Every Parent Deserves a Sound Mind When It Comes to Their Child’s Learning Journey
Whether you’re overwhelmed by the special education processes, unsure about where to start after your child was diagnosed with a specific learning disability, concerned about your child lack of growth in literacy, or seeking the right enrichment opportunities, we offer expert guidance and clear next steps to support you and your child.We work with children ages 7–18 who have a diagnosed or suspected learning disability, are learning English as an additional language, or are ready to grow through enrichment.We offer 1:1 remediation services, literacy enrichment, informal literacy assessments, and IEP consultations—all designed to build confidence, skills, and meaningful progress through family-centered, flexible instruction.
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About Us
Sound Mind Learning
Our Mission
At Sound Mind Learning, we support neurodiverse children, especially those with dyslexia and other learning differences, through personalized virtual reading instruction. Each session is tailored to meet the child’s unique needs and learning style. We work closely with families to create meaningful learning experiences that builds skills and boost confidence in their children.Our Vision
We envision a world where every child feels seen, supported, and confident in their ability to learn and thrive. Through compassionate teaching and meaningful collaboration with families, we’re helping to reshape what learning success looks like—celebrating individual growth and honoring the diverse ways children learn.Why "Sound Mind" ?
Our name comes from 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV):
"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind."This verse reminds us that fear, anxiety, and confusion don’t have to control the way we live or learn. For many children, learning to read can feel overwhelming. For parents, not knowing how to help can bring stress and self-doubt. This promise encourages us to replace fear with calm, to meet challenges with love, and to move forward with a clear and steady mind. At Sound Mind Learning, we offer a supportive space where families can take a deep breath, find their footing, and grow in confidence one step at a time.
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Meet the Founder- Michaela Gilman
Hi, I’m Michaela Gilman, the founder of Sound Mind Learning and a dedicated educator who truly loves helping children grow into confident, capable readers.I hold a B.A. in Elementary Education (K-6) and Special Education (K-12) from Doane University, where I graduated magna cum laude and in the top eight percent of my class. I’m certified in both areas and have specialized training in the Orton-Gillingham approach. I also have experience supporting English language learners.I work with neurodiverse learners, including students with dyslexia and other learning differences. My virtual lessons are personalized, engaging, and based on evidence-based practices that help students make real progress. I tailor every session to fit each child’s unique strengths, challenges, and learning style.More than anything, I want your child to feel seen, supported, and encouraged. I believe in progress over perfection and in celebrating every small step forward. My goal is not only to improve reading skills but also to build confidence and help each child see themselves as a successful learner.When I’m not teaching, you can usually find me in the garden, out exploring in nature with my family, or daydreaming about farm life.If you're looking for support that meets your child where they are and helps them grow with confidence, I’d love to be part of their journey.
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Services
Reading Remediation Services ~ Targeted, One-on-One Instruction for Struggling ReadersOur individualized reading sessions are designed for children who need additional support in building strong literacy foundations or have been formally diagnosed with a specific learning disability such as dyslexia.Using structured literacy, multi-sensory approaches like Orton-Gillingham, we help students strengthen:• Phonemic awareness and phonics
• Word decoding and encoding (spelling)
• Reading fluency and comprehensionEach session is tailored to your child’s unique needs, with instruction that adapts as they grow. We prioritize a compassionate approach that supports both skill development and confidence.Every sessions includes:✔ One-on-one, personalized instruction
✔ Ongoing progress monitoring, with regular mastery checks and parent check-ins to share growth and next steps
✔ Real-time constructive feedback and encouragement
✔ Integrated social-emotional support to build confidence, resilience, and motivation
✔ Clear session summaries to celebrate progressFamilies can enhance their child's support with add-on services such as:• Interactive at-home skill builders to reinforce learning between sessions
• Expert parent coaching to boost your child’s success
• Direct collaboration with your child’s school team
• Detailed written progress reports for long-term insightWe’ll help you choose the package that best fits your family during your consultation.
Book Club Enrichment Program ~ Small Groups for Curious and Creative ReadersOur book clubs are designed for children who enjoy reading and want to explore stories more deeply—while connecting with peers in a fun, thoughtful environment. Each small-group session blends teacher guidance with student-led discussion to build confidence, critical thinking, and a lasting love for literature.What’s Included:✔ 4-8 small-group sessions
✔ Guided literary discussions based on a shared novel
✔ Vocabulary exploration and comprehension-building activities
✔ Creative extension projects to deepen engagement
✔ Optional monthly reading challenge
✔ Weekly Parent Summary Email
Informal Literacy Assessments~ Immediate Insight While You Wait for a Formal AssessmentIf your child is struggling with reading and you’re on a long waitlist for formal testing, this one-time virtual session offers timely, actionable insight into their literacy needs. Using research-based assessments and leveled texts, we evaluate the foundational reading skills essential for success.What’s Included:
✔ One-on-one virtual assessment
✔ Evaluation of key reading areas:
• Phonemic awareness
• Phonics & decoding
• Reading fluency
• Reading comprehension
• Spelling
✔ Written summary report of your child’s strengths and areas of need
✔ Personalized recommendations for next steps
✔ Optional 15-minute parent follow-up to review results and answer questionsNote: This is not a formal diagnosis but can provide immediate clarity and guide effective support without delay.
Parent Advocacy Coaching ~ Empowering parents to advocate for their child’s educationIf you’re feeling unsure about how to effectively advocate for your child’s educational needs or navigate the complexities of school services, you’re not alone. This personalized coaching session empowers you with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to speak up, ask the right questions, and ensure your child receives the support they deserve.What’s Included:
✔ One-on-one, 45-minute virtual coaching session
✔ Help identifying your next steps in seeking or improving school support
✔ Guidance on IEPs, 504 plans, evaluations, and accommodations
✔ Personalized preparation for upcoming school meetings
✔ Communication strategies for working effectively with school teams
✔ Emotional support and confidence-building for caregivers
✔ Optional written summary with key takeaways and action steps
Sound Support Program
We offer a limited number of reduced rate spots each quarter through our Sound Support Program to families who are enrolled in ongoing sessions and meet specific financial eligibility criteria.Flexible payment options are available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Orton-Gillingham approach?
Orton-Gillingham is a structured, multisensory method proven effective for teaching reading—especially for neurodiverse learners and those with dyslexia. It emphasizes explicit teaching of phonics, blending visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning.Q: How much do your services cost?
Because we tailor support to each child and family, pricing varies based on the type and level of service. During your free consultation, we’ll talk through your goals and recommend the best option for your child. After that, we’ll provide a clear breakdown of what’s included — with no pressure to commit.Q: Can you help if my child has a formal diagnosis or just struggles with reading?
Yes! We work with both children with formal diagnoses and those who simply need extra support to build foundational reading skills.Q: What technology do we need?
Students need a reliable internet connection, a laptop or tablet, and access to Zoom. Headphones are helpful but not required.Q: Are you a tutoring service?
Not quite—we’re learning specialists, not traditional tutors. We design and deliver custom instruction based on each child’s unique learning profile, using evidence-based methods and ongoing progress monitoring.Q: What kind of books do you use in the Book Club Enrichment Program?
We choose high-interest, age-appropriate books/novels that support deep thinking, vocabulary growth, and enjoyment. Families are able to preview the book/novel titles prior to the first session.Q: How long does it usually take to see progress?
Progress varies based on the child's starting point and consistency of sessions. Most families notice improvements within the first few months of regular instruction.Q: How long are sessions?
Sessions range between 30-60 minutes, depending on the service.Q: Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, we offer flexible payment options for all families.Q: Who is eligible for the Sound Support Program?
Families currently enrolled in ongoing sessions who can demonstrate financial need. This can be shown through participation in assistance programs, a referral, or financial documents (optional). All applications are reviewed confidentially. Please note that meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee placement, as available spots are limited and reassessed quarterly.Q: How do I apply for the Sound Support Program?
Eligible families can request an application by emailing [email protected]Q: How do we get started?
Click on the calendar icon to schedule a free 15 minute consultation directly. If you have any additional questions, you can email us at [email protected]. We will get back to you within 1-2 business days.
Ready to support your child's learning journey?Click on the calendar icon below to book a free consultation.
© 2025 Sound Mind Learning LLC. All rights reserved.Hours of Operation
Monday – Thursday: 9am – 5pm (CST)
Friday – Sunday : Closed