When a Child Is Born We Check That He Has 10 Fingers, Toes Ears Etc and That the Child

When a child is born we check that he has 10 fingers, toes ears etc and that the child is healthy. So it comes as a big shock when you are told that your child cannot read and even more so when he is in Grade 8, So how come we never picked it up and we used to sit with him every evening with reading and spelling. After hearing this shocking news we were referred to Marietjie Taljaard at the Tina Cowley reading Centre in ‘Brackenfell. I will be eternally grateful to the Brackenfell Reading Centre who referred us.

To make an appointment was speedily. On the day of testing Chad and his dad were made so welcome. Chad was put at ease straight away and results were explained. I might also add they were explained in such away that we could all understand where the problem was and how to correct it. Chad’ l was at grade 3 level. Chad has been going to the classes ever since that day, which were twice a week the first yea rand now once a week. He has been with them for more than two years.

Chad has caught up to grade 10 and he can now stop, but he sees the value in the classes and has opted to do the full series. We as parents have seen his confidence grow. He has picked up books and newspapers to read and even has a monthly car magazine that he anxiously waits for every month. Some days he comes home from the classes exhausted but has enjoyed them so much. He participates in class discussions and sometimes takes the lead. His marks have improved and he is even helping fellow students. He also suddenly becomes more focused on his subjects and it is no longer an argument to get him to homework. This to us as parents is the most fantastic news! He told me the other day that the grade 11 level is a challenge, which he thoroughly enjoying.

As the parent who takes him to the classes I often sit in the living room and I see all the love and gentle care that all the children receive, Brackenfell Tina Cowley Centre radiates with love for all who walk in at the front door. I have seen children who are battling being encouraged and put onto a pedestal as if they are the only child there. These children come out of their classes smiling and confident. With Chad’s hectic school and sporting schedule there are times that we cannot make the class and they are quick to help and reschedule. And to be honest even I have learnt many things by sitting there. Chad and Marietjie’s team are not afraid to share their knowledge and to answer any question even if it might be irrelevant. To them I say THANK YOU for helping us.

I just wish these “reading classes” could become part of the schools curriculum as the processes works 100% better than what is being taught in schools. I have and will continue to recommend that parents send their Children to Tina Cowley reading classes in Brackenfell even if they don’t battle at school, this will boost their confidence and help them in their school career.

I wish them continued success in teaching, helping our most precious gifts – our children.

Take Care and God Bless

Cynthia Richter (Chad’s Mom)

Suite 201

17 On Jamison Street

Cape Town 8001

Tel: 021-4247723

Fax: 0866 353 023