Our Services
.
Approach
OUR TUTORING APPROACH
Building Foundations Tutoring offers a comprehensive, evidence-based education and mental wellness program specifically designed for children who have experienced trauma. Our unique approach follows a structured methodology that addresses both the academic and emotional needs of our students.
Trauma Recognition & Knowledge
Trust Building
Comprehensive Assessment
Targeted Instruction
Integration with School-Based Support
Trauma Recognition & Knowledge
Our process begins with understanding how trauma affects the brain’s ability to learn. We recognize that many of the behaviours traditionally viewed as problematic in educational settings—difficulty focusing, emotional outbursts, withdrawal—are often manifestations of a brain responding to trauma. Our tutors are trained to recognize these signs and respond with empathy rather than judgment.
We understand that traumatized brains often struggle with executive functions like focus, organization, and self-regulation. Rather than expecting children to overcome these challenges through willpower alone, we create an environment that accommodates these difficulties while gradually building the skills needed to overcome them.
Trust Building
Before meaningful learning can occur, children must feel safe and supported. Our tutors prioritize building genuine, trusting relationships with each student, creating a consistent, predictable environment where children can begin to let their guard down and engage with learning.
This relationship-building phase is not separate from the educational process—it’s the essential foundation upon which all learning will be built. Our tutors approach each child with compassionate curiosity, listening intently to understand their unique experiences, challenges, and strengths.
Comprehensive Assessment
Once a trusting relationship has been established, we conduct a thorough educational assessment using the Woodcock-Johnston-IV Tests of Achievement. This standardized assessment tool helps us identify specific learning gaps and strengths, allowing us to create a truly individualized learning plan.
Unlike generalized tutoring approaches that may focus on current classroom assignments, our assessment-based approach identifies and targets the foundational skills that may have been missed during periods of educational disruption. By addressing these core gaps, we create a solid foundation for all future learning.
Targeted Instruction
Based on the assessment results, we design an individualized tutoring plan that addresses each child’s specific learning needs. Our tutors provide direct, scaffolded instruction in 40-hour packages, typically delivered in 1-3 hour sessions per week.
This targeted approach ensures that instruction is neither too challenging (which can trigger frustration and disengagement) nor too simple (which fails to advance skills). Instead, we create a “just right” level of challenge that promotes growth while maintaining engagement and confidence.
Integration with School-Based Support
We believe in the importance of creating a cohesive support system for each child. Our tutors work to integrate their targeted instruction with the child’s school-based learning, helping to bridge the gap between individualized support and classroom expectations.
We also help families better understand components of the education system, such as Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and report cards, empowering them to more effectively advocate for their child’s educational needs.
Who
WHO WE SERVE
- Children in the care of Children’s Aid Societies
- Children in supported families and group homes
- Children with fragmented school histories due to multiple moves or prolonged absences
- Children who have experienced trauma and are struggling in traditional educational settings
- Any child who is falling behind academically and not responding to conventional tutoring approaches
While our program was initially developed to serve children within the CAS system, we are now expanding our services to other populations who may benefit from our trauma-informed approach. If you believe your child might benefit from our services but aren’t sure if they qualify, please contact us for a consultation.
OUR
SERVICES
Initial Assessment Package
- Comprehensive intake using the Woodcock-Johnston-IV Tests of Achievement
- Detailed assessment report identifying specific learning gaps and strengths
- Individualized tutoring plan development
- Consultation with parents/caregivers to discuss findings and recommendations
Core Tutoring Package
- 40 hours of direct instruction tutoring
- Flexible scheduling (typically 1-3 hours per week)
- Choice of tutoring location (public libraries, schools, or clients’ homes)
- Regular progress updates for parents/caregivers
- Growth assessment upon completion of the 40-hour block
Ongoing Support
- Reassessment after each 40-hour block to measure progress and adjust goals
- Option to continue with additional tutoring blocks as needed
- Coordination with school personnel (with parent/guardian permission)
- Guidance for families on supporting learning at home
TESTIMONIALS
What People Are Saying
My daughter had a hard time focusing for more than 5 minutes before the tutor started seeing her. She couldn’t form sentences or write letters and numbers. The tutoring program has helped my daughter identify letters and numbers to use in her daily learning at school… I don’t know where she would be without this special help…[The program] has exceeded our expectations and we couldn’t be happier with the results.
This program has given the kids a chance to build a better base for learning. Since they are in a private setting, they are not embarrassed. They get more practice reading and I am able to reinforce work they have struggled with in school. The program is long enough it allows the kids to become comfortable with me and they are able to tell me where they struggle.