The below classes are all taught online. They are annual classes, but can be registered for on a monthly basis by clicking on the “Shop” tab and locating the name and date of the class. There is no annual commitment. All time are Eastern Standard Time. All classes are $12 per class, with the exception of the longer Food for Thought which is $18. Date specific information is listed under the class tab in the “Store”.
Reading I (ages 4-6) Tuesdays 930 - 0955
Welcome to our Dyslexia-Friendly Beginner Learn to Read class! Tailored for children ages 4 to 6, this program employs Orton-Gillingham best practices to provide a structured and supportive learning environment. Our goal is to help young learners develop essential reading skills while embracing their unique learning styles.
Objectives:
Build phonemic awareness through fun, engaging activities that focus on sound recognition and manipulation.
Introduce letter recognition and sound associations using a multisensory approach.
Foster early vocabulary development through interactive storytelling and play.
Create a positive and encouraging atmosphere that promotes confidence in reading.
Activities:
Multisensory Techniques: Incorporate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic methods, such as using tactile letters and rhythmic games to reinforce learning.
Structured Lessons: Use clear, consistent routines to help children grasp new concepts, including direct instruction and guided practice.
Storytime Adventures: Engage children with interactive read-aloud sessions that include repetition, rhymes, and captivating illustrations.
Creative Play: Encourage learning through songs, movement activities, and crafts that relate to the letters and sounds being taught.
Environment: Our classroom is designed to be warm and inviting, featuring colorful resources and materials that cater to diverse learning needs. We prioritize a sense of community where every child feels supported and celebrated.
By the end of this class, students will have developed foundational reading skills in a dyslexia-friendly environment, setting the stage for a lifelong love of reading!
Reading II (ages 5-7) Thursdays 0930 - 0955
Welcome to our Dyslexia-Friendly Second Stage Beginner Learn to Read class! Designed for children ages 5 to 7, this program utilizes Orton-Gillingham best practices to support diverse learners, particularly those with dyslexia. We focus on systematic, multisensory approaches to build strong reading skills and foster a love for literacy.
Objectives:
Reinforce phonemic awareness and decoding skills using structured phonics instruction.
Introduce high-frequency sight words through repetition and context to aid recognition.
Enhance reading fluency and comprehension through engaging, supportive activities.
Develop confidence in reading by providing a safe space for exploration and learning.
Activities:
Multisensory Learning: Use visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities, such as letter tiles and sand tracing, to reinforce sound-letter connections.
Structured Lessons: Follow a clear, consistent lesson plan that includes direct instruction, guided practice, and independent reading.
Engaging Read-Alouds: Share books with predictable patterns and supportive illustrations to enhance comprehension and retention.
Small Group Work: Foster collaboration through peer interactions, allowing children to practice reading in a supportive environment.
Environment: Our classroom is a welcoming space with a variety of accessible reading materials and resources designed for dyslexic learners. We emphasize positive reinforcement and celebrate individual progress, helping each child feel valued and confident.
By the end of this class, students will have developed essential reading skills tailored to their needs, setting them on a path to becoming enthusiastic, capable readers!
Executive Functioning (ages 8-16) Thursdays 11-1125am
Welcome to our Executive Functioning Skills class, designed specifically for children with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning disabilities. This program focuses on essential skills such as planning, organization, time management, and decision-making, empowering students to manage information and impulses effectively.
Objectives:
Help students develop strategies to prioritize tasks and make informed decisions.
Teach techniques for breaking down larger tasks into manageable steps.
Foster self-advocacy by encouraging students to identify their strengths and challenges.
Activities:
Visual Cues and Step-by-Step Instructions: Use visual aids and structured guidance to help students understand and follow tasks clearly.
To-Do Lists and Post-It Notes: Teach students how to create personalized to-do lists and use post-it notes as reminders for tasks and deadlines.
Self-Advocacy Posters: Guide students in creating posters that highlight their individual learning strategies, promoting self-awareness and advocacy.
Executive Function Educator Checklist: Introduce a checklist that helps students track their progress and identify effective strategies for their unique needs.
Regular Check-Ins: Facilitate ongoing check-ins to assess what strategies are working, offering support and adjustments as needed.
Environment: Our classroom is a supportive space that encourages collaboration and open communication. We emphasize a growth mindset, celebrating small victories and providing a safe environment for students to explore their executive functioning skills.
By the end of this class, students will have gained practical tools and strategies to enhance their executive functioning skills, leading to improved organization, time management, and decision-making in both academic and everyday situations!
The Lexicon Lab (ages 8-16 in 2 sections) Tuesdays (Lab I) and Thursdays (Lab II) 1130-1155am
Welcome to our Vocabulary Building course, designed to enhance language skills across all age groups—Lab I is designed for ages 8-13 and Lab II is designed for ages 14-16, however students of any age can take either or both. This engaging program focuses on expanding vocabulary with a particular emphasis on the 1,000 most common words found on the SAT, helping students prepare for academic success while making learning enjoyable.
Objectives:
Introduce and reinforce age-appropriate vocabulary tailored to each grade level.
Equip students with the tools to understand and use the most common SAT words confidently.
Foster a love for language through interactive and multisensory learning experiences.
Activities:
Advance Word Lists: Students will receive curated lists of vocabulary words in advance, allowing them to familiarize themselves before class.
Interactive Games: Engage in a variety of games—such as word bingo, matching, and charades—to reinforce word meanings and usage in a fun, dynamic way.
Creative Activities: Participate in hands-on projects like word art, storytelling, and role-playing scenarios that incorporate new vocabulary in context.
Group Discussions: Encourage collaborative learning through discussions that challenge students to use new words in conversation, enhancing retention and understanding.
Environment: Our classroom is designed to be vibrant and inviting, fostering a sense of community where students feel motivated to explore and experiment with language. We emphasize positivity and encouragement, celebrating individual progress and growth.
By the end of this course, students will have significantly expanded their vocabulary, equipped with essential skills to excel academically and prepare for future standardized tests. Join us for a fun and enriching journey into the world of words!
Grammar Gurus (Ages 10-16) Thursdays 12-1225pm
Welcome to Dyslexia-Friendly Grammar Fixers, a class designed specifically for students ages 10 to 16 who want to improve their grammar skills in a supportive, engaging environment. This course focuses on the 100 most common grammar mistakes and provides clear, practical strategies for correcting them, all while utilizing dyslexia-friendly teaching methods.
Objectives:
Identify and understand the 100 most common grammar mistakes.
Learn effective strategies to correct these errors through interactive activities.
Build confidence in writing and speaking by improving grammatical accuracy.
Foster a positive attitude toward grammar and language arts.
Activities:
Multisensory Learning: Incorporate visual aids, auditory explanations, and hands-on activities to engage different learning styles.
Error Spotting Games: Participate in fun games that challenge students to identify and fix common grammar mistakes in sentences.
Collaborative Practice: Work in small groups to edit each other’s writing, providing support and encouragement while learning from peers.
Real-Life Applications: Use relatable examples and writing prompts to practice grammar skills in context, helping students see the relevance of what they’re learning.
Environment: Our classroom is a welcoming space designed to promote inclusivity and confidence. We emphasize positive reinforcement, celebrating progress and providing individual support tailored to each student’s needs.
By the end of this class, students will have a solid understanding of key grammar concepts, equipped with the skills to avoid common mistakes and enhance their writing and communication. Join us for a fun and enriching grammar adventure!
Lexical Legacy (ages 8-16) Thursdays 1130-1155am
Welcome to Language Roots for Vocabulary and Testing Success, a dyslexia-friendly class designed to enhance vocabulary knowledge through the study of Greek, Latin, and French roots. This course is tailored for students seeking to improve their language skills while preparing for standardized testing.
Objectives:
Explore the meanings and applications of common Greek, Latin, and French roots.
Develop strategies to decode unfamiliar words, enhancing reading comprehension and vocabulary retention.
Apply root knowledge to boost proficiency in standardized tests, including vocabulary sections.
Foster a positive attitude toward language learning through engaging, multisensory activities.
Activities:
Multisensory Approaches: Utilize visual aids, hands-on activities, and auditory exercises to support various learning styles and enhance understanding.
Root Word Games: Participate in interactive games and challenges that reinforce the meanings of roots and help students recognize word patterns.
Test-Taking Strategies: Practice applying root knowledge in the context of standardized test questions, focusing on critical thinking and vocabulary application.
Real-World Applications: Analyze vocabulary in context through reading passages, discussions, and writing exercises, connecting roots to everyday language use.
Environment: Our classroom is a welcoming and supportive space that encourages exploration and collaboration. We prioritize positive reinforcement, celebrating each student's progress and ensuring that individual needs are met.
By the end of this course, students will have a strong foundation in Greek, Latin, and French roots, equipping them with the tools to enhance their vocabulary and succeed in standardized testing. Join us on this empowering journey to unlock the power of language!
Common Cents: Startup Studio (ages 8-18) Tuesdays 11-1125am
Welcome to our Dyslexia-Friendly Business & Entrepreneurship Class, specially designed for aspiring young entrepreneurs ages 8-18! This dynamic course provides the tools and knowledge needed to start a successful business, empowering students to turn their ideas into reality in a supportive, multisensory environment.
Objectives:
Understand key concepts of entrepreneurship, including legal structures, product selection, and market research.
Learn essential marketing strategies to effectively promote products and services.
Explore financial fundamentals such as budgeting, taxes, and accounting, including hands-on experience with QuickBooks.
Gain practical skills in website building, branding (logos and trademarks), packaging, and insurance.
Activities:
Hands-On Workshops: Participate in interactive sessions covering topics like dropshipping, payments, and bank accounts, ensuring practical, real-world application.
Website Creation: Build a simple, user-friendly website for your business, focusing on design and essential features.
Brand Development: Create your business logo and learn about trademarking to protect your brand identity.
Networking Opportunities: Engage in activities that build networking skills, culminating in a final pitch presentation to peers and potential mentors.
Real-World Simulations: Practice budgeting and scaling your business through group projects and individual assignments.
Outcome: By the end of the year, students will have launched their own businesses, equipped with the confidence and skills to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape. Each participant will present their business model and showcase their products in a final pitch event.
Environment: Our classroom fosters a collaborative and encouraging atmosphere, where creativity is celebrated and every student feels supported. We prioritize a positive learning experience, ensuring that each individual’s unique strengths are harnessed.
Join us on this exciting entrepreneurial journey, and watch your ideas come to life!
Common Cents: Finance Fun-damentals (ages 10-16) Tuesdays 1030-1055am
Welcome to our Dyslexia-Friendly Personal Finance Class, designed for students ages 12-16! This engaging course empowers young learners to develop essential financial skills, fostering confidence and independence in managing their money.
Objectives:
Understand the fundamentals of personal banking, including opening and managing a bank account.
Learn effective budgeting techniques to track income and expenses.
Explore the responsible use of credit cards and the importance of credit scores.
Gain insights into saving strategies and the benefits of setting financial goals.
Familiarize students with basic tax concepts and responsibilities.
Activities:
Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on activities that teach budgeting, savings plans, and how to analyze spending habits.
Real-Life Simulations: Engage in role-playing scenarios that mimic banking and credit card usage to reinforce learning.
Visual Tools: Use charts, graphs, and color-coded materials to make complex financial concepts easier to understand.
Group Discussions: Collaborate with peers to discuss financial decisions, share experiences, and learn from one another.
Environment: Our classroom is a welcoming space that encourages exploration and open conversation about money management. We prioritize a supportive atmosphere, celebrating each student’s progress and unique contributions.
By the end of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions, setting a strong foundation for their financial futures. Join us on this exciting journey to financial literacy!
Food for Thought (ages 8-16) Tuesdays 12-1245pm
Welcome to Food for Thought, a hands-on cooking class designed for children! This exciting program combines geography, history, culture, and science through the art of cooking, allowing students to explore the world one dish at a time. Students will be supplied with complete recipes, adaptable to Vegetarian, Gluten/Dairy/Egg/Nut free, Kosher, and Halal. By the end of the course students will have a fully customized cookbook featuring appetizer, entree, and dessert recipes from around the world that they can now prepare for family and friends!
Objectives:
Discover the culinary traditions of different countries and regions while learning about their geographical and historical contexts.
Understand the science behind cooking techniques, ingredients, and flavor combinations.
Foster appreciation for diverse cultures through food, storytelling, and shared experiences.
Activities:
Hands-On Cooking Lessons: Each class features a new recipe from a different part of the world, where students will actively participate in preparing, cooking, and tasting dishes.
Cultural Exploration: Learn about the history and traditions associated with each recipe, including the origins of ingredients and cooking methods.
Scientific Experiments: Explore the science of cooking, such as the chemical reactions that occur during baking or the effects of temperature on food.
Geography Games: Engage in fun activities that highlight the geographical locations of the cuisines we explore, enhancing map-reading and spatial skills.
Environment: Our kitchen classroom is a vibrant, welcoming space where creativity flourishes. We encourage teamwork and collaboration, allowing students to share their experiences and learn from one another.
By the end of this course, students will not only have developed valuable cooking skills but also gained a deeper understanding of the world through its diverse culinary practices. Join us on this delicious journey of discovery!
The Art of Story: A Hero’s Journey
Welcome to The Hero's Journey: A Year of Writing Adventure, an immersive writing class designed for young storytellers! Over the course of the year, students will explore the traditional hero's journey, learning the five key stages while drawing inspiration from the works of Christopher Vogler, Joseph Campbell, and other influential writers.
Objectives:
Understand the structure of the hero's journey and its application in storytelling.
Develop creative writing skills through monthly chapter assignments, focusing on character development, plot progression, and thematic depth.
Receive personalized feedback and editing assistance to refine writing skills and enhance storytelling abilities.
Gain insights into the publishing industry, including understanding literary agents, traditional publishing routes, and alternative options.
Activities:
Monthly Writing Assignments: Each student will write one chapter per month, incorporating the elements of the hero's journey, with guidance on structure and pacing.
Peer Feedback Sessions: Participate in collaborative workshops where students share their work and provide constructive feedback to one another.
Literary Exploration: Review and discuss selected texts that exemplify the hero’s journey, analyzing how authors utilize this structure to engage readers.
Publishing Overview: Learn about the publishing world, including how to prepare query letters, research literary agents, and explore self-publishing options.
Environment: Our classroom is a creative and supportive space where young writers feel empowered to express their ideas and develop their unique voices. We encourage collaboration and celebrate each student’s progress throughout the year.
By the end of this course, students will have crafted a complete first draft of their own novel, ready for submission to agents or publishing houses. Join us on this epic writing journey, where imagination meets storytelling!
Saga Seekers: Irish Myths and Legends (ages 9-16) Tuesdays 10 - 1025 am
Welcome to Saga Seekers: Irish Myths and Legends, an exciting course designed for young adventurers! Each week, we will explore a different Irish legend, immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of Irish mythology while examining its four cycles: the Mythological Cycle, the Ulster Cycle, the Fenian Cycle, and the Historical Cycle.
Objectives:
Discover the key narratives within each of the four cycles of Irish mythology, understanding their significance and themes.
Explore the connections between geography, gods and goddesses, and the legendary tales that shape Ireland's cultural landscape.
Learn about the oral storytelling traditions of the Seanchaí and how these stories were passed down through generations.
Delve into the fascinating world of mythical creatures and the important cultural events we celebrate today, such as Samhain, Imbolc, and Beltane.
Activities:
Weekly Legend Exploration: Each week, we’ll dive into a specific Irish legend, discussing its characters, themes, and cultural context through storytelling and discussion.
Creative Projects: Engage in hands-on activities that relate to the week’s legend, such as crafting mythical creatures or creating art inspired by the stories.
Geography Connections: Use maps to trace the origins of each legend, linking the tales to specific locations in Ireland.
Cultural Celebrations: Learn about modern celebrations of traditional festivals and how they relate to the legends we study, bringing ancient practices to life.
Environment: Our classroom is a vibrant, inclusive space that fosters creativity and collaboration. We encourage curiosity and respect for cultural traditions, making every student feel valued as we explore these timeless tales.
By the end of this course, students will have a rich understanding of Irish mythology, its historical roots, and the enduring impact of these stories on our culture today. Join us for a journey through the enchanting world of Irish legends!
The Bluestocking’s Book Club for Young Girls (ages 10-16)
Welcome to the Bluestocking Book Club for Young Girls, a vibrant and inspiring space where young readers can explore literature and celebrate female empowerment! In this weekly club, we will read one book each month, focusing on stories with strong, independent female protagonists who embody the spirit of the bluestocking women of the 1800s.
Objectives:
Foster a love for reading through engaging discussions about literature featuring female protagonists.
Promote confidence, independence, and free thinking in young girls by exploring themes of empowerment and resilience.
Encourage creativity and critical thinking through related activities that connect to the stories we read.
Activities:
Monthly Book Discussions: Dive deep into the book of the month, discussing characters, themes, and the lessons learned from their journeys.
Creative Projects: Participate in activities inspired by the book, such as crafting, writing, or performing skits that reflect the characters’ experiences and challenges.
Guest Speakers: Invite local authors, educators, or inspiring women from various fields to share their experiences and insights on the importance of female representation in literature.
Thematic Celebrations: Organize special events that celebrate themes from our readings, such as a “Confidence Day” or a “Free Thinkers’ Festival,” where members can showcase their own ideas and projects.
Environment: Our club meets in a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, encouraging open dialogue and camaraderie among members. We celebrate each girl’s voice and perspective, making sure everyone feels valued and heard.
By the end of the year, members will not only have read a diverse selection of empowering literature but also developed a strong sense of self-confidence and the belief that they can achieve their dreams. Join us in this journey of discovery, creativity, and empowerment through the pages of inspiring books!