If your child can tell you amazing stories out loud—but freezes the moment they have to write them down—you are not alone. Many families come to My Learning Farm feeling confused and worried, wondering why writing feels so hard. Dysgraphia is a learning difference that affects written expression.  It can show up in handwriting, spelling, sentence structure, organization, or the ability to get thoughts onto paper. Some kids struggle with letter formation and spacing. Others can write neatly, but their writing is short, disorganized, or exhausting. Here’s what I want you to know: 💛  Dysgraphia is not laziness. 💛  It is not a lack of intelligence. 💛  It is not a motivation problem. Writing requires many brain systems working at once—fine motor skills, memory, language, organization, and attention. When even one part is difficult, writing can feel overwhelming. At My Learning Farm , we support students by building writing skills in a structured, confidence-first way. We focus on making writing feel safe again—so kids can learn without fear of “getting it wrong.” If you’re wondering whether your child may have dysgraphia, I’d love to help you take the next step. You can learn more about academic support and assessments here: www.mylearningfarm.com At My Learning Farm, we meet students where they are and build confidence and skills together Trusted sources:  International Dyslexia Association (IDA), Understood.org

Parents often ask me, “What does writing support actually look like at My Learning Farm?” It looks like this: 💛 safe, supportive instruction 🌱 structured steps ✏️ real skill-building 🐐 and lots of encouragement (sometimes with farm animal breaks!) We focus on: ✔️ sentence building and expansion ✔️ organization and planning ✔️ spelling strategies that support writing ✔️ writing stamina (without burnout) ✔️ editing skills in a kind, doable way ✔️ tools like graphic organizers and checklists We don’t throw kids into “write a paragraph” and hope it works. We teach writing like a system—because for many struggling learners, it needs to be explicit. Most importantly, we protect confidence. Because kids learn best when they feel capable. If you want writing support that’s evidence-informed and heart-filled, you can explore options here: www.mylearningfarm.com Building writing skills at My Learning Farm looks like safety, comfort and of course, Stella! Trusted sources:  IDA, Understood.org

A lot of kids have messy handwriting. That doesn’t always mean dysgraphia. So how do you tell the difference? Messy handwriting might improve with: ✔️ practice ✔️ maturity ✔️ slower pacing ✔️ reminders to “write neatly” But with dysgraphia, the struggle is deeper. Writing may stay hard even when a child tries their best. A child with dysgraphia may: ✏️ write very slowly ✏️ avoid writing completely ✏️ struggle to copy accurately ✏️ forget how to form letters they “know” ✏️ produce writing that doesn’t match their spoken language ✏️ become frustrated or emotional quickly One of the most important things I tell families is this: When writing is difficult neurologically, more pressure doesn’t create progress—it creates burnout. At My Learning Farm , we use structured instruction and supportive strategies that help students write with less stress and more success. Want help figuring out what’s going on? Explore academic support and assessments here: www.mylearningfarm.com Trusted sources:   Understood.org , International Dyslexia Association (IDA)

At My Learning Farm , we believe strong literacy grows when students understand how words work , not just how they sound. Instead of relying on memorization, we teach students to investigate language through morphology and etymology . These tools help students unlock spelling, improve reading, and deepen comprehension. When children understand how words are built and where they come from , literacy begins to make sense. 🌱 What Is Morphology? Morphology is the study of the meaningful parts of words , called morphemes. These include: Bases (root words that carry meaning) Prefixes (added to the beginning) Suffixes (added to the end) For example: play → player → replay teach → teacher → teaching When students recognize these patterns, they can read and spell many new words because they understand the structure and meaning behind them . At My Learning Farm, we incorporate Structured Word Inquiry (SWI) and morphology-based learning to help students explore language like investigators. 🌻 What Is Etymology? Etymology is the study of where words come from and how they evolved over time . English draws from many languages including Latin, Greek, Old English, and French , which is why spelling sometimes reflects word history and meaning , not just sound. Understanding this history helps students make sense of spelling patterns that might otherwise seem confusing. Student-lead morphology, etymology spelling lesson at My Learning Farm 🐓 Investigating Words: The Example of Circle In the lesson pictured above, students explore the word circle through both morphology and etymology. The word comes from the Latin circulus , meaning ring . Over time it moved through languages: Latin → circulus Old French → circul English → circle Students then connect this base to related words: circle circular circumference For example, circumference can be broken into: circum = around ference = distance or carrying So the word literally means the distance around a circle . 🌾 Understanding the /er/ Sound English can spell the /er/ sound several ways: er (most common) – player, teacher or – corn ir – circle ur – turn ear – heard our – (least common) journey Instead of memorizing each spelling separately, students learn to think about word structure and meaning . For example, the suffix -er often means “one who.” play → player teach → teacher farm → farmer Once students recognize this pattern, spelling becomes much more logical. 🌻 Language Investigation at My Learning Farm At My Learning Farm, students explore language through: Morphology (how words are built) Etymology (where words come from) Word families and vocabulary connections Structured Word Inquiry investigations Rather than memorizing disconnected spelling lists, students learn to understand language . And when students understand words, reading becomes easier, spelling becomes clearer, and comprehension grows naturally. 🌻 Because at My Learning Farm , words are not just something to memorize — they are something to explore . If your child struggles with spelling, please reach out to My Learning Farm www.mylearningfarm.com

In our previous post, we explored two parts of the POSSUM framework used in the Science of Reading: • Phonology – the sounds in words • Orthography – how sounds connect to letters Today we’ll look at the next two pieces that help children move from decoding words to truly understanding what they read: Semantics and Syntax. Semantics: Understanding Word Meaning Semantics refers to the meaning of words . Many English words have multiple meanings , which can sometimes confuse young readers if they have not built strong vocabulary knowledge. Let’s return to our example word: bank . The word bank can mean several different things: • a place where money is kept• the edge of a river or lake• to rely on something (“You can bank on it.”)• a turning motion, like an airplane banking The meaning becomes clear when we look at the sentence. For example: We walked along the river bank. She deposited her paycheck at the bank. Same word.Different meaning. Strong readers use context clues and vocabulary knowledge to determine which meaning fits. Syntax: How Words Work Together in Sentences Syntax refers to how words are arranged in sentences . Word order helps readers understand meaning. Consider these two sentences: The children played near the river bank. The bank approved the loan. Even though the same word appears, the sentence structure tells the reader which meaning makes sense. Understanding syntax helps students: • read more fluently • understand complex sentences • write more clearly Building Comprehension Through Language When children develop strong skills in: • sound awareness • spelling patterns • vocabulary • sentence structure reading becomes more than just sounding out words. Students begin to understand what they read . At My Learning Farm , we support these skills through reading, writing, and conversation so students can connect words to real meaning. In our final post, we’ll explore the last part of the POSSUM framework: Morphology , and how understanding word parts expands vocabulary and reading confidence. At My Learning Farm we build reading skills using morphology, syntax and semantics to make learning meaningful. Please reach out to www.mylearningfarm.com to support your child's reading development.

Through this two-part series, we’ve been exploring the POSSUM framework , a helpful way to understand how language systems work together when children learn to read. So far we’ve covered: • Phonology – sounds in words • Orthography – spelling patterns • Semantics – word meanings • Syntax – sentence structure Today we’ll look at the final piece: Morphology. Morphology: Understanding Word Parts Morphology is the study of word parts and how they change meaning . Many English words grow by adding prefixes, suffixes, or combining words together . Let’s return one more time to our example word: bank From this base word we can build new words: banking banker banked riverbank For example: bank + er = banker A banker is someone who works at a bank. When students understand how words grow and change, they can unlock the meaning of unfamiliar words more easily. This skill is powerful for building vocabulary and comprehension . Why All Five Systems Matter When students develop skills across all five POSSUM areas, they build strong literacy foundations. They learn to: • hear sounds in words • connect sounds to letters • understand word meanings • recognize sentence structure• analyze word parts This deep word knowledge supports: 🌱 reading accuracy 🌱 spelling 🌱 vocabulary development 🌱 reading comprehension 🌱 confident writing How We Teach This at My Learning Farm At My Learning Farm , reading, spelling, and writing instruction are guided by the Science of Reading and taught using Orton-Gillingham structured literacy methods . Lessons are: • explicit • systematic • supportive • multisensory Students practice skills through reading activities, spelling instruction, and writing exercises so that language knowledge grows naturally over time. Our goal is always the same: 🌻 help children become confident readers 🌻 grow strong writers 🌻 nurture curiosity and a love of learning Because when children understand how words work, reading begins to feel possible—and even joyful.

Where Learning Grows, Confidence Builds, and Every Child Belongs At My Learning Farm, learning looks a little different—and that’s exactly the point. 💛 Nestled in the heart of Penryn, My Learning Farm is a place where students can slow down, feel safe, and truly grow. Whether your child is thriving, struggling, or somewhere in between, we meet them right where they are and build from there. Hi, I’m Ms. Sara 👋—founder of My Learning Farm, educator, and advocate for children who learn differently. I specialize in supporting students in reading, writing, spelling, and math using evidence-based programs like Orton-Gillingham Structured Literacy and Making Math Real . My goal is simple: help each child build skills and confidence in a way that feels positive and empowering. 🌾 How We Support Families: 1:1 Academic Support tailored to your child Specialized instruction for students with dyslexia and other learning differences Homeschool consultations and guidance Special Education (SPED) advocacy and support Academic assessments to better understand your child’s learning profile Hands-on Farm Classes in the Fall & Spring ✨ NEW! My Learning Farm READS! ✨One of the most special offerings at the farm, READS! is designed especially for reluctant or struggling readers . In this small-group class, Ms. Sara does the reading , allowing students to focus on comprehension, vocabulary, and the joy of story—without the pressure. It’s a beautiful bridge that helps children fall back in love with books. 💛📚 ☀️ Come See It for Yourself – Open Farm! We would love to welcome you to the farm! 📅 Friday, August 21 ⏰ 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM 🌿 Meet the animals, explore our learning spaces, and connect with Ms. Sara📖 Special READS! sneak peek at 12:00 PM ⚠️ RSVP required – space is limited and will close when full Whether you’re looking for academic support, a more connected homeschool experience, or a place where your child can feel seen and successful—My Learning Farm is here for you. 🌻 Learn more, explore programs, and RSVP here: www.mylearningfarm.com We can’t wait to welcome your family to the farm. 💛🌾

In My Learning Farm READS! , Ms. Sara does all of the reading aloud , so children can fully enjoy rich stories without pressure. This makes the class especially perfect for reluctant readers  or children who have had challenging reading experiences. This small-group class is designed for up to 12 students in grades 2–6  and meets for 12 two-hour classes on Tuesdays from 10:00–12:00 . Sessions are offered September–November and January–April  for the 2026–2027 school year . 👉  Register today: 🔗  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc-If3v-Zu5WoecK2iiGYoWrXhCjeHW0g-fLfMThP-chKCjmA/viewform 👉  Find out more : https://www.mylearningfarm.com/mylearningfarmreads

Summer brings a slower rhythm. The school-year rush quiets, schedules soften, and children often have the space they need to focus, breathe, and build confidence in their learning. My Learning Farm Summer Session is a GREAT time to jump into academics in a supportive 1:1 farm setting. At My Learning Farm , summer can be a powerful time to strengthen academic skills in a calm, encouraging environment. With fewer distractions and a gentle pace, students are able to focus deeply and make meaningful progress. Our 1:1 individualized summer sessions support students in building skills in: • Reading • Writing • Spelling • Math Instruction is personalized to each learner and uses evidence-based approaches, including Orton-Gillingham structured literacy and hands-on learning strategies that meet students where they are and help them move forward with confidence. Summer is also a wonderful time to close small learning gaps, strengthen foundational skills, and help students feel more prepared and confident heading into the next school year. 🌻 There is currently ONE summer session spot still available. If your child would benefit from supportive, individualized instruction in a peaceful farm setting, I would love to connect with your family. 📚 Register Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScOz0cqlqWZCetk5PjxbGzuixh6iNekL9B568MDIrM8ui-cZQ/viewform 🌱 Learn More About Summer Academic Support: https://www.mylearningfarm.com/summer At My Learning Farm, learning grows best when students feel supported, understood, and encouraged every step of the way. 🌻

At My Learning Farm , reading instruction is grounded in the Science of Reading (SOR) —a large body of research that explains how the brain learns to read. When children receive instruction that aligns with this research, they develop stronger decoding skills, better spelling, richer vocabulary, and deeper comprehension. One way to understand how reading works is through the POSSuM framework . This model highlights five important language systems that work together when we read and write. P – Phonology O – Orthography S – Semantics S – Syntax M – Morphology Each part plays a role in helping children move from sounding out words to truly understanding language . Let’s explore how these systems work together using a familiar word: bank . Phonology: Hearing the Sounds in Words Phonology refers to the sounds in spoken language . Before a child can read a word on a page, they must first be able to hear and recognize the individual sounds inside that word. Take the word bank . The sounds we hear are: /b/ – /ă/ – /ng/ – /k/ Even though the letters n and k appear together, our ears hear the nasal /ng/ sound before the final /k/ . When children practice phonology, they learn to: • break words into sounds • blend sounds together • identify beginning, middle, and ending sounds • notice rhyming patterns For example, words that rhyme with bank include: tank sank rank thank plank These sound patterns help children build the foundation for reading. Orthography: How Sounds Become Letters Orthography refers to the spelling system of language —how sounds connect to letters on the page. In the word bank , we see the spelling pattern: b + a + nk Students learn that nk is a common spelling pattern in English where the nasal /ng/ sound is followed by k . Many words share this pattern: bank tank sank think trunk When students understand spelling patterns, reading and spelling begin to support each other. How This Shows Up at My Learning Farm At My Learning Farm , students learn these skills through Orton-Gillingham structured literacy instruction , an evidence-based approach aligned with the Science of Reading. During reading and spelling lessons, students practice: 🌻 hearing sounds 🌻 mapping sounds to letters 🌻 recognizing spelling patterns 🌻 building words step by step These foundational skills help students become accurate and confident readers . In our next post, we’ll explore how understanding word meaning and sentence structure strengthens reading comprehension.

My Learning Farm READS! classes take place in our NEW greenhouse Many children love stories but feel overwhelmed by reading. In READS!, Ms. Sara does all of the reading , allowing students to focus on comprehension, vocabulary, and enjoyment—making this class ideal for reluctant readers . This class is limited to 12 students, grades 2–6 , meeting Tuesdays from 10–12  for 12 sessions  in Fall and Spring 2026–27 . 👉  Learn more and register today: 🔗  https://www.mylearningfarm.com/math

Building Confidence, safety, support, success are what we do here at My Learning Farm Some kids stop trying in writing not because they don’t care—but because they care too much. They’ve been corrected so many times that writing feels like failure waiting to happen. That’s why confidence-first writing instruction matters. At My Learning Farm, we focus on: 🌱 progress over perfection 🌱 small wins every session 🌱 teaching the “how,” not just assigning the “what” 🌱 celebrating effort and growth 🌱 helping students feel proud again When a student believes they can write, everything changes: ✔️ they take risks ✔️ they write more ✔️ they improve faster ✔️ they stop avoiding If writing has become a confidence battle in your home, you are not alone—and your child is not broken. They simply need a different approach. You can learn more about writing support at My Learning Farm  here: www.mylearningfarm.com Trusted sources:  Child Mind Institute, Understood.org