We are born to learn.

We learn by observation and by trial and error. If our efforts result in repeated failures, we often give up. For example, students who struggle with reading see their peers reading masterfully. They may despair, or make their difficulties known in no uncertain terms, or try to slide beneath the radar, only to be discovered when their struggle can no longer be denied, because they are so far behind their classmates. By then, everybody knows.

What can your student do? What can they willingly and easily demonstrate in math, reading, and writing? I start there, offering ongoing affirmation and encouragement as I introduce individualized next steps that will help each unique student succeed. I have high expectations, and as I work with students for an extended period of time, I design the highest challenges within their reach. Then I teach them the next step, so they can reach even higher.  

– Erik Schickedanz