How long does it take to get results?

The time it takes to see results from specialised learning support can vary depending on several factors, including the student’s starting level, the subject matter, the frequency of sessions, and the child’s unique learning needs. However, here’s a general guideline:

• Short-term improvement (2–4 weeks): Students often begin to feel more confident and better understand key concepts within the first few sessions.

• Mid-term progress (1–3 months): Measurable academic gains typically appear with consistent effort and targeted support.

• Long-term results (3–6+ months): Sustained tutoring over an extended period can lead to significant academic improvement, closing learning gaps and enhancing overall performance and independence.

Every student is different, so progress depends on individual goals and needs. Sunshine Coast Learning Support regularly assesses progress, provides feedback, and adjusts the approach as needed to ensure ongoing improvement.

Can Sunshine Coast Learning Support help with learning disabilities or special education needs?

Many of my students do not have a formal diagnosis, but they simply need more support in English or Mathematics. I have lots of experience working with neurodiverse students, and my services can be highly beneficial for students with learning disabilities or special education needs. Some of the children I have worked with have diverse learning profiles, including ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and processing disorders. To provide the most effective support, I welcome any relevant psychological or educational testing reports you can share. These help me better understand how your child learns best and allow me to tailor instruction to meet their unique needs.

What can I do at home to support my child?

Reading Support at Home

1. Read together daily:
   Set aside 15–20 minutes a day to read aloud together. Choose high-interest, age-appropriate books—even below grade level—to build confidence and enjoyment.

2. Use audiobooks:
   Listening to audiobooks while following along with the text can build vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension without the pressure of decoding.

3. Break reading into small chunks:
   Short, manageable reading sessions with frequent breaks help prevent frustration and fatigue.

4. Practice phonics and sight words:
   Use flashcards, word games, and apps like Nessy or Reading Rockets to reinforce phonics patterns and high-frequency words.

5. Talk about what you read:
   Ask questions before, during, and after reading to boost comprehension (e.g., "What do you think will happen next?" or "Why did the character do that?").

6. Use multi-sensory strategies:
   To engage multiple senses, incorporate tools like magnetic letters, sandpaper letters, or apps with visual and audio support.

Math Support at Home

1. Use real-life math situations:
   Practice math in everyday contexts, such as cooking (measuring), shopping (making change), or telling time.

2. Break problems into steps:
   Teach how to tackle math problems step by step. Use colour-coded notes or diagrams to organise the process visually.

3. Incorporate hands-on tools:
   Use manipulatives like counters, base-ten blocks, number lines, or fraction tiles to build understanding of abstract concepts. See my FREE RESOURCES for more ideas.

4. Practice math facts with games:
   Play math-based games (e.g., Sum Swamp, Sleeping Queens, Rat-a-tat Cat, card games, or apps like MathTango) to build fluency in a fun way.

5. Repeat and review often:
   Frequent repetition helps reinforce skills. Mix new problems with familiar ones to build mastery without overwhelming the student.

6. Celebrate small wins:
   Focus on effort and progress, not just accuracy. Encouragement builds confidence and motivation.

Talk with me about the Tomatis Method, an auditory stimulation therapy designed to improve listening, communication, learning, and emotional well-being.