Abby Crooks

I am a full-time, professional Barton tutor specializing in Dyslexia, reading development, and spelling skills. I have been certified at the Masters Level in the Barton Reading and Spelling System (all certifications were administered by the program developer, Susan Barton). I have also been certified to provide tutoring services remotely, using video conferencing and digital Barton materials.

I am able to provide tutoring services either in-person or remotely (online). For tutoring to be most effective, I recommend a minimum of two sessions per week (individual sessions last 60min). The Barton program consists of 10 Levels and typically takes approximately 2 years to complete. Completing the entire Barton program builds a student's reading and spelling skills to a mid-ninth grade level. Once a student has completed the program, my services are no longer needed.

Does a student need a diagnosis to begin tutoring?

No, a diagnosis is not required, but reading and spelling difficulties should be noticeable. Before starting the Barton program, I always administer a 10min screening to ensure the student’s basic skills are at an appropriate level to begin the Barton Program. Any students that fail to pass this initial screening are recommended to complete the LiPS program before any Orton-Gillingham program is started.

If you are planning on seeking a formal diagnosis, I recommend starting the process before tutoring, as our work will alter the results.

How long does it take to complete the entire program?

If a student completes a minimum of two sessions per week, it typically takes about two years. This timing depends on the student's individual needs and the frequency of our sessions.

How long does a lesson take?

I schedule one-hour sessions.

Do you have a system for encouraging hesitant or frustrated students?

Yes. The most common reason for students to be hesitant about tutoring (other than working with a new person) tends to be a lack of confidence. I am very positive and encouraging with all my students, regardless of age. My very first goal is to build confidence because this makes our work easier and allows the student to progress much faster. For younger students, or students needing extra encouragement, I use a prize system where students earn stamps for focused work during the session and are able to "purchase" prizes with them at the end of each day. These prizes are tailored to the student's age and interests.

How long will it take to see results?

You can expect to first see a change in confidence within the first month or two. From there, students typically begin to show a gradual change in their willingness to read, and by the end of Level 6 parents consistently start to notice dramatic changes on their child's skills.

Do you provide homework help?

I do not provide homework help until a student has completed the entire Barton program. The lessons I follow provide incremental, specific instruction to cover all reading and spelling patterns a student will come across. If I provided homework help before reaching this point, I would simply be encouraging previous habits and slow down the student’s progress.