary of your child's initial diagnostic assessment, followed by quarterly progress reports outlining growth, accomplishments, and recommended next steps. I also welcome ongoing communication and encourage parents to reach out with questions or updates at any time.
Will you work with my child's classroom teacher or Special Education Resource Teacher (SERT)?
Yes. With your written permission and when appropriate, I am happy to collaborate with your child's classroom teacher, Special Education Resource Teacher (SERT), or other educational professionals. Working together helps ensure consistent support and shared learning goals.
How long will my child need one-on-one support?
Every learner is different. The length of intervention depends on your child's starting point, learning goals, and how frequently sessions occur. During the initial consultation and assessment, I'll provide recommendations based on your child's individual needs.
How is JenniBean Language Services different from other learning providers?
Every learning session is personalized to meet the unique needs of the learner. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all program, instruction is guided by ongoing assessment, evidence-based teaching practices, and the Orton-Gillingham approach. My goal is not only to strengthen reading and writing skills but also to help students build confidence, independence, and a positive relationship with learning.
Practical Information
Which age groups do you work with?
I work with children, teens, and adults who wish to develop or strengthen their literacy skills.
Do you offer virtual lessons?
Yes. Virtual learning sessions are available for students across Canada. Online sessions use interactive teaching strategies and structured literacy techniques to provide an engaging and effective learning experience.
Where are in-person sessions held?
In-person sessions are provided in Newmarket, Ontario.
What should my child bring to their learning session?
Most instructional materials are provided. If additional materials are required, I'll let you know in advance. Students should simply come ready to learn with a positive attitude and a willingness to try their best.
What are your fees?
Learning sessions are $75 each.
