The Barton Reading Method: Why It Works When Other Programs Fail

When it comes to teaching struggling readers, especially those with dyslexia, not all reading programs are created equal. As an award-winning Barton tutor who has helped countless students overcome reading challenges, I've seen firsthand how the Barton Reading and Spelling System succeeds where other popular programs fall short. This systematic, Orton-Gillingham based approach has transformed the academic trajectory of my students, many of whom had previously tried multiple reading programs without success.

What Makes Barton Different?

A Truly Systematic Approach

The Barton Reading and Spelling System stands out because it's methodical and systematic to its core. Unlike many popular reading programs that introduce multiple skills simultaneously or in a less structured sequence, Barton builds skills one at a time, ensuring mastery before moving forward. This step-by-step progression is crucial for students with dyslexia, who need explicit instruction and abundant practice to cement their learning.

Each lesson in the Barton system is designed to build upon previously mastered skills, creating a solid foundation for literacy. My students find comfort in knowing exactly what to expect, which reduces anxiety and builds confidence with each successfully completed lesson.

Teaching Reading and Spelling Together

One critical aspect of Barton that sets it apart from many other programs is its equal emphasis on reading (decoding) and spelling (encoding). Many programs focus primarily on reading, leaving spelling as an afterthought or a separate skill entirely.

Barton recognizes that these skills reinforce each other. When students learn to spell a word pattern, they strengthen their ability to read that same pattern, and vice versa. This dual approach is particularly effective for students with persistent spelling difficulties, who finally gain the tools to check their own work and identify errors independently.

Backed by the Science of Reading

The Barton Method isn't based on educational trends or shortcuts—it's firmly grounded in the science of reading. As an Orton-Gillingham approach, it incorporates multisensory techniques that engage visual, auditory, and kinesthetic pathways simultaneously, which is proven to help struggling readers create stronger neural connections.

While many popular programs incorporate some elements of reading science, Barton applies these principles comprehensively and systematically, making it more effective for students who haven't responded to other approaches. Research published in the Journal of Learning Disabilities consistently supports structured literacy approaches like Barton for students with dyslexia and other reading difficulties.

Real Results with the Barton Method

Rapid Progress for Elementary Students

In my practice, I've consistently seen 1st-4th grade students reach grade-level reading within just three months of starting Barton tutoring. This remarkable progress often comes after months or years of frustration with other reading programs and interventions.

The systematic nature of Barton allows students to build confidence quickly as they master each skill, creating momentum that accelerates their progress. Parents frequently express surprise at how quickly their children begin applying their new skills to books they previously couldn't access.

Breaking Through for Older Students

Perhaps even more striking are the breakthroughs I've witnessed with older students. One high school student came to me believing she would never learn to spell correctly—a common sentiment among teenagers who have struggled with dyslexia throughout their education.

Through Barton's systematic approach to understanding language patterns, this student finally gained the tools to spell accurately. The program's emphasis on learning why English words are spelled the way they are—rather than just memorizing word lists—provided the structure she needed to overcome years of spelling difficulties.

The Benefits of Online Barton Tutoring

The Barton Method's effectiveness is further enhanced when delivered through structured online tutoring sessions. While the program itself is exceptional, my specialized approach to online implementation offers several advantages:

Maximizing Instructional Time

Online Barton sessions eliminate the need to physically set up and take down manipulatives, adding approximately 10 minutes of actual learning time to each lesson. This efficiency means students progress through the program more quickly, seeing results sooner.

Reinforcement Through Digital Games

To complement the standard Barton Reading and Spelling System, I've created customized online games that reinforce each lesson. These engaging activities make practice feel like play while systematically reviewing newly learned concepts until they "stick." I also develop personalized games tailored to individual students' needs, addressing their specific challenges in a fun, low-pressure format.

Consistent Attendance and Fewer Disruptions

The flexibility of online learning means fewer missed lessons due to minor illness, travel, or scheduling conflicts. Both students and I can connect from anywhere with internet access, ensuring consistent progress without the interruptions that often slow traditional tutoring arrangements.

Why Barton Works When Others Don't

Many families come to me after trying multiple well-known reading programs without success. These programs may work for some students but often fall short for those with dyslexia or significant reading challenges.

The key difference is that Barton was specifically designed for students with dyslexia and follows the complete Orton-Gillingham approach. While other programs may incorporate elements of structured literacy, they typically lack the systematic, cumulative, and explicit instruction that struggling readers require. According to the International Dyslexia Association, these structured literacy components are essential for effective dyslexia intervention.

Another crucial advantage of Barton is that it was created to be accessible for parent implementation, unlike many Orton-Gillingham programs that require extensive training. This means it combines the scientific rigor of professional dyslexia interventions with clear instructional guidelines that make it usable in both home and tutoring settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to see results with the Barton Method?

Most of my elementary-aged students show significant improvement within 3 months, often reading at grade level within this timeframe. Older students may take longer depending on the severity of their reading difficulties and how long they've struggled. Although results vary, most students can complete Barton through the end of Level 8 (to perform at a 9th grade level) in 2-2.5 years with twice weekly lessons. Completing the entire program through Level 10 takes 2-3 years with twice weekly lessons.

Is Barton only for students with dyslexia?

While Barton was specifically designed for dyslexic students, it works exceptionally well for any student with reading or spelling difficulties. The systematic approach benefits all struggling readers.

How do online sessions compare to in-person Barton tutoring?

Online sessions are often more efficient, allowing us to accomplish more in each lesson. The digital format eliminates setup time and enables the use of engaging online games to reinforce learning.

Can parents implement Barton at home?

Yes, Barton was designed to be accessible for parent implementation. However, many families find that working with an experienced Barton tutor accelerates progress and reduces frustration.

Conclusion

For students who have struggled with other reading programs, the Barton Reading and Spelling System offers a fundamentally different approach that addresses the root causes of reading difficulties. Its systematic structure, combined with integrated reading and spelling instruction, provides the framework these learners need to finally break through their challenges.

As a tutor who specializes in helping students who haven't succeeded with other methods, I've seen the Barton difference firsthand. The joy of watching a student who believed they "couldn't learn to read" suddenly decode words independently, or a teenager who thought spelling was impossible master complex patterns, confirms what research has shown: the right approach makes all the difference.

If your child has struggled with other reading programs, I invite you to discover how the Barton Method, implemented with personalized attention and supplemented with engaging digital reinforcement, can transform their relationship with reading and spelling.

Want to learn more about how Barton tutoring could help your child? Contact me for a free consultation to discuss your child's specific needs and how the Barton Method might be the solution you've been seeking.