As a former reading specialist, my experience tells me that some children naturally pick up learning the alphabetic code very quickly, whereas others find it extremely difficult.
The latter would benefit from tutoring or small-group instruction based on the Orton-Gillingham Approach, a multisensory, incrementally designed instructional curriculum. Children grow physically at different times and at different rates; this is true for cognitive development, also. For example, I had a student that received small OG group instruction for multiple years in elementary school, and I later learned that he obtained a top 10 ranking in his senior class in high school.
Early intervention for those who need it would be a big advantage. The earlier the intervention, the better. Of course, other factors — such as parent involvement, the availability of books for reading aloud and the development of background knowledge, etc. — should complement the instruction.
Diane Fleming
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.
