Making Sense of Learning Struggles
Every child processes the world differently. When something feels "off," understanding the underlying cognitive areas helps us know exactly where to start.
Does This Sound Familiar?
Many parents describe similar experiences. Click any that resonate to learn more.
"My child can't seem to focus—everything is a distraction"
Focus & Attention"Conversations often end in misunderstandings or hurt feelings"
Social Interaction"Instructions go in one ear and out the other"
Memory"Homework that should take 20 minutes takes two hours"
Executive SkillsRecognize more than one? That's common—these areas are interconnected.
Focus & Attention
Often seen in: ADHD, sensory processing differences
Building the ability to concentrate, filter distractions, and maintain engagement
Signs of Challenge
- Difficulty staying on task
- Easily distracted by sounds or movement
- Trouble following multi-step instructions
- Frequently loses track of what they were doing
How We Help
We use structured activities that gradually build attention span and teach self-monitoring strategies. Learners develop awareness of their attention and learn techniques to refocus.
Learning Processes
Often seen in: Learning differences, processing delays
Developing effective strategies for acquiring, processing, and applying new information
Signs of Challenge
- Takes longer to learn new concepts
- Difficulty connecting new information to existing knowledge
- Struggles to identify patterns
- Trouble applying learned skills to new situations
How We Help
Through mediated learning, we help learners understand how they process information and develop more effective learning strategies. We build metacognitive awareness.
Reading & Writing
Often seen in: Dyslexia, bilingual learners
Strengthening bilingual literacy skills with personalized, research-based methods
Signs of Challenge
- Reading below grade level
- Difficulty with spelling or writing
- Avoids reading tasks
- Trouble comprehending what is read
How We Help
We combine research-based literacy instruction with cognitive development. For bilingual learners, we leverage skills in one language to build the other.
Organization
Often seen in: ADHD, executive dysfunction
Building systems for managing time, materials, and multi-step tasks effectively
Signs of Challenge
- Messy workspace or backpack
- Frequently loses things
- Difficulty managing time
- Trouble planning projects or tasks
How We Help
We develop systematic approaches to organization, breaking down tasks into manageable steps and creating personal systems that work for each learner.
Memory
Often seen in: Learning differences, ADHD
Improving working memory and long-term retention through targeted exercises
Signs of Challenge
- Forgets instructions quickly
- Difficulty retaining what was learned
- Trouble remembering sequences
- Needs frequent repetition
How We Help
We strengthen working memory through targeted exercises and teach memory strategies like visualization, chunking, and association that improve retention.
Executive Skills
Often seen in: ADHD, anxiety, trauma
Developing planning, decision-making, and self-regulation capabilities
Signs of Challenge
- Acts without thinking
- Difficulty starting or finishing tasks
- Trouble with self-control
- Poor decision-making
How We Help
We develop planning, impulse control, and self-regulation through structured activities that require thinking ahead and monitoring one's own behavior.
Built on Proven Methods
Our approach is grounded in Feuerstein's theory of Structural Cognitive Modifiability—the science that intelligence is not fixed, but can be developed through mediated learning experiences.
Mrs. Gómez brings 29 years of educational expertise to help your learner build lasting cognitive skills.
Learn about our servicesThe Whole Learner
These cognitive areas don't exist in isolation—they work together. A learner struggling with attention often has challenges with memory and organization too.
"A diagnosis doesn't have the last word. Every mind can grow."
That's why we address the whole learner, building cognitive functions that support each other and transfer to all areas of life.
These cognitive areas don't exist in isolation—they work together. A learner struggling with attention often has challenges with memory and organization too.
That's why we address the whole learner, building cognitive functions that support each other and transfer to all areas of life.
Common Questions
Can you work on multiple areas at once?
Yes! In fact, cognitive areas naturally overlap. When we strengthen attention, it often improves memory and organization too. We create integrated plans that address your learner's unique combination of needs.
How do I know which area to focus on first?
During our free consultation, we'll discuss your observations and concerns to identify the most impactful starting point. Often, addressing foundational areas like attention or executive function creates a ripple effect of improvement across other areas.
Do you work with specific diagnoses like ADHD or dyslexia?
We work with learners regardless of diagnosis. Our focus is on building cognitive skills, not treating conditions. Many families find our approach complements other therapies and interventions.
How long before we see improvement?
Many families notice subtle changes within the first few weeks—better focus during homework, improved frustration tolerance, or increased confidence. More significant cognitive changes typically develop over 3-6 months of consistent work.
Social Interaction
Often seen in: Autism spectrum, social anxiety
Enhancing communication skills and understanding of social cues and relationships
Signs of Challenge
How We Help
We work on understanding others' perspectives, interpreting social situations, and developing communication strategies—all through mediated discussion and practice.