Age: 8
Grade: 3rd - Below Grade Level
Emotional State: Withdrawn

Justin was a quiet, withdrawn boy who came to us in February of 2007. He just seemed limp. He was below grade level in reading as well as in spelling and we could see it weighed heavy on his soul. Justin was very athletic and loved to play soccer. He wanted to play soccer, watch soccer on TV and read about his hero David Beckham. When asked which was his favorite book he said " I don't have a favorite book, I can't read very well."

Justin's reading was slow and laborious. He stumbled over words and became so frustrated that he would pull on his hair as he read. Since he was weak in visual memory, his spelling was just as bad.

Since Justin was so physical, we did many kinesthetic activities with him. After this physical introduction, we initiated our learning therapy program which included cognitive, auditory, memory and academic work. We did a little more physical work with Justin such as work on a balance board, since he loved to move his body.

Results
Justin started working with us in February 2007 and by November 2007 he had progressed from a 2nd grade reading level to a 5th grade reading level. He's read almost every kid's biography about David Beckham and we've told him he'll just have to write his own if he wants to learn more. To that end, we are working on Justin's spelling skills. He is keeping a journal and writing every day. Justin is now able to spell words like they're, their, and there without problem and is one point away from being on the honor roll for the first time in his life.

Justin attacks his work with pride and confidence now. He reads words easily and can sound out words instead of guessing. He continues to be physically gifted and is proud of his soccer accomplishments as well as his academic achievements.

Career Aspirations
Justin wants to be a soccer player in Europe when he grows up.