Once you've decided to move forward with an assessment, the practical questions start piling up. How long will this actually take? Does my child need to prepare anything? What's it going to feel like for them? These logistics matter, especially if you're trying to fit this into an already busy schedule or want to help your child feel ready rather than anxious.
How Long the Assessment Typically Takes
Most Orton-Gillingham Assessments take between 45 minutes and an hour, though this can vary depending on your child's age and how many specific areas are being evaluated. Younger children or those who need more breaks may take a bit longer overall, even if the actual testing time is similar.
What Happens During the Assessment
The assessment is conducted one-on-one with a trained specialist and typically includes a series of tasks looking at phonological awareness, letter-sound knowledge, decoding of both real and unfamiliar words, spelling, and reading fluency. It's presented conversationally rather than as a stressful, timed exam, and most children find the format approachable once they understand what to expect.
Signs Your Child Might Feel Anxious Beforehand, and Why That's Normal
- Asking repeatedly what will happen or whether they'll "pass"
- Seeming unusually quiet or worried in the days leading up to the appointment
- Comparing it to a school test they've had a hard time with before
This is a common and understandable reaction, especially for a child who's already struggled with reading and associates testing with past frustration.
How Parents Can Help Their Child Prepare
Explain the assessment simply and honestly — something like, "this is a chance for someone to get to know exactly how you read, so we can find the best way to help." Avoid framing it as a test to pass or fail, since that framing tends to increase anxiety without any benefit. There's no specific studying or preparation needed beforehand.
Common Problems and Possible Solutions
A common concern is scheduling the assessment right before a nap time or after a long school day, when a child is already tired. Choosing a time when your child is typically alert and calm can make a real difference in how smoothly the session goes, without affecting the actual results.
What Parents Can Do on Assessment Day
- Keep the morning or the hours before low-stress, avoiding rushing or extra pressure
- Frame it as a normal, low-key appointment rather than building it up as a big event
- If the assessment is online, test your internet connection and device setup beforehand to avoid technical interruptions
- Have a quiet, comfortable space ready, free from major distractions
What Kind of Professional Support May Help?
Once complete, the results from an Orton-Gillingham Assessment should lead directly to a clear, specific recommendation — whether that's the Orton-Gillingham Approach itself, a related program, or further evaluation if the results suggest something else may be involved.
How Long Until You Get Results?
This varies by provider, but many specialists can walk you through initial findings shortly after the session itself, with a more detailed written summary following within a few days.
How The Learnability Can Help
At The Learnability, our assessments are conducted online, one-on-one, in a warm, low-pressure format designed to put your child at ease. We walk you through the results clearly, in plain language, with a specific recommendation for what comes next. Reach out to us to schedule an assessment or ask any questions beforehand.
About The Learnability and Founder Laila Madhani
The Learnability was founded by Laila Madhani, who leads our approach to individualized, evidence-informed learning support for children and families. You can learn more about our story and approach on our About Us page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my child need to bring anything to the assessment?
Typically no specific materials are needed, though if your child has glasses or other accommodations they normally use for reading, having those on hand is helpful.
Can the assessment be done in one session, or does it take multiple appointments?
Most Orton-Gillingham Assessments are completed in a single session, though this can vary based on your child's specific needs.
What if my child gets tired or needs a break partway through?
A good specialist will build in breaks as needed and adjust pacing to your child, rather than pushing through regardless.
Is the assessment the same for every age group?
The core areas assessed are similar, but the specific tasks and materials are adapted to be age-appropriate.
Can this be done online?
Yes, The Learnability conducts this assessment fully online, one-on-one with a trained specialist.
Conclusion and Next Step
Knowing what to expect can make assessment day feel a lot less intimidating for both you and your child. Contact The Learnability to schedule an assessment or ask any questions first.
Connect With The Learnability: Facebook | LinkedIn | Leave us a Google review