Finding the Right Tutor for your Dyslexic Student

If you’re considering hiring a tutor for your child with dyslexia, the most important qualities to look for are:

Empathy and Understanding of Dyslexia

  • A tutor should have experience working with dyslexic students and a deep understanding of the challenges they face.

  • They should recognize that reading can be frustrating and anxiety-inducing and provide a safe, supportive environment.

  • Building a strong relationship with the student is essential to foster trust and motivation.

Structured Literacy and Evidence-Based Instruction

  • Look for a tutor trained in Structured Literacy, which is an explicit, systematic, and multisensory approach to teaching reading.

  • Ask a potential tutor about the program or programs they utilize (Structured Literacy may be implemented using one or more programs).

DOWNLOAD THE PDF GUIDE HERE

The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) accredits educator training programs that meet high standards in teaching reading.  We encourage you to review IDA’s educator preparation programs and Independent Teacher Training Programs Accredited by IDA based on an accreditation model that is uniquely aligned with  IDA’s Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading (KPS).

Individualized and Data-Driven Approach

A tutor should assess your child’s needs using evidence-based assessments, school reports, and informal assessments.

They should track progress and adjust instruction based on data and student feedback.

Collaboration with Parents and Schools

A good tutor partners with families and schools to help implement strategies that support the child beyond tutoring sessions.

Speech and Language Pathologists

Because dyslexia is a language-based learning disorder, speech-language pathologists can assess and treat a variety of skills to support dyslexic students. Some benefit plans provide coverage for these services. You can find a private practitioner through the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO).

Key Questions to Ask a Potential Tutor

Instruction & Experience

✅ How do you evaluate each student’s needs?
 ✅ What tutoring methods do you use?
 ✅ Do you collaborate with students’ classroom teachers?

Student Motivation & Outcomes

✅ What hours are you available? (Scheduling can be a deciding factor.)
 ✅ Where do you conduct tutoring sessions? (Library, online, home, private or group sessions)
✅ What are the expectations of parents outside of the tutoring sessions?
 ✅ How much do you charge for your services?

Logistics & Expectations

 ✅ How do you motivate students, especially those who struggle with confidence?
 ✅ What results have you seen with past students?
 ✅ How long do you expect tutoring to last?

References & Credibility

✅ Can I speak to a parent or educator who has worked with you?

Professional Directory

IMPORTANT NOTICE

IDA Ontario’s Professional Directory provides a listing of structured literacy professionals; IDA Ontario does not endorse or guarantee the services of any professional listed.

Users should independently verify the qualifications and suitability of any professional before engaging services. This directory is intended as a reference tool, and users assume full responsibility for their choices.

We strongly recommend consulting with other reliable sources, seeking references, and conducting interviews as part of your selection process to ensure that you find the best professional to meet your specific needs.

Individual Professionals
Centres/Clinics
Schools

Are you a professional who works with students with dyslexia?

Please apply to our Professional Directory.

Before applying, all professionals must be members of the International Dyslexia Association. 

Become an IDA Member
Submit an Application for Listing

 

For inquiries or to update your listing, please contact  professionaldirectory@idaontario.com

Copyright © 2024 The International Dyslexia Association Ontario. Charitable Registration Number: 85713 3078 RR0001