Skill Sense
Evidence-Based Services
Unique Reading Solutions
At Skill Sense Literacy and Math LLC, reading instruction is grounded in the Science of Reading — a robust body of interdisciplinary research from cognitive science, linguistics, neuroscience, and education that explains how children learn to read and why some struggle. Decades of research demonstrate that skilled reading requires explicit instruction in foundational skills such as phonemic awareness, systematic phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension (National Reading Panel, 2000; Seidenberg, 2017).
I use a structured, multisensory Orton-Gillingham–aligned approach, which is designed to support learners with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Instruction is explicit, sequential, cumulative, and engages visual, auditory, and kinesthetic pathways simultaneously — practices shown to strengthen decoding, spelling, and word recognition skills (Birsh & Carreker, 2018; Ehri, 2014).
My teaching is diagnostic and prescriptive, meaning lessons are continually adjusted based on each student’s performance and progress. Ongoing assessment informs instruction in real time, allowing me to target specific skill gaps and respond to how each learner processes language. This individualized, data-informed approach is widely recognized as a critical component of effective reading intervention for struggling readers (Moats, 2020).
Through this evidence-based, supportive model, students build not only essential literacy skills, but also confidence, independence, and a stronger sense of themselves as capable learners.
Building Deep Conceptual Math Understanding
At Skill Sense Literacy and Math LLC, math instruction is grounded in research-based, multisensory practices that support students with learning differences and math difficulties. I use the Concrete–Representational–Abstract (CRA) instructional approach, a well-established framework shown to improve conceptual understanding and problem-solving by intentionally moving students from hands-on experiences to visual representations and, finally, to abstract symbols (Witzel, Mercer, & Miller, 2003).
Instruction incorporates multisensory math strategies, including those outlined by Marilyn Zecher, which align closely with Orton-Gillingham principles. Lessons engage visual, auditory, and kinesthetic pathways to strengthen number sense, mathematical reasoning, and procedural fluency. By using manipulatives, visual models, structured language, and movement, students are supported in making meaningful connections between concepts rather than relying on rote memorization (Zecher, 2016).
Math instruction is diagnostic and individualized, meaning I continuously assess each learner’s understanding and adjust instruction accordingly. This responsive approach allows me to target specific skill gaps, reinforce foundational concepts, and build confidence in students who may have experienced frustration or anxiety around math. Research consistently shows that explicit, systematic, multisensory math instruction is especially effective for students with learning differences, including dyscalculia and ADHD (Gersten et al., 2009).
Through this structured and supportive approach, students develop deeper mathematical understanding, stronger problem-solving skills, and increased confidence as capable math learners.
Homeschool & Virtual Learning Available!
Skill Sense Literacy and Math LLC offers flexible homeschool and virtual instruction options designed to meet families where they are. For homeschooling families, I provide individualized, research-based instruction in reading and math that complements home education programs while ensuring foundational skills are taught explicitly, systematically, and with fidelity to best practices.
Virtual sessions are intentionally designed to be highly interactive and multisensory, not passive screen time. Using structured routines, visual supports, hands-on materials, and ongoing assessment, students receive the same diagnostic, targeted instruction they would experience in person. Lessons are individualized, engaging, and responsive to each learner’s strengths and needs.
Both homeschool and virtual services are well-suited for students with learning differences who benefit from personalized pacing, consistent structure, and specialized instruction. Families receive ongoing communication, progress updates, and instructional guidance to support learning beyond each session.
These flexible service options allow students to access high-quality, evidence-based literacy and math intervention in a format that supports their learning style, schedule, and family needs.
All services are offered in a warm, welcoming classroom space located in Middletown, NJ or online.