Sylvan Learning Center?

Question

Sylvan Learning Center?

I am having problems teaching my 6 yr old how to read. I was thinking about Sylvan Learning Center but I don't know of any body who has ever used it. Have you ever tried it out and is it worth the money?

2 minutes ago - 3 days left to answer.

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Answer 1

I don't have experience with Sylvan, but you might try buying some simple reading activity books (they have them are Target and such). Some tips on other things you might work on for a 6 year old are letter sounds ("S says sssss"), breaking words up into sounds ("car is 'k-a-r'"), and teaching them to recognize basic sight words (the, cat, I, run, etc). Also, find books interest him and read them with him. Use your finger to show what you are reading while you read and have him follow along. Every now and then ask him what sound a letter makes, demonstrate how you sound out words and ask him to say a word every time it appears (like, "the", "he", etc.).

I know this isn't what you're asking about, but I hope these tips help. Best of luck!

p.s. If your child is in a school that is not making AYP (adequate yearly progress, part of No Child Left Behind), the school may pay for additional tutoring for you son. Check with your teacher/principal.

Answer 2

Whatever Sylvan can do, you can do better.

Look up material for direct instruction at:

http://www.tulsaschools.org/depts/specia...

Also look up this great reading software called Quick Reads. You'll find it at:

http://www.quickreads.org/

Answer 3

I am a member of many parent online groups and boards for special ed and learning problem kids.

All of them who have used Sylvan say it is not for kids who have learing problems.

Have you asked the school for help? They are suppose to help her with this thru special ed.

Answer 4

Don't waste your money on Sylvan.  You can do a much better job at home using fun reading materials like computer games and hands on letter building materials.  I strongly suggest you go to a teacher's supply store and pick up a game or two.  Your son might go with you and pick out his favorite thing too.  Limit the number of worksheets to one or two per evening, especially if he has other homework.  

If he needs motivation to read books with you or complete worksheets.  Take him to the store and have him purchase a five dollar or so toy...when he reads fifty books he gets the toy.  

Chat with your son's teacher and see what suggestions she has, too.

Answer 5

Don't waste your time and money at Sylvan

Let me tell you what i discovered with them....when they test your child they ALWAYS come back with results that your child is testing at least 2 grade levels below where they are

If you think about it...they always guarantee that your child will come out at least 2 grade levels ahead.....how is that?  Well let me tell you how.....because your child was never 2 grade levels behind from the start

Their tuition is outrageous.  You pretty much have to take on a 2nd or 3rd job just to afford that place and its not worth it