Academic Department

If a child cannot learn the way I teach, then I must teach the way he learns.

Our education department is headed by a certified, experienced reading specialist and staffed by certified teachers dedicated to helping children gain skills and improve academic self-esteem.

Laughlin Center has many on-going educational services to help children at all grade and skill levels in reading, written language, math, and study skills.

If your child has a learning difference, just needs to catch up, or needs enrichment to provide that extra boost, we have services to meet your needs.

Children come one or more times a week during the school year, as well as for intensive, daily services in the summer. We also offer enrichment programs for children of all ages to enhance learning and development.

Assessment:

Licensed and certified school psychologists and education specialists assess your child to provide a complete picture of his strengths and weaknesses. Psychological testing provides information about your child's level of intellectual functioning, learning style, and cognitive functions that affect learning such as memory, perception, and behavior. Educational testing (performed by a master's level clinician) will pinpoint your child's current performance level and areas in which skills need to be built. The results of testing include specific recommendations — answers to your questions about what help your child needs. If your child has been recently assessed elsewhere, we will conduct an Instructional Placement Review to determine placement in any of our programs

Click here for our 2005 summer newsletter's lead story - Educational Assessments.

Individualized Instruction:

The relationship that builds between student and teacher creates a safe atmosphere for your child.

The same certified teacher works one-on-one with your child in reading, written language, math or study skills. The teacher follows an individualized plan that specifies the starting point, goals and methods to help your child. Continual observation and periodic assessment charts your child's progress. Children may register for one or more visits a week. Call for dates and costs: 412-741-4087.

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Orton-Gillingham:

"Only when children are able to decode (read) words automatically, can they concentrate on the meaning of the text."

The Orton-Gillingham approach to reading offers a systematic, multisensory method to the development of these skills. Laughlin Center tutors are equipped with the necessary techniques to offer this structured learning approach for students of all ages.

K-1 Skill Builders:

The program is for kindergarten and first grade children who may be at risk, due to delays in one or more areas of normal development that affect readiness to learn. It is designed to nurture the growth of age appropriate skills necessary for success in school.

Each child is tested in six skill areas: visual, auditory, language, gross and fine motor, social/emotional, and academic. Individual goals are developed for each child. Groups of up to 6 children participate in enjoyable activities that build skills in all areas. Each child receives individualized attention and is helped to build a positive self-concept. A child's progress is tracked, and regular conferences are held with parents. Groups meet weekly during the school year, or in July, on a daily basis. Call for dates and costs: 412-741-4087.

Study Skills:

The Study Skills program is designed around the idea that good organizational and study skills allow students to study more efficiently and have better results. Working individually or in small groups, students learn to organize material, make an outline, take notes, study for exams, and master memory techniques. This course parallels the school year and offers the student the opportunity for immediate application of the skills taught each week.

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