Danielle Barash and Shawn Krumholz have over 20 years of combined experience as speech-language pathologists. They are children at heart who believe connection is the foundation of learning.
In their individual work with clients over the years, they have had a front row seat to the struggles that many young readers face when they are expected to develop their literacy skills without appropriate, explicit instruction that aligns with the science of reading.
After attending and enjoying many enrichment classes in the LA area that focused on areas like music, art, movement, etc., they recognized a need for classes emphasizing early language and literacy skills. With their expertise in language and speech sound development, as well as a deep understanding of underlying skills necessary for reading development - phonological awareness, decoding, comprehension, vocabulary development, etc. - they are well equipped to teach young learners essential emerging reading skills.
Literacy unlocks the door to learning throughout life and serves as a foundation for personal, social, and economic well-being.
The United States is facing a literacy crisis. 67% of fourth graders read below grade level. Only 47% of kindergarten students were reading at grade level in the 2021-2022 school year. Once a child falls behind in reading, it becomes increasingly difficult for them to catch up; studies show that this gap can happen as early as first grade. A shrinking number of kids are reading widely and avidly for fun, let alone to further their learning. Factors such as the rise of digital screens, learning loss from the pandemic, mandated and outdated curricula, lack of evidence-based training in reading instruction, teacher shortages, and access to literature play a role in this crisis. However, this crisis is totally preventable!
There is overwhelming evidence that nearly all children can learn to read. Yet, the statistics show that schools are failing our children. Decades of research shows that when students receive explicit and systematic instruction in all of the essential components of reading (i.e., phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension), they will learn to read.
Literacy enrichment offers the space and time for children to dive deep into these components of reading with highly trained professionals in a manner and environment that allows for passion and excitement, while also providing a safe space to ask questions.
