The Davis Method
A Different Way of Understanding Dyslexia
The Davis approach recognizes that many people with dyslexia think and learn in highly visual and conceptual ways. Davis programs build on individual strengths while providing practical tools for reading, spelling, focus, and learning.
What Is the Davis Method?
The Davis approach was developed by Ronald D. Davis from his own experiences with dyslexia. Davis programs use individualized, hands-on strategies — including orientation and focusing techniques and clay modeling — to help clients develop practical tools for reading, spelling, math, and attention.
Rather than relying on repeated drill or rote memorization, Davis programs work with each individual's learning style, exploring how they experience symbols and concepts and building understanding from that foundation.
Davis programs are educational in nature and are delivered by Licensed Davis® Facilitators trained and licensed by Davis Dyslexia Association International.
How It Works
Orientation Counseling
Clients learn techniques intended to help them recognize disorientation and establish a more focused state for learning.
Symbol Mastery
Using clay modeling and other hands-on techniques, clients explore letters, numbers, punctuation, words, and concepts in a concrete, three-dimensional way.
Reading and Spelling Work
With focusing tools in place and symbols explored, clients work through reading and spelling in a way that builds on their individual strengths and learning style.
Individualized Pacing
Every program is tailored to the individual. There is no fixed curriculum or one-size-fits-all sequence. The work proceeds at the pace that best serves the client.
Who Benefits from the Davis Method?
Davis programs are designed for children, teens, and adults who experience challenges with reading, spelling, writing, math, attention, or other areas of learning addressed by the specific Davis program. Because every learner is different, an initial consultation can help determine whether a Davis program may be an appropriate fit.
- Children, teens, and adults experiencing challenges with reading, spelling, or written language
- Learners who benefit from hands-on, individualized approaches to learning
- Individuals experiencing challenges with attention, focus, or organization
- Learners experiencing difficulty with mathematical concepts and symbols
- Younger learners who may benefit from foundational reading support
What Makes the Davis Method Different
It works with the learner's strengths
Rather than asking clients to work around their challenges, Davis programs identify and build on the visual and conceptual strengths that many dyslexic learners already have.
It looks beyond the symptoms
Rather than focusing only on repeated practice, Davis programs explore how the individual experiences symbols and learning and provide practical tools designed to build greater understanding and confidence.
Skills designed to carry forward
The goal is for clients to develop understanding and practical tools they can continue using independently after completing their program.
It is not tutoring
Davis programs are individualized, facilitated programs rather than traditional tutoring or homework help. Sessions focus on developing tools, understanding, and skills that clients can apply to their own learning.
Want to Learn More?
Schedule a free consultation to talk through whether a program might be a good fit for you or your child.