The first step is an initial screening that measures Motor and Visual Processing Skills. (See Products and Services for further information on how a family can participate in the: Stepping Stones Home-Based Training Programs) For families in Colorado:
Step 1: Office Screening
Visual Processing/Dyslexia Screening
This unique testing instrument called a; 'Visagraph' measures the strength and accuracy of the Visual Processing System to accurately process visual information (words and numbers) back to the brain. A student is wearing 'pilot-looking' goggles that are attached to a computer. As he or she is reading a story on their reading level, the computer is recording many aspects of that student's visual processing skills. A read-out is generated immediately, and a printout shows very accurately at what grade level of visual processing performance the student is at. This unique test accurately pinpoints where the breakdown is occurring and provides a readout with measurements showing GRADE LEVEL of visual processing performance. Many students struggling with reading and spelling are experiencing and inability to process visual information even though they have 20/20 eyesight. Test can be performed with ages 6-adult.
Step 2: Consultation
A developmental assessment of the four learning areas (coordination, perception, auditory, vision) is conducted to identify deficiencies. An individualized program is then designed to train and develop the deficient areas of learning.
Step 3: Training
The program consists of 12 to 16 weekly office sessions twice a week. Skills are reinforced through weekly home exercises. Periodic computer rechecks monitor developmental progress. Additional instruction in Phonics, Reading, and Writing is available. The Stepping Stones Home Training Program is utilized in conjunction with the weekly office visits. The program includes all necessary materials to complete the therapy and allows for the individual to refresh skills in the future as needed on his/her own.
A consultation is provided at this time to discuss training and academic options for correction.
Subsequently, developmental training is prescribed and completed at home over a 12-16 week period under the supervision of The Learning Connection.
The programs offered designed to enable students and parents to work together. Typically, definite changes and improvement are evident within 4-6 weeks.
Mr. Shapiro is not a licensed optometrist or opthalmologist. He does not diagnose or treat the presence of abnormal conditions of the eye and its appendages, or the accommodative and refractive conditions of the eye: or prescribe visual training and/ or the use of scientific instruments to train the visual system. He is not licensed in the state of Colorado to do so. You should consult with and follow the instructions of an optometrist or opthalmologist when using visual training procedures.
What Can Be Expected?
The results of the services and programs offered by The Learning Connection are measurable and impressive!
Clients successfully completing prescribed developmental training typically enjoy reading and comprehension.
Most noticeable is that clients are able to concentrate and pay attention on demand.
Children and adults alike enjoy faster, smoother reading and marked improvement in reading comprehension.
The combined effect of our diagnostic screening and developmental training typically results in increased memory, with improved spelling and math skills.
Students produce greater performance on the Stanford Achievement Test, Iowa Test and others.
The most valuable gift offered by The Learning Connection is the sense of self-esteem and improved self-image earned by our clients during the process of developmental therapy.