All posts by Julie Gisbon

How Does Autism Impact Learning?

Autism, Learning Centers, Learning Difficulties, , , ,

how does autism impact learning

Understanding how autism impacts learning is essential for creating an inclusive educational environment. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents unique challenges and strengths that can influence a student’s ability to learn. While some individuals with autism excel in specific areas, they may encounter obstacles in others, affecting their engagement and progress in traditional learning settings. By exploring how autism influences learning abilities, parents and educators can better support these students through tailored strategies and interventions.

 

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

understanding autism and learning

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects individuals’ cognition, communication, interaction, and perception of the world. It is characterized by challenges in education, social skills, repetitive behaviors, and varying degrees of sensory sensitivities. Each individual with ASD experiences these characteristics differently. Some may demonstrate exceptional abilities in areas like mathematics, art, or memory, while others may face difficulties with everyday tasks.

Because autism exists on a spectrum, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning for individuals with ASD. However, there are fundamental cognitive processes that must be developed. Educators and caregivers need to adopt core cognitive brain processes for learning along with individualized life strategies that meet each student’s unique needs. Recognizing their need for solid cognitive learning instruction and allowing for their diversity is key to providing effective support and ensuring that students with autism can thrive.

 

How Autism Influences Learning Abilities

how autism influences learning

Students with autism often display distinct cognitive strengths and challenges. While many excel in tasks requiring attention to detail, pattern recognition, or logical thinking, they may struggle with language comprehension, executive functioning, problem-solving, and social cognition. These difficulties can impact their ability to process information and succeed in a conventional classroom setting.

Sensory sensitivities can further complicate learning. Many individuals with autism experience heightened or diminished sensory responses, making it difficult to focus in environments with loud noises, bright lights, or chaotic surroundings. Adjusting quiet spaces and soft lighting to create a sensory-friendly atmosphere can significantly improve engagement and learning outcomes.

Additionally, some students with autism may have difficulty forming mental representations of information, a condition associated with language comprehension deficits. While individuals with ASD may have domain-specific visual imagery abilities, they may also have a lack of wholistic visual imagery necessary for general cognition. Such a deficit can hinder their understanding of concepts across a broad range of educational demands. 

 

The Role of Parents and Educators in Supporting Learning

how parents can support learning for students with autism

It’s important to assess each child’s strengths and weaknesses to effectively support learning. Understanding individual learning profiles allows parents and educators to identify areas where a child excels and those learning profile-derived areas requiring additional support. Regular professional learning assessments and open communication between home and school help build a comprehensive understanding of the child’s unique needs, paving the way for tailored interventions and accommodations that enhance learning outcomes.

Creating a supportive learning environment is crucial for children with autism, as it significantly influences their ability to engage socially, succeed educationally, and generally thrive in life. Parents and educators can collaborate to establish a space that reduces distractions, incorporates sensory-friendly elements, and promotes positive reinforcement. This nurturing atmosphere fosters confidence and encourages a love of learning, which is essential for children on the autism spectrum.

At Lindamood-Bell, where concerns about the language and cognitive processing abilities of a child with autism may be addressed, a learning ability evaluation can help identify the strengths and challenges in your child’s learning profile. It is the first step in helping your child find support for learning difficulties. 

Accurate diagnostic information and personalized support through evidence-based instruction are key to addressing the diverse needs of children with autism. The Visualizing and Verbalizing program develops oral and written comprehension and critical thinking using neuroscientifically derived research techniques. By implementing targeted interventions, parents and educators can promote academic achievement and foster a sense of independence. Ultimately, collaborative efforts between parents, educators, and specialized programs create a roadmap for success, empowering children with autism to thrive in their educational journeys.

 

Support for Students with Autism at Lindamood-Bell

learning support for autism

At Lindamood-Bell, we understand that autism can impact learning in various ways. Our individualized instruction is designed to build the foundational skills necessary for effective learning. We recognize that each student with autism has unique strengths and challenges, and we tailor our approach to meet their specific needs.

A key component of our instruction is the development of concept imagery, which is the mental representation of oral and written language. This skill is essential for memory and comprehension and its development can significantly develop cognition for students on the autism spectrum. By improving their ability to create mental images of what they are learning, students can better understand and retain information.

 Research supports the effectiveness of the Visualizing and Verbalizing program in improving learning outcomes for individuals with autism. This program develops the ability to visualize concepts and applies that to expressive language and critical thinking skills, helping students develop the sensory-cognitive skills they need for language processing.

At Lindamood-Bell, we are committed to providing a supportive environment where students with autism can thrive.

 

Improving Comprehension for Students with Autism

improving learning for autism

At Lindamood-Bell, students receive individualized instruction using one or more of our founders’ evidence-based programs. The Visualizing and Verbalizing (V/V) program develops concept imagery—the ability to create an imaged gestalt from language—as a basis for comprehension and higher-order thinking. The development of concept imagery improves reading and listening comprehension, memory, oral vocabulary, critical thinking, and writing. Visualizing and Verbalizing® (V/V®) addresses the comprehension needs of students diagnosed with autism. 

The following shows the pre- and post-instruction performance of all students with an autism diagnosis who received Visualizing and Verbalizing instruction at Lindamood-Bell between 2008 and 2023. These students experienced large (statistically significant) improvements in all comprehension subtests after receiving Visualizing and Verbalizing instruction.

 

Students with a Prior ASD Diagnosis Who Received Comprehension Instruction Only

 

comprehension test scores for students with autism

Average Age: 12.1

Number of Students: 1,085

Average Hours of Instruction: 132.5

Program Implemented: Visualizing and Verbalizing

Download Lindamood-Bell Learning Center instruction results for all students, including those on the autism spectrum.

 

Peer-Reviewed Research on Autism 

research on autism and learning

The Cognition, Brain, and Autism (CBrA) Lab at the University of Alabama collaborated with Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes to study the comparative effects of Visualizing and Verbalizing (V/V) on the brains of children on the Autism Spectrum. This fMRI study, highlighted in several peer-reviewed papers, examined activity in the brain’s language areas during comprehension tasks.

Dr. Rajesh Kana, the head of the study, reported that “V/V resulted in changing brain response patterns in children with autism—more focused, specialized brain activity and functional connectivity as a result of intervention.” Associated significant increases in language comprehension were noted against matched controls.

 

Success in Learning for Students with Autism

At Lindamood-Bell, we recognize that every student with autism has unique learning needs. Our instructional strategies are designed to build foundational skills in literacy and comprehension, creating pathways for academic and social growth. By targeting the underlying learning processes, we empower students to gain the confidence and abilities necessary to thrive.

A shining example of this success is Logan, a student with autism. Logan made significant progress in his literacy skills through live online instruction at Lindamood-Bell, gaining newfound confidence. Hear his mother share their inspiring story:

If you’re seeking support for a child or individual with autism, Lindamood-Bell can help. Our dedicated team offers personalized instruction tailored to each student’s strengths and challenges. Contact us today to learn how our instruction can foster meaningful learning success.

Get in touch or call 800-233-1818 to learn more.

Arizona Dept. of Education Selects the Seeing Stars, Visualizing and Verbalizing, and LiPS Programs as Approved Interventions for the Move On When Reading Initiative

For Schools, Professional Development

 

After a recent Arizona Department of Education review, Lindamood-Bell is honored to announce that the Seeing Stars, Visualizing and Verbalizing, and LiPS programs continue to meet all K-3 reading intervention requirements under Move On When Reading. Intervention programs selected for the initiative are recognized as meeting one of the top three evidence tiers, as defined by ESSA.

Since 1986, Lindamood-Bell has worked with schools, educators, and students to implement programs and organizational processes that develop or remediate literacy skills. We help educators provide evidence-based, sensory-cognitive instruction as a basis for developing phonemic awareness, phonics, orthographic awareness, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. 

Our partnerships with schools have succeeded in closing the achievement gap by providing explicit, cumulative, and systematic instruction in this methodology. We have substantial evidence of effectiveness with turning around low-performing schools and increasing reading proficiency with struggling readers, including students with dyslexia and in special education. 

We are proud to support school districts and educators in Arizona to increase literacy.  Below are current and recent school partnerships around The Grand Canyon State:

  • Arizona Department of Corrections
  • Arizona State University Prep Digital
  • Avondale Elementary School District
  • Chandler Unified School District #80
  • Desert Heights Charter Schools
  • Edison School of Innovation
  • Kyrene SD #28
  • Madison SD #38
  • Nogales Unified School District #1
  • Peoria Unified School District
  • Prescott Valley Charter School
  • Tucson Unified School District

 

 

Arizona Dept. of Education – Seeing Stars, Visualizing and Verbalizing, and LiPS programs selected as approved interventions for the Move on When Reading initiative.

Evidence-based programs are key to our solutions for schools.

Our approach addresses the imagery-language foundation that is a silent partner to cognition and literacy—often the missing piece in helping students close the achievement gap. 

Professional development available in the Seeing Stars, Visualizing and Verbalizing, and LiPS programs include teacher workshops, job-embedded coaching, and comprehensive school partnerships. We help schools build expertise in aligning assessments with instruction for students in all tiers of instruction. Our programs address the skills needed for students to access curriculum.

 

Reading and Spelling Programs

Seeing Stars

Symbol Imagery for Phonological and Orthographic Processing in Reading and Spelling

Lindamood Phoneme Sequencing (LiPS)

Phonemic Awareness for Reading, Spelling, and Speech

 

Comprehension Program

Visualizing and Verbalizing (V/V)

Concept Imagery for Language Comprehension, Thinking, and Memory 

 

Explore our professional development workshops and contact us with questions and to discuss how your school can get started.

Contact: Erika Blackwell, Regional Director of Development for Schools

Erika.Blackwell@LindamoodBell.com or pd.solutions@lindamoodbell.com

(805) 546-5786 

View the Arizona Department of Education Guidance – Intervention Guidance < Intervention/Supplemental Reading Programs List

A Clear Window into Your Child’s Learning

Learning Centers, Specials,

 

Our success with students begins with our unique Learning Ability Evaluation. We identify strengths and weaknesses that may be affecting school performance in reading, comprehension, and math.

To get you started, we are pleased to offer our Learning Ability Evaluation at a special rate of $495 (regularly $1150).

 

Learning Ability Evaluation

  • 10+ standardized measures of reading, comprehension, and math
  • Identification of strengths and weaknesses
  • Online or in-person testing 
  • Consultation to explain findings

Learning Skills Measured

  • Sounding Out Words
  • Spelling
  • Word Reading
  • Vocabulary
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Paragraph Reading
  • Math 

Contact us to schedule or call 800-300-1818.

Boost Your Child’s Learning This Summer with Our Reading Camp!

Learning Camps, Reading, , , ,

Reading Camp summer learning

Summer is the perfect time for children to build confidence and strengthen their learning skills in a fun and engaging environment. At Lindamood-Bell, our Summer Reading Camp provides personalized, one-to-one instruction at our Learning Centers designed to help students make significant academic progress in just a few weeks. Students can attend in person or live-online.

 

Why Choose Lindamood-Bell for Summer Learning?

reading camp lindamood-bell instruction

Summer instruction at one of our Learning Centers is customized to focus only on what your child needs—maximizing progress quickly. We begin with a Learning Ability Evaluation to uncover academic strengths and areas for improvement. Based on the results, we design a personalized summer learning plan that will make an immediate and lasting impact on your child’s educational success.

 

How Could Your Child Excel This Summer?

summer reading camp

We specialize in helping students of all abilities, whether they need support in foundational skills or enrichment to advance academically. Here are some key areas we focus on:

Reading

Strong readers easily recognize words and understand text with fluency. If your child struggles, we identify the underlying issues and provide unique, targeted instruction to develop the necessary skills for reading success.

Early Learning

Emerging readers preparing for kindergarten or first grade can develop essential skills for a smooth transition. Our instruction builds the foundation for reading, spelling, and comprehension through proven methods that make early learning enjoyable and effective.

Comprehension

Does your child struggle to understand what they read or hear? Weak concept imagery—the ability to visualize and connect ideas—can affect comprehension, memory, vocabulary, and critical thinking. Our programs teach students how to “see movies in their mind” when they read, significantly improving understanding and recall.

Math

If math feels frustrating, it may be due to difficulty visualizing numbers and concepts. We teach students how to think with numbers, making math more intuitive and less stressful. Our unique approach can turn math struggles into confidence and success.

Academic Prep

For students looking to enhance writing, study skills, organization, and test-taking abilities, our Academic Prep program provides expert instruction to build these essential skills. It’s an excellent way to prepare for the upcoming school year!

 

What Makes Our Reading Camp Unique?

unique reading camp

Reading Camp at our Learning Center stands out due to our specialized instruction that develops foundational learning skills. Our dedicated team provides targeted assistance for individuals with learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD, and autism, ensuring every child receives the support they need to flourish.

A cornerstone of our camp is the personalized education plan created by our team of learning experts. Each student’s plan is tailored to their specific needs. This individualized approach helps build confidence and fosters a love for reading and learning.

We believe learning should be enjoyable, and our camp is designed to be dynamic and fun for students of all ages. Through interactive activities, engaging lessons, and collaborative learning, students improve their reading skills while developing a positive attitude towards education. At Lindamood-Bell, we create an environment where learning is exciting, empowering our students to reach their full potential.

 

What to Expect at Our Reading Camp

summer reading camp for kids

Reading Camp at our Learning Center offers a structured daily schedule centered around one-to-one instruction to ensure individualized attention and maximum progress. Each day begins with a warm welcome, setting a positive tone for learning. Students engage in personalized sessions designed to strengthen decoding, comprehension, and fluency skills based on their unique learning needs.

Unlike traditional group activities, our one-on-one instruction allows students to work at their own pace, focusing on specific areas for growth. Hands-on activities and engaging exercises keep students motivated while reinforcing their reading skills. To celebrate progress, we recognize student achievements, fostering confidence and a love for learning.

A mother shares her daughter’s Reading Camp experience:

“Lindamood-Bell summer instruction has made a world of difference for my daughter. Her academic work is easier, and she has gained higher self-esteem and more confidence overall. It’s amazing to see her progress!”

Read more about her success story:

 

Common Questions about Our Summer Programs

learn about summer reading camp

How long is a summer program?

Programs typically last 4-6 weeks, depending on individual learning needs.

Are there set days and times for camp?

We offer rolling enrollment in our camp, with no set start dates. To get started, speak with one of our experienced learning specialists, who will guide you through the enrollment process and answer any questions.

Which program is right for my child?

A Learning Ability Evaluation will identify strengths and weaknesses that may affect school performance. We’ll then recommend a tailored instruction plan.

Is this only for students with learning disabilities?

We provide individualized instruction to students of all abilities. Some have diagnoses like dyslexia, autism, or ADHD, while others want to advance their skills and make learning easier.

What if we have a vacation planned?

No problem! We may be able to schedule breaks or offer online instruction to keep your child’s learning momentum going.

Will my child have fun at reading camp?

Absolutely! Our positive, dynamic instruction makes learning engaging and enjoyable. Many families are amazed at how much their child loves coming to Lindamood-Bell!

What if I don’t live near you?

You can still enroll! We offer online instruction and instruction may also be available at one of our seasonal locations near you.

 

How to Enroll in Our Reading Camp

lindamood-bell reading camp enrollment

Enrolling your child in our summer Reading Camp is easy! Start by speaking with one of our experienced learning specialists, who will guide you through the enrollment process and answer any questions.

Your child will undergo a Learning Ability Evaluation to understand their unique learning needs. After the evaluation, you’ll have a consultation to discuss a tailored learning plan that aligns with your child’s specific needs and goals.

Once the learning plan is set, your child can begin their transformative learning experience. We offer multiple in-person locations—find a location near you. Prefer online instruction? We also provide live and interactive classes that deliver the same remarkable results.

Get Started Today!

Don’t miss this opportunity for your child to make real learning gains this summer. Call us at 800-300-1818 or get in touch to schedule an evaluation or find your nearest location.

Let’s make this summer a time for growth, confidence, and success!

The Benefits of Small Group Instruction

For Schools, Professional Development, ,

What is Small-Group Instruction?

In small-group instruction, a teacher works with a select number of students, typically between two and six, at a similar academic level. This setup allows the teacher to tailor the instruction to the group’s specific needs, offering individualized support and guidance.

By utilizing small-group instruction, students can experience a variety of benefits. They have increased opportunities for active participation, collaboration, and personalized feedback. Additionally, this approach fosters a supportive and engaging learning environment.

In small-group instruction, the teacher customizes the lesson to meet the specific needs and learning goals of the group. This allows for differentiated instruction, where students receive targeted support and practice in areas where they may struggle or need additional reinforcement.

The goal of small-group instruction is to enhance student learning by creating a supportive and engaging environment. Small groups give students more opportunities to actively participate, ask questions, and receive immediate feedback than they would be able to in a larger classroom setting. This promotes a deeper understanding of the concepts being taught and helps build confidence in their abilities.

Small-group instruction also encourages collaboration and peer learning. Students can learn from each other, share ideas, and develop important social skills such as communication and teamwork. It creates a sense of community within a classroom and fosters a positive learning environment.

At Lindamood-Bell, we understand the benefits of small-group instruction and its positive impact on students’ academic success. Our professional development workshops give teachers the skills to utilize small-group settings to provide individualized instruction in reading, comprehension, and math. By focusing on each student’s unique needs, we help them build the necessary skills and strategies to help their students become confident and independent learners.

 

Why is Small-Group Instruction Important?

teacher reading during small group instruction

Small-group instruction significantly impacts student learning. Unlike traditional whole-class instruction, it allows for personalized attention and tailored instruction that meets students’ individual needs. Working in small groups, students can engage in more active participation, collaborate with peers, and receive immediate feedback from the teacher.

This targeted approach is particularly beneficial for students with learning differences. Small-group instruction allows for differentiated instruction that addresses these needs and meets students at their current level. Teachers can group students who need similar learning interventions to provide targeted support. With small-group instruction, teachers can adapt their strategies to accommodate various learning styles, providing a more inclusive environment.

Furthermore, small-group instruction fosters a sense of community and promotes social skills development. Students interact with peers, share ideas, and learn from each other. This collaborative environment encourages active participation, boosts confidence, and enhances communication skills.

At Lindamood-Bell, we understand the importance of small-group instruction in supporting student success. Our founder’s evidence-based programs, such as Seeing Stars and Visualizing and Verbalizing, are delivered in small-group settings to maximize individualized attention and promote optimal learning outcomes. By harnessing the power of small-group instruction, we empower students to reach their full potential and become confident, independent learners.

 

Advantages of Small-Group Instruction

teacher and student during small group instruction

In small-group settings, students experience increased engagement compared to larger class sizes. With fewer students, teachers can provide individual attention and support, fostering a more interactive and participatory learning environment. Students are more likely to actively participate, ask questions, and contribute to discussions when they feel seen and heard.

Small-group instruction also allows for differentiated instruction. Teachers can tailor lessons to meet the specific needs and abilities of each student. By assessing individual strengths and weaknesses, educators can provide targeted instruction and support, ensuring that every student is challenged appropriately. This personalized approach promotes academic growth and helps students reach their full potential.

Another benefit of small-group instruction is the opportunity for peer collaboration. Working in small groups encourages students to interact with their peers, share ideas, and learn from one another. Collaborative tasks and discussions promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Students benefit from diverse perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of the material through peer interactions.

 

Assessment and Feedback in Small-Group Instruction

students participating in small group instruction

One key benefit of small-group instruction is the ability to provide immediate feedback for student progress. Unlike traditional whole-class instruction, where feedback may be delayed or limited, small-group instruction allows for personalized attention and targeted feedback. This means students receive timely feedback on their performance, enabling them to make immediate adjustments and improvements.

Formative assessment techniques play a crucial role in small-group instruction. Educators can use various strategies to gather real-time data on students’ understanding and progress. Techniques such as questioning help teachers gauge students’ comprehension and identify areas needing additional support or instruction.

Monitoring and adjusting instruction is another advantage of small-group instruction. With fewer students, teachers can closely monitor each student’s progress and adjust their instruction accordingly. This personalized approach allows educators to tailor their teaching strategies to meet the specific needs of individual students, ensuring they receive the appropriate level of challenge and support.

 

Evidence-Based Small-Group Instruction

evidence-based small group instruction

Evidence-based small-group instruction has proven highly beneficial for students with learning challenges. Research shows that providing intensive intervention in a classroom setting can significantly support these students in their academic journey.

At Lindamood-Bell, we understand the importance of using evidence-based practices to help students reach their full potential. That’s why we offer professional development programs focused on strengthening the imagery-language foundation, ultimately improving learning outcomes.

 

Educators: Learn Effective Instruction Skills with Lindamood-Bell

teacher professional development for small group instruction

Lindamood-Bell offers professional development workshops for teachers to learn evidence-based small-group instruction strategies for literacy and math intervention.

We understand the importance of small-group instruction in promoting effective learning outcomes. Our workshops are designed to equip teachers with the knowledge and tools needed to implement successful small-group instruction in the classroom. Through a combination of instructional videos, demonstrations, and interactive activities, teachers learn how to create engaging and effective learning experiences for their students. Our live, interactive, online workshops are available year-round, providing teachers with the opportunity to gain valuable skills to help students with literacy and language challenges.

Visit our Toolkit for Educators to access valuable resources, free materials, and information to support instructional practices.

Learn how Lindamood-Bell can help you enhance your instructional skills and positively impact student learning outcomes. Get in touch today and discover the benefits of small-group instruction!

 

Parents: Small Group Instruction for Reading & Comprehension at Our Learning Center 

individualized small group instruction

Small group instruction is available at a Lindamood-Bell Learning Center for students who qualify. Affordable instruction paired with our renowned quality and proven results!

  • Personalized Attention: Groups of just 2-3 students per instructor
  • Significant Savings: Over 40% off compared to individual instruction
  • Flexible Scheduling: Two to four sessions daily, five days a week
  • Availability: Offered during the school year (not available in summer)
  • Location Options: Join us in our Learning Center or online
  • Expert Instruction: Delivered by highly trained Lindamood-Bell consultants and clinicians
  • Proven Methods: Evidence-based instruction that delivers measurable results

Contact us to learn more about how Lindamood-Bell can make an impact on your child’s learning. Find your location here.

Maximize Summer Learning with Proven Professional Development: Transform Student Success

For Schools, Professional Development, Reading, ,

Proven Professional Development and Student Success

Summer is the ideal time for educators to enhance students’ instructional skills and prepare for the next academic year. Schools that invest in professional development over the summer create lasting change, empowering teachers with evidence-based strategies that benefit all students.

 

Case Study in Action

Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD) successfully launched an intensive summer program with two key goals:

  1. Deliver evidence-based, sensory-cognitive instruction to the most vulnerable students.
  2. Provide job-embedded professional development that helps teachers implement structured, engaging, and adaptable lessons.

This dual approach not only accelerated student progress over the summer but also fostered collaboration between Tiers 2 and 3, ensuring continued impact throughout the school year. 

The result? Improved literacy outcomes and a more inclusive approach to education.

 

Evidence-Based Solutions

Lindamood-Bell’s proven professional development can equip educators with the skills they need to differentiate instruction, enhance student engagement, and support struggling readers with research-backed, sensory-cognitive methods.

 

Get in touch now to reserve your summer PD spot or discuss how Lindamood-Bell can help your district create lasting change.

 

What is Aphantasia?

Comprehension, Learning Difficulties

 

Understanding Aphantasia

Aphantasia is a condition in which an individual cannot form or has difficulty forming visual images in their mind. It is thought to affect an estimated 2-5% of the population. Though not widely recognized, understanding this phenomenon is helpful for educators, parents, and individuals. Termed by Professor Adam Zeman in 2015, aphantasia seems to affect one’s capacity to imagine or recall details about people, places, objects, or events. 

Aphantasia can range from the complete absence of visual imagery to faint or fragmented images. Some individuals report that they cannot create any mental images, while others may have limited or blurry ones. Some report that they experience variations in visualizing specific types of images, such as faces, landscapes, or objects, underscoring the complexity of the condition and its potential impact on learning and daily life.

These difficulties are not related to vision impairment but reflect differences in how the brain processes information. Recent studies suggest aphantasia occurs in about 4% of the general population, and due to its subjective nature, the number of individuals who would meet the criteria is still being determined. (Dance, Ipser, Simner, 2022)

Although the exact cause of aphantasia is not fully understood, researchers have identified several potential triggers and contributing factors. One possible cause is the lack of activation or connectivity in the brain’s visual processing areas. Studies have shown that individuals with aphantasia exhibit reduced activity in the visual cortex, suggesting a neurological basis for the condition. People with this condition often struggle to recall or recognize visual details from past experiences, indicating a connection between visual imagery and memory retrieval.(Montabes de la Cruz, Belén M. et al. 2024)

Additionally, individuals’ ability to generate mental imagery varies and a distinctive relationship exists between image generation and cognitive processes such as memory and language comprehension. Indeed, the correspondence between imaginal skills and learning in general is pervasive.

At Lindamood-Bell, our nearly forty years of clinical research and experience have shown that many students struggle to create holistic or gestalt images due to weaknesses in the brain’s sensory systems. 

Lindamood-Bell refers to this as concept imagery, the ability to create an imaged gestalt from oral and written language. It has been found that this ability is crucial for oral and written language comprehension, including understanding abstract and complex ideas. While individuals may have differing abilities, the imaginal processes needed for reading comprehension are not different. Sensory-cognitive functions such as creating mental representations can be developed, changing an individual’s ability to comprehend oral and written language.

Individuals with aphantasia can benefit from explicit instruction on how to image. The Visualizing and Verbalizing® (V/V®) program develops concept imagery—the ability to create an imagined or imaged gestalt from language—as a basis for comprehension and higher-order thinking. The development of concept imagery improves reading and listening comprehension, memory, oral vocabulary, critical thinking, and writing.

Lindamood-Bell is contributing to the growing body of research regarding aphantasia.  

At The Eye’s Mind: Visual Imagination, Neuroscience and the Humanities Conference in the United Kingdom, Lindamood-Bell co-founder and author of Visualizing and Verbalizing for Language Comprehension and Thinking, Nanci Bell, and Lindamood-Bell’s Research and Development Director, Paul Worthington, contributed to the conference dialogue on the role of imagery in education. Their presentation, Visual Imagery: The Nonverbal Code for Language and Cognition, underscored the critical link between visual imagery and cognitive functions, emphasizing how behavioral neuroscience has confirmed the foundational role of visual imagery in oral and written language comprehension. Recent studies have also documented how improving visual imagery can address deficits like aphantasia, correlating these findings with language comprehension improvements.

Grounded in Dual Coding Theory (DCT), which asserts that human cognition relies on both verbal and nonverbal processing, the session highlighted how systematic instructional approaches can activate the nonverbal imagery code, facilitating language skills in learners of all ages. Drawing on over 30 years of instructional experience and work with more than 35,000 children across the U.S., the U.K., and Australia, five key insights into the imagery-language connection have emerged:

  1. Significant individual differences exist in the ability to generate visual imagery.
  2. A strong correlation exists between visual imagination and language comprehension.
  3. Individuals can learn to consciously create visual images, leading to significant gains in reading and language comprehension.
  4. Linking the sensory input of imagery to language results in significant neurological changes and reading improvements in children with dyslexia
  5. Stimulating the imagery-language connection in children with autism spectrum disorder improves language comprehension, accompanied by fundamental changes in the connectivity of the brain regions involved in reading comprehension.

 

Diagnosis and Support for Aphantasia

support for aphantasia

Recognizing the signs and symptoms is the first step toward receiving appropriate support for aphantasia. Common indicators include an inability to visualize people, places, or objects, difficulty recalling visual details, and a general lack of concept imagery. At Lindamood-Bell, we understand that individuals of all ages may experience challenges related to weak concept imagery, which can result in difficulties with:

  • Reading comprehension
  • Listening comprehension
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Following directions
  • Memory
  • Oral language expression
  • Written language expression
  • Grasping humor
  • Interpreting social situations
  • Understanding cause and effect

Lindamood-Bell’s evidence-based instruction helps individuals develop their mental imagery abilities. The Visualizing and Verbalizing (V/V) program strengthens the sensory-cognitive skill of concept imagery. Our targeted instruction provides the foundation students need for academics and daily life.

 

Proven Results for Improving Comprehension  

Improving comprehension for students with aphantasia

At Lindamood-Bell, students receive individualized instruction using one or more of our founders’ evidence-based programs. The Visualizing and Verbalizing (V/V) program develops concept imagery—the ability to create an imaged gestalt from language—as a basis for comprehension and higher-order thinking. The development of concept imagery improves reading and listening comprehension, memory, oral vocabulary, critical thinking, and writing. Visualizing and Verbalizing® (V/V®) addresses the needs of students diagnosed with aphantasia. 

The following shows the pre- and post-instruction performance of all students who received Visualizing and Verbalizing instruction at Lindamood-Bell between 2008 and 2023. These students experienced large (statistically significant) improvements in all comprehension subtests after receiving Visualizing and Verbalizing instruction.

 

Results of Students Who Received Comprehension Instruction

 

Lindamood-Bell Instruction Implemented: Visualizing and Verbalizing

On average, students who received Visualizing and Verbalizing instruction achieved significant improvements in areas associated with language comprehension. Our Comprehension-Only student population represents about 24% of our total Learning Center population. They made large (statistically significant) standard score changes on two of the three measures. Additionally, the 22-point percentile increase in Written Language Comprehension moves these students from a deficit condition to well within the normal range (25th—75th percentile).

Year: Jan. 2008 – Dec. 2023

Number of Students: 6,462

Average Age: 12.4

Average Hours of Instruction: 103.8

 

Help for Aphantasia at Lindamood-Bell

help for aphantasia

Lindamood-Bell provides individualized, evidence-based instruction to assist students facing reading, comprehension, and math challenges, including those diagnosed with aphantasia. Whether your student has been diagnosed with aphantasia or is just struggling with comprehension, we can help. 

Our instruction begins with a comprehensive Learning Ability Evaluation. This assessment identifies underlying learning challenges and helps us understand your student’s unique needs. Based on the evaluation results, we develop a personalized instruction plan tailored to address the root causes of their learning difficulties. Take the first step toward transforming your student’s future by scheduling a Learning Ability Evaluation today.

 

Student Story: Overcoming Reading and Comprehension Difficulties 

Watch a family’s inspiring story of how Lindamood-Bell transformed their student’s learning. Through our programs, the student developed stronger mental imagery skills and significantly improved comprehension.

 

We believe every individual has the potential to thrive, and we are dedicated to helping students reach their full learning potential, including those who have a diagnosis of aphantasia. Contact us today to get started. 

Get in touch or call 800-300-1818 to learn more. 

 

References:

The prevalence of aphantasia (imagery weakness) in the general population,
Dance, C.J. et. al.
Consciousness and Cognition, Volume 97, 2022

Decoding sound content in the early visual cortex of aphantasic participants
Montabes de la Cruz, Belén M. et al.
Current Biology, Volume 34, Issue 21, 5083 – 5089.e3 2024

Stronger Math Skills—Anytime, Anywhere with Live-Online Help

Learning Centers, Math, Online, , , ,

 

Are you worried that your child is struggling in math? Many students need extra support to build confidence and stay on track. At Lindamood-Bell, we specialize in helping students catch up and excel, no matter their starting point.

 

What Sets Our Math Instruction Apart?

Our evidence-based On Cloud Nine: Visualizing and Verbalizing for Math instruction integrates concept and numerical imagery with language to enhance computation and problem-solving. This dual focus on mathematical reasoning and computation helps students build a solid foundation in math, leading to greater success in the classroom.

Key Focus Areas:

  • Mastering Math Facts: We use imagery-based learning to help students visualize and internalize essential math facts, making recall faster and easier.
  • Solving Word Problems with Confidence: Students gain the tools to break down and solve complex word problems by connecting numerical and conceptual imagery with language.
  • Building a Deep Understanding of Math Concepts: Our approach goes beyond rote learning. We help students comprehend the why behind mathematical processes, setting them up for long-term success.

 

Real Student Success Stories

We’ve seen countless students transform their math skills—and their confidence! Nikki, a mom whose son Bryson was struggling, shared their experience:

“He started getting very low scores on his math tests. After receiving instruction at Lindamood-Bell, he’s now describing himself as a good math student again. He’s back on track in math!”

Watch their story here:

 

Proven Results Backed by Research

Our programs aren’t just effective—they’re backed by peer-reviewed research demonstrating their success. See the results and explore the research behind On Cloud Nine.

 

Get Started Today!

With in-person and live-online instruction, Lindamood-Bell makes supporting your child’s learning from anywhere easy. Our flexible, interactive lessons bring expert math instruction to your home, helping your child build skills and confidence at their own pace.

Special Offer: Enroll in online math instruction now and receive 10% off!*

Call us at 800-300-1818 or click to learn more and schedule instruction.

 

*Applicable to new online instruction enrollment only. Must enroll by March 31, 2025, for at least 100 sessions (or instructional recommendation). Not valid in the UK.

Multi-Sensory Learning: A Lindamood-Bell Perspective

For Schools, Instruction, Reading, ,

Multi-Sensory Learning

 

At Lindamood-Bell, multi-sensory learning is integral to our evidence-based approach. Decades of research and practical application have enabled us to refine techniques that build essential reading, comprehension, and math skills. By engaging learners through multiple senses, we help students learn to their potential.

 

What Is Multi-Sensory Learning?

multi-sensory learning techniques

Multi-sensory learning is an instructional approach that actively engages multiple senses—visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile—during the learning process to enhance understanding and retention.

At Lindamood-Bell, our approach to education incorporates multi-sensory learning strategies to provide students with a transformative educational experience. Our evidence-based methods are designed to develop essential sensory-cognitive skills, laying the foundation for lasting academic success. For example, in a reading activity, students might see a word, hear it spoken aloud, say it themselves, trace its letters with a finger, and visualize the letters in their minds. 

 

Why Multi-Sensory Learning Matterswhy multi-sensory learning matters

Lindamood-Bell’s instructional methods draw upon cognitive science to address how the brain learns to read. Reading is an integration of sensory processing skills: word attack, sight word recognition, contextual fluency, oral vocabulary, and comprehension.

While phonological awareness is widely recognized as critical for reading, Lindamood-Bell also focuses on two lesser-known but equally important sensory-cognitive skills: symbol imagery (visualizing letters and words) and concept imagery (creating mental representations of language). These skills are often missing in struggling readers and are not explicitly developed in most traditional reading programs.

Traditional methods frequently isolate sensory channels, emphasizing phonics and phoneme awareness without integrating orthographic processing, fluency, or comprehension. While phonological skills are essential, they are insufficient on their own. By explicitly developing symbol imagery and concept imagery, educators can build a stronger foundation for reading, ensuring success for both emerging and struggling readers. 

 

How Lindamood-Bell Incorporates Multi-Sensory Learning

multi sensory learning instruction Lindamood-Bell

At Lindamood-Bell, our founders’ programs embody a multi-sensory approach, integrating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities to support students in building strong cognitive foundations for academic success. Engaging multiple senses enhances how learners process, understand, and retain information. Below are examples of how the programs we use incorporate multi-sensory techniques.

Visualizing and Verbalizing for Language Comprehension and Thinking:

The Visualizing and Verbalizing® (V/V®) program develops concept imagery—the ability to create a mental picture from language—fostering comprehension and higher-order thinking. Multi-sensory tools, including visual aids, gestures, auditory prompts, and kinesthetic tools like colored felt squares, are utilized to strengthen reading, listening, memory, oral vocabulary, and writing skills. 

Download a chapter of the Visualizing and Verbalizing (V/V) program manual to learn more. 

 

Talkies® Program for Oral Language Comprehension & Expression

The Talkies® program—the primer to the Visualizing and Verbalizing (V/V) program—is designed for students who need simpler, smaller steps of instruction to establish the imagery-language connection.

The goal of the Talkies program is to develop the dual coding of imagery and language as a base for language comprehension and expression. The Talkies program is especially helpful for students with a limited oral vocabulary and/or limited ability to verbalize. Utilizing a structured, multi-sensory approach, the Talkies program engages auditory, visual, tactile, and kinesthetic modalities to reinforce language development. One example of this is a step in which students hold and describe a small toy, combining auditory input (listening and speaking), tactile feedback (touching the object), and kinesthetic interaction (physical handling). This integration of sensory experiences supports language processing, memory, and expression.

Explore the Talkies program—download a chapter of the Teacher’s manual. 

 

Seeing Stars® Program (Symbol Imagery for Phonological and Orthographic Processing)

The Seeing Stars® program focuses on developing symbol imagery—the ability to visualize letters and sounds—as a basis for reading and spelling. It incorporates a blend of sensory activities such as air-writing, tracing on surfaces, and using visual and tactile tools like syllable boards and colored squares. These activities reinforce letter-sound associations and build strong reading and spelling skills through auditory, visual, and kinesthetic engagement.

Download Chapters 2 and 3 of the Seeing Stars program manual to learn more.

 

LiPS® (Lindamood Phoneme Sequencing) Program

The LiPS® (Lindamood Phoneme Sequencing) Program engages visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic modalities to improve phonemic awareness, an essential skill for reading and spelling. This program incorporates techniques like tactile feedback, kinesthetic awareness of mouth movements, auditory processing exercises, and visual reinforcement through charts and diagrams. These activities help learners differentiate sounds and link spoken and written language.

Discover more about the LiPS (Lindamood Phoneme Sequencing) Program. Download a chapter of the Teacher’s manual. 

 

On Cloud Nine® Math Program

The On Cloud Nine® Math Program stimulates concept imagery to support mathematical reasoning and computation. Using visual, tactile, and auditory methods, such as manipulatives and verbal explanations, On Cloud Nine builds a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. The multi-sensory strategies used help learners of all ages or grade levels develop the foundational skills needed for success in higher math. 

Discover more about the On Cloud Nine Math Program. Download a chapter of the Teacher’s manual.

Each program’s multi-sensory approach engages students holistically, creating a flexible learning environment that addresses each student’s unique learning needs.

 

Benefits and Science of Multi-Sensory Learning for Educators

professional development in multi-sensory learning

Incorporating multi-sensory techniques in the classroom offers numerous advantages, such as enhancing student engagement and participation, supporting learners with diverse needs (including those with dyslexia or ADHD), and improving foundational skills in reading, comprehension, and math. This approach fosters an inclusive and dynamic learning environment, benefiting all students by addressing individual learning needs.

The research underscores the effectiveness of multi-sensory learning in promoting engagement and retention. By activating multiple sensory pathways—visual, auditory, and kinesthetic—this method strengthens neural connections, enhancing memory and comprehension. It’s particularly beneficial for students with learning differences, making it a powerful tool for educators to integrate into their teaching practices.

Explore results and case studies from schools that have successfully implemented Lindamood-Bell’s unique sensory-cognitive approach to see its positive impact on student achievement. 

 

Enhance Your Skills with Lindamood-Bell: Professional Development Opportunities

workshops for multi-sensory learning techniques

Lindamood-Bell is dedicated to equipping educators with the skills and strategies to incorporate multi-sensory learning into their classrooms. Our interactive, hands-on workshops provide evidence-based techniques designed to transform instruction and foster student success.

Attending one of our professional development workshops will give you actionable insights and practical methods to enhance your teaching practice. Dive into the science of multi-sensory learning, discover how to implement it effectively, and join a thriving community of educators committed to making a difference in students’ lives.

Led by program experts, Lindamood-Bell teacher workshops provide tools to improve literacy and learning outcomes for students of all abilities. These dynamic sessions empower educators to create engaging, inclusive, and impactful learning environments.

Contact us today to learn more about our professional development workshops and join a growing network of educators transforming education with Lindamood-Bell’s unique approach. Call us at 800-233-1819, or click here to schedule a brief consultation with a program expert to discuss your professional development needs.

Your Child Can Find Success at Lindamood-Bell Academy

Academy, Podcast

 

Struggling in the third grade, Shari’s son Oliver faced daily challenges with schoolwork that dragged on for hours, often ending in tears and exhaustion. Determined to break the cycle, she sought a school to meet her child’s unique learning needs.

 

The results were life-changing. From the very start, Oliver came home excited to share what he was learning, developed a newfound love for reading, and even began volunteering to read aloud for the family—a remarkable turnaround. “It was the best decision of our life,” she shares.

 

Now thriving academically, Oliver has discovered a passion for science and dreams of a bright future. Don’t miss this inspiring story of resilience, hope, and finding the perfect educational fit.

 

Listen to Shari and Oliver’s story:

 

Our renowned sensory-cognitive instruction, individualized curriculum, and highly engaged and positive instructors provide the educational environment that will enable your child to experience success.

Enroll in Lindamood-Bell Academy by February 28 and receive 10% off your final month’s tuition.*

 

Call 800-300-1818 or get in touch to enroll.