Classroom instruction typically follows a whole-class pace and curriculum, while Orton Gillingham tutoring is personalized 1-on-1 instruction tailored to each student's specific needs and learning speed. Tutors using this method can focus intensively on the exact phonetic patterns and skills your student needs to master, with immediate feedback and adjustments. This personalized approach is especially valuable for students who haven't responded to standard classroom reading programs.

Orton Gillingham can be used with students from early elementary through high school, and even adults, depending on their reading level and needs. The method works by meeting students where they are—whether they're in 2nd grade struggling with basic phonics or a middle schooler with undiagnosed reading challenges. A tutor can assess your student's current skills and determine the right starting point within the Orton Gillingham sequence.

Most students begin noticing improved decoding and confidence within 4-6 weeks of consistent, personalized instruction. However, the timeline depends on the severity of the reading difficulty and how frequently your student receives tutoring. With regular sessions (typically 2-3 times per week), many students show measurable gains in phonetic awareness, fluency, and comprehension within 2-3 months.

The first session typically includes an assessment of your student's current reading level, decoding skills, and any specific challenges they're facing. The tutor will ask about their reading history, any previous interventions, and your goals for improvement. From there, they'll introduce foundational Orton Gillingham concepts and create a personalized plan that builds from your student's current abilities.

Look for tutors who have formal training in the Orton Gillingham method and ideally hold certification from an accredited organization like the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators (AOGPE). They should also have experience working with students who have reading difficulties or dyslexia. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in Honolulu who have the specialized training needed to deliver effective Orton Gillingham instruction.

While Orton Gillingham was originally developed to help students with dyslexia, it's highly effective for any student who struggles with reading, including those with general reading delays, decoding difficulties, or weak phonetic foundations. The structured, multisensory approach benefits many learners who need explicit, step-by-step instruction in how sounds and letters work together. If your student isn't progressing with standard reading instruction, Orton Gillingham is worth exploring regardless of whether dyslexia has been identified.

Tutors typically use specialized Orton Gillingham materials like letter cards, word lists, and structured lesson plans that are part of their training and practice. Some tutors may ask families to provide basic supplies like notebooks or index cards for practice at home. When you connect with a tutor in Honolulu, they'll explain what materials they use and whether there are any costs beyond tutoring fees.