What a Difference Reading for Sure Can Make
At Reading for Sure, it’s not uncommon for a child to be brought to us once their parents realise their literacy journey isn’t unfolding as it should. Some students have already tried other interventions — at school or privately — but are still struggling and losing confidence in their ability to read.
Often, we see early signs that reading is going to be tough for them. This might look like poor letter recognition, difficulty applying letter sounds, or an inability to blend sounds into words.
Typically, we start with an individual assessment, followed by weekly one-hour sessions with a trained Reading for Sure tutor. But sometimes, especially during school holidays, students attend more intensively — several sessions across a single week. And the results can be astounding.
A Breakthrough in Just 6 Hours
During the January school holidays, we saw a perfect example of what this intensive support can do.
A young student showing dyslexic symptoms came to us with very low confidence. He struggled even with basic CVC words (like cat, dog, run). But over six one-hour sessions across six days, his reading ability transformed.
By the end of the week, he was confidently reading two-syllable words with short vowel ‘a’ sounds and complex blends — even though he was still consolidating his recognition of all letters and digraphs.
How? With the right tools, support, and strategies.
Building Skills and Confidence
After assessing his needs, we began by helping him strengthen his recognition of letters and digraphs. One of our key strategies is teaching students how to extract the first letter sound from picture names on our visual charts. This clever system allows students to independently recall sounds — giving them confidence and reducing their reliance on others.
Next, we worked through our Fat Cat Sam and Blending Buddy books. These are specially designed to teach the process of blending sounds into full words. With classroom practice and rereading at home, his learning quickly consolidated.
The results? A confident young reader who now sees that reading is something he can do — and something he can enjoy. His enthusiasm was infectious; he bounded in each day, excited to learn.
The School Year Looks Brighter
By the end of the six sessions, he was reading fluently at a level that once felt out of reach. Now, as the new school year begins, he doesn’t feel left behind — he feels ready.
And this isn’t a one-off. These kinds of transformations happen regularly with the Reading for Sure method. We never tire of seeing the joy on students’ faces — and the relief and gratitude from their families — when they realise reading can become a strength.
If your child or students are struggling, Reading for Sure can make all the difference.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or someone looking to become a Reading for Sure tutor — don’t wait. Contact us today and discover how we can help unlock a child’s reading potential.