Helping Every Child Become a Confident Reader

Connecticut Certified Reading Specialist with 10+ years of classroom experience providing personalized, evidence-based literacy instruction that builds strong foundations and a lifelong love of reading.

10+ Years Experience
K-12 Grade Levels
Master's + 6th Year Certificate
Certified Reading Specialist

Services

Comprehensive literacy support tailored to each child's unique needs

Science of Reading

Evidence-based instruction grounded in the Science of Reading. Using systematic, explicit methods proven by decades of research to build strong readers from the ground up.

  • Phonological Awareness
  • Systematic Phonics
  • Fluency Development
  • Research-Based Methods

UFLI Foundations

Trained in the University of Florida Literacy Institute (UFLI) Foundations program - a systematic, explicit approach to phonics instruction that helps all students become skilled readers.

  • Systematic Phonics Instruction
  • Explicit Teaching Methods
  • Structured Literacy Approach
  • Evidence-Based Curriculum

Comprehension & Vocabulary

Build deep understanding and critical thinking skills. Explicit instruction in comprehension strategies and vocabulary development for academic success.

  • Reading Comprehension Strategies
  • Vocabulary Building
  • Critical Thinking Skills
  • Text Analysis

Writing Skills

Develop confident writers through explicit instruction in spelling, grammar, and composition. From sentence construction to paragraph writing and beyond.

  • Spelling Instruction
  • Grammar & Mechanics
  • Paragraph Development
  • Creative & Academic Writing

Parent Coaching

Empower parents with strategies and activities to support literacy development at home. Learn how to make reading practice engaging and effective.

  • Home Reading Strategies
  • Activity Recommendations
  • Progress Communication
  • Book Selection Guidance

Assessment & Consultation

Comprehensive literacy assessments to identify strengths and areas for growth. Detailed reports and actionable recommendations for parents and teachers.

  • Reading Level Assessment
  • Skills Gap Analysis
  • Detailed Reporting
  • School Collaboration

The Approach

Evidence-based methods that meet every child where they are

01

Assess

Begin with a thorough assessment to understand your child's current reading level, learning style, and specific areas that need support.

02

Plan

Create a personalized learning plan with clear goals and milestones, using research-based strategies tailored to your child's needs.

03

Teach

Deliver engaging, explicit instruction in a supportive environment where mistakes are learning opportunities and progress is celebrated.

04

Grow

Monitor progress continuously, adjusting instruction as needed and keeping parents informed every step of the way.

Every Child Can Learn to Read

Reading is the foundation for all learning. When children struggle with reading, it affects their confidence and success across every subject. But with the right instruction and support, every child can become a capable, confident reader.

I believe in meeting children where they are, building on their strengths, and using proven methods that work. My goal isn't just to help children read better - it's to help them discover the joy of reading.

About Nikki

Dedicated to helping every child succeed

With over a decade of classroom experience and specialized training in literacy intervention, I bring both expertise and heart to every tutoring session. I hold a Sixth Year Certificate in Reading from Southern Connecticut State University, a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from UConn, and Connecticut certifications in both Elementary Education (K-6) and Remedial Reading and Language Arts (1-12).

As a former Kindergarten teacher and Literacy Interventionist, I've worked with hundreds of students at all reading levels. I've seen firsthand how the right instruction at the right time can transform a struggling reader into a confident one. My approach is grounded in the Science of Reading - using systematic, explicit instruction in phonological awareness and phonics through programs like UFLI Foundations to ensure every child builds a strong foundation for reading success.

Whether your child needs help with foundational phonics skills, reading comprehension, or building fluency, I'm here to partner with you and your child on their literacy journey.

CT Reading & Language Arts Certificate (1-12)
Sixth Year Certificate in Reading
M.A. Curriculum & Instruction
UFLI Foundations Trained
"The best teachers are those who show you where to look but don't tell you what to see."
- Alexandra K. Trenfor

Let's Get Started

Ready to help your child become a confident reader? Schedule a free consultation to discuss your child's needs and how we can work together.

hello@nikkisliteracylab.com