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Comparing Orton-Gillingham and Kumon: Key Differences Explained
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
Orton-Gillingham is a specialized, multisensory reading intervention method used mainly for dyslexia, focusing on phonemic awareness and decoding skills. Kumon is a supplemental math and reading program that uses repetitive practice and incremental worksheets to build skills and speed. Orton-Gillingham targets learning disabilities; Kumon targets skill building and enrichment.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 11. Identify if your child struggles primarily with reading (consider Orton-Gillingham) or needs enrichment in math/reading skills (consider Kumon).
- 22. Research local Orton-Gillingham certified tutors or Kumon centers to understand availability and fit.
- 33. Observe your child's response to multisensory activities versus worksheet-based practice to gauge engagement.
What to say
- “Let's try some fun activities that help us hear and feel the sounds in words together." (Orton-Gillingham style)”
- “Today, we'll do a few quick worksheets to practice what you already know and get a little better each day." (Kumon style)”
- “If something feels too hard or too easy, we can tell your tutor so they can help you just right.”
What to practice consistently
- Building a daily routine for practice that balances challenge and success.
- Encouraging multisensory learning at home, like tracing letters while saying sounds aloud.
- Tracking progress and celebrating small achievements to build confidence.
What to avoid
- Avoid expecting rapid progress without consistent practice.
- Avoid forcing children into a program that causes frustration or anxiety.
- Avoid neglecting individualized needs by using a one-size-fits-all approach.
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Orton-Gillingham: multisensory teaching involving visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning to teach phonics and language structure
- Orton-Gillingham: individualized, often one-on-one or small group sessions tailored to the learner’s specific needs
- Orton-Gillingham: explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, decoding, spelling, and reading fluency
- Kumon: daily worksheet-based practice in math and reading, progressing in small, incremental steps
- Kumon: self-learning approach encouraging independence and speed through repetition
- Kumon: group or individual enrollment with regular progress checks and advancement through levels
Related questions
Orton-Gillingham is a multisensory, structured literacy approach designed to help individuals with dyslexia improve reading and spelling skills.
Kumon is a supplemental education program using daily worksheet practice to build math and reading skills incrementally and independently.
Orton-Gillingham is generally preferred for children with dyslexia due to its specialized, multisensory approach targeting reading difficulties.
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From around the web
Understanding Dyslexia and Reading Difficulties
Explains the Orton-Gillingham approach and its use for dyslexia.
Understood.org
How to Help Your Child Build Math Skills
Offers strategies for supporting children's math learning, relevant to Kumon's focus.
U.S. Department of Education
Supporting Children with Learning Differences
Guidance on tailored learning approaches for children with learning challenges.
Child Mind Institute