Reading Allowed

Program Overview

Reading Allowed believes that every struggling reader deserves the highest quality structured literacy instruction regardless of financial circumstances. Instruction is delivered by tutors who have been rigorously trained and certified in the most effective methods based on scientific research. Our hope is that all struggling readers become lifelong and joyous readers and writers.

Reading Allowed is the only nonprofit in Philly whose tutors are trained and certified in programs such as the Wilson Reading System®. They understand the stages of literacy development, recognize when students are not developing as skilled readers, and deliver the correct instructional tools to maximize student success. Reading Allowed conducts initial assessments and ongoing progress monitoring to ensure students are making anticipated progress.

Reading Allowed works with struggling readers of all ages (pre-K-adult). Each student works with a tutor for 2-3 sessions a week either in person or virtually.

Cost Info

Student and Volunteer Success Stories

My daughter has just started working with Reading Allowed. She loves her tutor Ms. Katie and is using the tools she gives her to help her sound out and read words. I see a growing confidence in her each time she finishes her tutoring session. When I used to mention reading, my daughter would cry, but now she is excited to learn more. I am forever grateful for this program! Reading Allowed parent - 10/27/20 I'm so grateful that my daughter has had the opportunity to benefit from the services that Reading Allowed provides. I want to thank Ms. Kelly, her teacher, and the whole team behind this great program that has allowed my daughter to be able to read at her 5th grade reading level. My daughter is no longer shy or afraid to read aloud. Thank you. Reading Allowed parent - 10/31/20 Working with Reading Allowed has really helped my struggling reader feel more confident in his skills. We have worked with many tutors in the past, but working with a Wilson Certified instructor really makes all the difference. My son is learning not just how to read, but also how to decode, encode and comprehend what he is reading. My son never picked up a book on his own because it was such a struggle. Now he is beginning to see books in a more positive light. Thank you so much! Reading Allowed parent 1/31/21 For the past year my nine year old granddaughter has worked with Reading Allowed. Public school professionals and tutors had been trying to provide remediation, but she continued to fall further behind as her self confidence dwindled. Our tutor's expertise in Wilson reading instruction along with her gentle manner and patience has been invaluable. Most significantly, my granddaughter now enjoys reading and has recently shared that it is her favorite subject. Our family is grateful to Reading Allowed for helping our third grader strengthen her reading and improve her self-esteem. Reading Allowed parent 3/10/21 My daughter has struggled with reading for the past 5 years. We tried everything, from reading tutors to online programs. Nothing worked until we met our tutor from Reading Allowed. Engaging Reading Allowed has been the greatest decision for me as a parent. After just four months, I watched my daughter transform into a confident reader. If anyone is thinking about trying this program, I can assure you it will be worth every penny. This program has been such a blessing to our family. Reading Allowed parent 1/1/22