Life is a series of choices. Choice of what we will do. What we won't do. When parents seek educational help outside of school for their children, they have to make a tough decision - what will we give up or where will we squeeze?

The clinical tutorial approach to changing learning disabilities and attention deficits is a demanding one. It generally requires a minimum of two sessions per week and because it is so individualized and specialized, often has a slightly higher price tag than other kinds of tutoring. The question is, "Is it worth the cost?" Is it worth giving up finances, playtime, work time, sports, or other extracurricular activities?

The goal of the clinical tutorial approach is that the student (child or adult) will be working comfortably and independently at their grade level or potential; that they will be in control of their attention and learning. This is accomplished through actively involving the student in developing both the underlying thinking/learning processes that are causing the inefficiencies, as well as the needed academic skills. At the Stowell Learning Center, some of the results of such a program have been:

• A 50-year-old man who can smile and look people in the eye again; who has learned to read for the first time in his life
  
  
• A second grader who isn't "lost in class" anymore
  
  
• A ninth grader who has transitioned out of special education and is maintaining a place on the honor roll without help

Learning disabilities, Dyslexia, and attention focus problems are not diseases. They are differences in thinking or processing information that can be helped. Our work at the Stowell Learning Center is based on enabling individuals to process information appropriately so they will be ready to learn. The student is taught how to learn and is introduced to strategies for learning to read, etc. These students can overcome their disadvantages, learn to read, and live productive lives.

Is it worth the price?