It is a philosophy more than just a system to teach children how to read. Language Based Orton Gillingham is a technique of studying and teaching language, as well as understanding the nature of human language, the mechanisms involved in learning, and the language-learning process. Students learn the sound system of the language which is the foundation for reading and spelling. The Orton-Gillingham approach is multisensory. Sessions are action-oriented with auditory, visual, and kinesthetic elements reinforcing each other for optimal learning.
Spelling is taught simultaneously with reading.
In this respect, Orton-Gillingham differs from traditional phonics instruction. In addition to individualized treatment programs for reading and academic instruction, our Education Specialists offer structured, academic therapy groups for children with language-learning problems and attention deficit. These Learning Centers consist of 4-5 children per class and are staffed by a teacher and an aid. Our Learning Centers are designed to introduce children to the world of academics in a non-threatening, supportive manner. They have been highly successful in teaching at-risk children the skills they need to function in a classroom setting.