Learn Your Way Literacy provides evidence-based online literacy instruction for creative, neurodivergent kids. Meet our specialists, methods, and mission.
From 15+ years in education to building a program that actually works for neurodivergent learners
Katherine Williams, Founder & Lead Literacy Specialist
Katherine Williams spent 17 years watching bright, creative kids be failed by one-size-fits-all instruction, and decided to build something better.
A structured literacy specialist and multilingual educator, Katherine holds a Master's in Theological Ethics from the University of Aberdeen, a BA in Theatre Arts, and TEFL certification, and is fluent in five languages, which gives her a multilingual ear for how kids actually learn to read. She's also a trained mezzo-soprano, with the phonological-sound discipline that comes with it.
She founded Learn Your Way Literacy after working with 400+ neurodivergent learners as a private tutor and building curriculum for major ed-tech platforms. Trained over the years in the structured-literacy systems used across the field, Katherine built the LYWL approach around a belief she has carried throughout her career: every brain learns differently, and that's not a deficit, it's a design feature.
When students finally understand how they learn, everything changes. LYWL exists to make that moment happen, every time.
Katherine Williams Founder & Lead Literacy Specialist
Every brain learns differently — and that's not a deficit, it's a design feature
Different isn't broken. Different is just... different. Neurodivergent brains are wired uniquely, and when teaching adapts to work with that wiring instead of against it, learning happens naturally.
Students don't need to change — teaching does
We don't try to make students fit into rigid curricula or teaching methods. Instead, we adapt our approach to fit each student's learning style, pace, and needs. This is the heart of personalized education.
Meta-learning is as important as content learning
Understanding how you learn is a superpower. When students can recognize what strategies work for their brain, they become independent learners who can apply those strategies to any challenge — not just reading.
Evidence-based methods work — when they're personalized
The Science of Reading and structured literacy approaches are proven to work for neurodivergent learners. But, in our experience, they must be adapted to each student's pace, delivered with patience, and made engaging.
Reading and writing should bring joy, not just grades
Literacy isn't just about test scores or reading levels. It's about accessing stories, expressing ideas, and connecting with the world. When students find joy in reading and writing, everything else follows.
Small groups create the perfect balance
One-on-one attention without isolation. Peer learning without overwhelm. Our small groups (4-6 students) provide personalized instruction while building community with students who understand each other's challenges.
Evidence-based approaches adapted for neurodivergent learners
Science of Reading
Our foundation is the Science of Reading — decades of research on how brains learn to read. We focus on the five essential components: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
This research-backed approach ensures we're teaching what actually works, not trendy methods that lack evidence.
Structured Literacy
We use structured literacy techniques — the gold standard for teaching students with dyslexia. Our instruction is:
Systematic: Skills taught in a logical, sequential order
Explicit: Nothing is assumed; everything is clearly taught
Multisensory: Engaging visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile pathways
Cumulative: Each lesson builds on previous learning
Diagnostic: Responsive to each student's needs
Our methods draw heavily on proven Science of Reading approaches and adapt them for small group online instruction.
Meta-Learning Framework
This is our unique addition: teaching students to understand how they learn. Through reflection, discussion, and experimentation, students discover:
What strategies work for their brain (visual aids? movement? talking it out?)
Why certain tasks feel hard or easy
How to advocate for what they need
When to use different learning strategies
Meta-learning builds confidence, independence, and lifelong learning skills that extend far beyond literacy.
Creative Writing Integration
We believe literacy should be joyful, not just functional. By integrating creative writing, storytelling, and self-expression into every program, we:
Make learning personally meaningful
Build motivation through imagination
Practice grammar and mechanics in engaging contexts
Specialized strategies for each type of neurodivergence
For Students with Dyslexia
Students with dyslexia need systematic, multisensory instruction at a pace that allows true mastery. Our approach includes:
Structured literacy techniques
Multisensory activities in every lesson (seeing, saying, tracing, moving)
Slower pacing with extensive review and practice
No guessing - explicit, clear instruction
Decodable texts matched to current skill level
Spaced repetition built into curriculum
Teaching students about dyslexia so they understand how their brain works
Our Dyslexia-Specific Reading course is designed exclusively for students with severe reading struggles, while all our courses accommodate dyslexic learners.
For Students with ADHD
Students with ADHD need engagement, movement, and clear structure. Our approach includes:
You might wonder: Can online learning really work for neurodivergent students?
Yes. When it's done right.
Many families had negative experiences with online learning during the pandemic: huge class sizes, passive instruction, no accommodations for different learning styles. That's not what we do.
Our Online Classes Are Different
Small groups (4-6 students, not 25-30)
Highly interactive (games, activities, movement—not just watching)
Multisensory instruction (seeing, saying, tracing, moving—even through a screen)
Built-in breaks and flexibility
Experienced online instructors who know how to engage students virtually
Benefits of Online Learning
Learn from home in a comfortable, familiar environment
No commute time (more energy for learning)
Serves families nationwide (not limited by geography)
Flexible scheduling options
One-on-one support available without extra travel
Access to our best instructors regardless of location
Research shows that online instruction can be just as effective as in-person when it's interactive, well-designed, and taught by skilled instructors. We've seen it work for hundreds of students.
We're not a general tutoring service that "also works with" neurodivergent students. We specialize exclusively in students with learning differences. This is our expertise, not an afterthought.
Evidence-Based Innovation
We combine proven research (Science of Reading) with innovative approaches (meta-learning framework, creative integration). Tradition meets innovation for powerful results.
Whole-Child Focus
We don't just teach reading skills—we build confidence, self-awareness, and joy in learning. We see the whole child, not just their reading level.
Every student progresses at their own pace. Most families notice increased confidence and engagement within the first few weeks. Measurable reading gains typically appear within 3-6 months of consistent instruction. We focus on sustainable, lasting progress rather than quick fixes.
What makes your approach different from school interventions?
Our small groups (4-6 students) allow for true personalization that's impossible in larger classroom settings. We specialize exclusively in neurodivergent learners, using evidence-based methods adapted specifically for different learning profiles. Plus, our meta-learning framework teaches students how they learn best—a skill they'll use for life.
Do you work with students who have multiple diagnoses?
Absolutely. Many of our students have co-occurring conditions (like dyslexia and ADHD, or autism and dysgraphia). Our personalized approach allows us to adapt instruction to meet each student's unique combination of needs and strengths.
What technology do students need for online classes?
Students need a computer or tablet with a webcam, microphone, and stable internet connection. We use Zoom for live classes and provide access to our online learning platform. We'll walk you through the technical setup during your discovery call.
Every student's journey is unique. Let's talk about your child's specific needs, challenges, and goals—and explore how Learn Your Way Literacy can help.
What to expect in your free discovery call:
Discussion of your child's learning profile and challenges
Overview of our approach and methodology
Answers to all your questions
Honest assessment of whether we're a good match
Next steps if you decide to move forward
No sales pressure. No obligation. Just a genuine conversation about how we can support your family.