Reading challenges can emerge for many reasons—difficulty with phonics, slow reading fluency, trouble understanding what they read, or gaps from earlier grades. With Denver's 14.4:1 student-teacher ratio across 9 school districts, some students benefit from the personalized attention that one-on-one tutoring provides. A tutor trained in reading intervention can identify exactly where a student is struggling and create a targeted plan to close those gaps.

The first session typically involves an assessment to understand your student's current reading level, specific challenges, and learning style. The tutor will ask about their reading history, what strategies they've already tried, and what their goals are. From there, they'll work with you to develop a personalized plan that targets the areas most important for your student's progress.

Progress varies depending on the severity of the reading gap and how frequently your student receives tutoring, but many students show noticeable improvement within 4-8 weeks of consistent, targeted instruction. Reading skills build cumulatively, so regular practice and reinforcement between sessions are key. A tutor can help track progress and adjust strategies as needed to keep momentum going.

Look for tutors with specific training in reading intervention frameworks, such as Orton-Gillingham, Wilson Reading System, or similar evidence-based approaches. Many hold certifications in literacy coaching or reading specialist credentials. When you connect with Varsity Tutors, you'll be matched with experienced tutors who understand the science of reading and how to diagnose and address reading difficulties effectively.

Reading comprehension depends on strong foundational skills like decoding and fluency—if a student is struggling to sound out words or read smoothly, comprehension suffers. A certified reading intervention tutor works on these fundamentals first, then layers in comprehension strategies like questioning, summarizing, and making connections. This multi-layered approach helps students understand not just what they read, but why it matters.

Reading intervention can begin as early as kindergarten or first grade if early warning signs appear, but it's never too late to help. The earlier gaps are addressed, the easier they are to close—waiting until middle or high school means working with more ingrained habits. If you notice your Denver student struggling with letter sounds, sight words, or reading fluency at any grade level, personalized tutoring can help them catch up and build confidence.

Consistent practice outside of tutoring sessions is crucial for building reading skills. A tutor will typically assign targeted activities and reading assignments tailored to your student's level and goals. These might include phonics drills, guided reading practice, or fluency exercises. Your tutor will guide you on how to support practice at home without frustration, making it a positive part of your student's routine.