Brooklyn Letters IconBrooklyn Letters

1139 Prospect Avenue, Brooklyn

4.9 56 reviews

  • Avatar Emily Matles ★★★★★ a week ago
    We would highly recommend Ally! Our son always asks about her, so very thankful to Brooklyn Letters for introducing us.
    ~ Emily, mom of Brooklyn 2 year old
  • Avatar Natalie Levon ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Nicole has been an amazing therapist!! She played a tremendous role in our daughter’s speech progress and overall development. She has come such a long way and we are so happy with the therapy she received!
  • Avatar T Ainsley ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    I cannot express how grateful and rewarding my experience with Brooklyn Letters has been. Her tutor Ms. Daria is so knowledgeable, amazing, kind and awesome. My daughter has made so much progress in Literacy and Math and it's all … More thanks to Ms. Daria. I know my daughter is sad that she can no longer work with Ms. Daria, as she looked forward to their sessions every week. Thank you again!
  • Avatar Jackie Vasquez ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Excellent services, caring therapists.
  • Avatar Lil Amatore ★★★★★ 8 months ago
    Christina was absolutely wonderful. She went out of her way to win my son over and it worked. He looked forward to her visits and his speech improved so much under her care. She was super flexible and it’s clear she truly cares. We adore … More Christina and we’re going to miss her. Almost sad he improved so much! She’s simply amazing and we can’t say enough how great she is. I would recommend her services to anyone and everyone, without hesitation. Thank you so much for connecting us with her!
  • Avatar Colin Peters ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    We could not be happier with the services Valerie provided! She is very thoughtful and knowledgeable and provided significant guidance to support our daughter's speech development outside of our scheduled sessions. She established … More a great working relationship with her, and she will definitely be missed! Your business model is amazing and it was an absolute pleasure working with Valerie. I've referred your organization and Valerie to the Executive Director of our daughter's school and friends/colleagues who are in need of speech therapy services.
  • Avatar Heather Liljengren ★★★★★ a year ago
    We cannot say enough good things about Effie, the ASL teacher, who was so engaged and effective with our 2 year old daughter from the very first session! Effie gladly included our whole family in the sessions! Her expertise and fantastic … More personality gave our daughter a way to communicate that she was so desperately seeking. The coordinators at Brooklyn Letters were so helpful and communicative…I would highly recommend their services!
  • Avatar Chris duke Fields ★★★★★ a month ago
    The company is great with outstanding customer service. They keep my horses protected. I have recommended them to other horses trainers as well that are going to get service early next year. Very professional an honest too. Respectfully … More submitted Christopher
  • Avatar Nikhil Jaisinghani ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Ron and Ken did a fantastic job with our security system today. Installed everything very quick. Both of them were very polite and asked us throughout if the installation met our needs. Simply fantastic!
  • Avatar Linda Parsley ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    I called Cornerstone Protection to get a Security system at a relatives out of state property, within a week it was installed! The installers worked with the client to help understand her new system and she was happy! Our relative said … More they were courteous, professional and patient! I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection for all of your security needs!
  • Avatar Amanda Clay Mackin ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Had blink cameras; Car was broken into multiple times so I called CornerStone & they were able to install multiple cameras very quickly & for a reasonable price. I am so happy with the app & getting alerts that are not superfluous, … More like they were with Blink. Highly recommend CornerStone & the tech Ronnie.
  • Avatar Pete Peters ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Ron and Ken are great guys to work with.
    Both were very knowledgeable and got our system back up and running.
    Thanks to both for a job well done...
  • Avatar Brigid Bower ★★★★★ 11 months ago
    Samantha Dalmas was fantastic! We saw her for a feeding therapy evaluation and while she doesn’t think my daughter needs more feeding therapy sessions at this time, but she gave me lots of tips to try. If my daughter's doctors want … More to see more progress at her next appointment, I wouldn’t hesitate to reach out to Samantha again.
  • Avatar Larry Barton ★★★★★ a year ago
    Amazing assistance provided by Shannon today on my security system. I’m so grateful for your prompt, efficient, professional, and courteous service. Put me down as a customer for life!
  • Avatar Megan Haller ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    One of the most painless experiences I've had. They came on time and was over the moon professional with still keeping a level of personability to it. The gentleman also went out of his way to say that my husband and Mines business … More was appreciated. Which is actually rare to be appreciated by such a great company. So thank you and we look forward to continuing services with this company.
  • Avatar Megan Magsam ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I am so happy we decided to go with cornerstone. They were quick and efficient. Shannon and the installer we very friendly. We got a lot of equipment and it was still within our budget. 10/10 would definitely recommend! Thank you
  • Avatar Collins Youngblood ★★★★★ a year ago
    Love the customer service and Shanon and his team go above and beyond for my restaurant. Couldn't of asked for a better security system and level of service that his team provides.
  • Avatar kanu patel ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I have been using Cornerstone Protection service for over 5 years and I'm really happy with the service and state-of-the-art equipments and it's futures are so much in advance and friendly, I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection … More Service any and all business that need a security protection days and nights specially after business hours(Cornerstone Protection is perfect solution for your business). Owner of Cornerstone Protection is proactive with their customers and their equipments. Good experienced with Cornerstone Protection!!!
    Kanu Patel
  • Avatar Liz Jones ★★★★ 2 years ago
    We had a very positive experience with Alissa as a tutor for our pod of 5th grade boys from January - June 2020. She cared a lot about the boys and worked hard to create meaningful activities for them. The pod experience was invaluable … More for all of our families during a difficult year and we were so grateful to have found this partnership! We also want to appreciate Craig for helping to match us with a tutor on very short notice after we had cycled through a few folks who were not able to see the commitment through. Thanks for sticking with us!
  • Avatar S CL ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Dusty was the exact person we needed to help our child finish out the school year. So grateful to him for the way he steadily encouraged her and helped her stay on track and organized. He is flexible, responsive to our needs/schedule as … More a family, and a delight to be with. We are also thankful that Craig at Themba Tutors really "gets it" and partnered us with such a wonderful tutor who was a great fit for our girl.
  • Avatar Nicole May ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    My child worked with Gillian D virtually for math enrichment. She is an excellent teacher. She took time to understand my child's specific learning style and provided tools that would be engaging. She was kind and empathetic- really … More made it her goal to connect with my child and build trust and rapport. My child started the school year with confidence and without the typically "brain-drain" that occurs over the summer, thanks to Gillian.
  • Avatar Gillian Davidoff ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    I am going into my second year as a Themba tutor. I have met so many great individuals while working for this company. Craig and the rest of the Themba team do such an excellent job picking and choosing Themba tutors that suit each client's … More individual needs! I look forward to meeting new tutors and clients in the 2021-2022 school year!
  • Avatar carolina luttmann ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Our son started in a new high school, 100% remote, and was really struggling with Latin and Physics. I found Themba Tudors online and had an initial call with Craig, who was very knowledgeable, responsive, and found 2 amazing tutors for … More us. Both the Latin and the physics tutors were fantastic, connected with my son really well and helped him go from 'failing' grade to 'honors'! I will for sure continue using (and recommending!) Themba Tutors. Thank you, C, K, and W!
  • Avatar Eric Fingerman ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Brian is a fantastic executive functioning coach. Super helpful, flexible with hours, and tailored the experience to our needs.
  • Avatar Susan Wong ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Giulia Mercuri is a great Italian tutor! She was very responsive and accessible. Giulia put a ton of effort into preparing for each session and really helped our son with test preparation and projects. We are grateful that she was able … More to help, especially since our son did not receive any live teaching during COVID. We are happy that she was referred to us!
  • Avatar Christine Gennetti ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    As an adult student diagnosed with a learning disability during grad school, I knew I needed help dealing with my Master's program's demanding workload. I was seriously considering dropping out when I was referred to Themba Tutors. … More I was paired up with a wonderful tutor, Julie, who was a total lifesaver. I learned many techniques that I can utilize in the future as I embark on the next phase of my career.
    I can wholeheartedly say after working with Themba for two years that I would not have finished my program without this organization. And I am so thankful I selected them.
  • Avatar Fabiola FITZPATRICK ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    We were introduced to a wonderful tutor: Mcedwyn. He and our son, a freshman in college, worked well together. As a result, our son’s grades significantly improved. The tutor taught our son subject content and various methods to effectively … More study for quizzes and exams. Our son was also taught time management and organization. My son’s experience with the tutor made the first year of college a less intimidating experience.
  • Avatar Jude Eugene ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    We have been with our tutor, Cailin Schiller, for two years, from 5th - 7th grade. She started as an executive functioning tutor with my daughter. From the start, she demonstrated a depth of expertise and a selective use of techniques skillfully … More adapted to my daughter’s ADHD and Math disability. Cailin made Math accessible and understandable to her in a way that even her teachers had not been able to do. She differentiated reading, writing and math tasks and assignments to tailor them to my daughter’s unique learning differences. Not only did it have an effect on her grades and her work efficiency, but she finally could do her work with less anxiety. Even my daughter’s teachers used Cailin’s guidance to modify their work with her. But most importantly, she became my daughter’s favorite resource. I can’t say how invaluable Cailin has been to my daughter’s progress and well-being. I’d recommend her a million times over. She is a gem.
  • Avatar Janice Eidus ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Victoria is a superb tutor. She helped my high school age daughter with her writing. Victoria's skills as a tutor, as well as her sense of humor and her engaging personality went a long way with my daughter.
  • A Google User ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
  • Avatar Fara Jones ★★★★★ 5 years ago
    Themba Tutors provided a leaning specialist that was a perfect fit for my daughter. I told them what we were looking for and they delivered. Our tutor is responsive and flexible and makes it easy for my daughter to reach out to her own … More her own, which gives her an added sense of responsibility over her learning. As a therapist myself, I now regularly recommend Themba to my patients. A much needed and well provided service to the community!!
  • Avatar Frances Simpson ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
  • Avatar Mary Jean Babic ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
  • Avatar Nina Herman ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    We had a wonderful experience with our tutor Micaela. She helped our son not only academically but at every level. We will be forever grateful to have her in our lives.
  • Avatar Frances ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
  • Avatar Michael Birnbaum ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Paul Smith at Themba has been an exceptional tutor for my son, both in terms of teaching the subject matter and teaching how best to approach the process of learning math and executing assignments. We feel very fortunate to be working with … More Paul.
  • Avatar Monica Alzate ★★★★★ 5 years ago
    We were very lucky to have found Edwouine Swift, my son's therapist through Themba Tutors. Thomas is 12 years old, and it is extremely difficult to get him to write. Edwouine just works her magic with him, he adores her and is so … More eager to follow her guidance. I have no doubt she will be a positive driving force in his academic future.

Finding the Best Tutor or Learning Specialist for a Student With a Learning Difference

Finding the Best Tutor or Learning Specialist for a Student With a Learning Difference

When a student is navigating the challenges of a learning difference, finding the right educational support becomes not just important—it becomes essential. At Themba Tutors, we believe every student deserves compassionate, personalized instruction tailored to their unique strengths and needs. This comprehensive guide is designed to help families find the best tutor or learning specialist for a student with a learning difference—and understand why our learning specialists at Themba Tutors are the ideal choice.

Understanding Learning Differences

Before you begin the search for a tutor or learning specialist, it’s crucial to understand what learning differences are and how they affect a student’s educational journey.

Learning differences is an inclusive term that refers to neurologically based variations in how individuals receive, process, organize, or express information. Learning disabilities are formally diagnosed conditions that fall under this broader category and may qualify a student for academic accommodations or specialized support.

Common learning differences and learning disabilities include:

  • Dyslexia – challenges with reading and language processing
  • Dysgraphia – difficulty with handwriting, spelling, written expression, and organizing thoughts on paper
  • ADHD – difficulties with attention, focus, and impulsivity
  • Executive Function Disorder – issues with planning, organizing, and managing time
  • Dyscalculia – difficulty understanding math concepts
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – varying impacts on communication, behavior, and social skills
  • Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD) – difficulties with visual-spatial reasoning, math, organization, and social cues, despite strong verbal skills
  • Twice-Exceptional (2e) – students who are intellectually gifted but also have one or more learning differences, often showing uneven skill development

These differences are not a reflection of intelligence or capability. They simply mean a student’s brain learns differently, and that they may benefit from individualized instruction and targeted strategies.

Why the Right Tutor or Learning Specialist Matters

Why the Right Tutor or Learning Specialist Matters

A skilled tutor or learning specialist provides more than academic instruction—they empower students with the tools to learn independently, build confidence, and advocate for themselves. The wrong fit, however, can lead to further frustration, low self-esteem, and academic disengagement.

A well-matched specialist can help your child:

  • Overcome learning blocks with the right strategies
  • Build confidence through achievable goals
  • Improve organization, time management, and test performance
  • Develop a love of learning

Ultimately, choosing the right professional can change the course of a child’s educational experience for the better.

What to Look for in a Tutor or Learning Specialist

When selecting a tutor or learning specialist for a child with a learning difference, it’s important to consider more than just academic credentials. The right professional should align with your child’s specific learning profile, needs, and emotional temperament. Here are five essential qualities to look for during your search:

1. Specialized Expertise in Learning Differences

Not all tutors have the training required to effectively support students with learning differences. A qualified learning specialist will have:

  • Background in special education, psychology, speech-language pathology, or a related field
  • Experience with IEPs, 504 Plans, and evidence-based interventions
  • Familiarity with specific diagnoses such as dyslexia, ADHD, or autism

Ask questions like:

  • What specific training or certifications do you have related to [child’s diagnosis]?
  • Can you describe your experience working with similar students?
  • What methods do you use, and how do you measure success?

2. Personalized and Flexible Instruction

Students with learning differences need individualized instruction. The best specialists tailor their approach based on a student’s:

  • Learning style
  • Strengths and challenges
  • Interests and goals
  • Progress over time

They should be willing to adjust strategies frequently to ensure ongoing success.

3. Strong Communication Skills

A collaborative relationship between the tutor, family, and school is key. The right specialist will:

  • Provide regular updates
  • Encourage parent involvement
  • Attend meetings and communicate with school staff (if requested)
  • Offer clear insight into your child’s development

Effective communication ensures that all parties are aligned in supporting the student’s progress.

4. Empathy, Patience, and Rapport-Building

Students with learning differences often struggle with motivation or self-esteem. Your tutor should be:

  • Emotionally supportive and encouraging
  • Patient and understanding of setback
  • Skilled at building rapport to foster trust and engagement

These qualities help create a safe, positive learning environment.

5. Use of Evidence-Based Approaches

The best specialists implement research-backed methods tailored to the student’s needs:

  • Orton-Gillingham or Wilson Reading for dyslexia
  • Executive Function Coaching for ADHD and planning issues
  • Cognitive Behavioral Strategies for anxiety and school refusal

Visual aids, social stories, and sensory supports for ASD

Choosing a tutor who uses proven techniques ensures your child receives effective, targeted support.

In summary, a tutor or learning specialist with these five qualities can make a meaningful difference in both academic performance and overall well-being.

How to Start the Search

What to Look for in a Tutor or Learning Specialist

Finding the right tutor or learning specialist may feel overwhelming at first, but breaking the process into clear steps can simplify the journey. Here’s a practical guide to get started:

1. Clarify Your Child’s Needs

Review evaluations, IEPs, 504 Plans, or professional recommendations. Identify key challenges, academic goals, and emotional needs.

2. Define Clear Goals

Are you seeking help with reading comprehension, math, organization, or test preparation? Clear objectives will help you find a better match.

3. Interview Several Candidates

Prepare questions and gauge how comfortable your child feels with each tutor or specialist. Look for alignment in personality, style, and experience.

4. Check References and Testimonials

Speak with other parents or educators, and review online reviews to understand a provider’s reputation and track record.

By following these four steps, you can feel confident that you’re making an informed decision about the right support for your child.

Why Choose a Themba Tutors Learning Specialist?

At Themba Tutors, we understand that every learner is unique. Our learning specialists are carefully selected for their advanced training, empathy, and proven ability to help students with learning differences succeed. Here’s what makes our team the right choice for your family:

✅ Highly Trained Experts

Our team is composed of highly trained specialists certified in evidence-based approaches, including Orton-Gillingham, the Wilson Reading System, executive function coaching, social-emotional learning techniques, multisensory math and literacy instruction, and language development and speech therapy. These advanced certifications allow us to deliver targeted, effective interventions that go beyond surface-level tutoring and create meaningful, lasting progress for students.

✅ Whole-Child, Customized Approach

We don’t just teach—we support students’ emotional, social, and academic growth. Our specialists design individualized plans that build academic mastery while strengthening time management and study skills, emotional regulation and resilience, motivation and independence, and communication and self-advocacy. We believe true learning success comes from developing both essential skills and lasting confidence.

✅ Collaborative and Transparent

We work closely with families, teachers, and therapists to provide regular progress updates, meaningful support for IEP meetings, and holistic strategies that strengthen learning both at home and at school. Through consistent collaboration and open communication, everyone stays informed, aligned, and invested in your child’s long-term success.

✅ Flexible Scheduling and Locations

We offer in-person, online, and hybrid services tailored to your schedule. Our team works with students from elementary school through college—and even adults.

Whether your child needs ongoing support or short-term intervention, we offer flexible solutions that fit your lifestyle.

✅ Support for a Wide Range of Learning Differences

Our learning specialists have extensive experience supporting students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD and executive functioning challenges, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and language-based learning disabilities, as well as students navigating anxiety, depression, or school refusal. We also work closely with gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) learners. No matter the challenge, we have a specialist who understands your child’s needs and knows how to help them thrive.

Real Results That Matter

Red Flags to Avoid When Choosing a Tutor

Parents and students consistently report increased academic performance, stronger organization and time management skills, reduced stress and anxiety, greater confidence and independence, and positive feedback from schools and therapists. Our ultimate goal is to empower students not just to catch up—but to truly excel.

Red Flags to Avoid When Choosing a Tutor

While many tutors may seem qualified, not all are equipped to support students with learning differences effectively. Be cautious if you notice any of the following signs:

  • Lack of experience with learning differences
  • Overpromising fast results
  • Inflexible teaching styles
  • Limited feedback or communication
  • No familiarity with IEPs or school collaboration

Avoiding these red flags can save time, money, and emotional energy—and lead you to a better fit for your child.

Final Thoughts: Invest in the Right Support

Finding the right learning specialist isn’t just about grades—it’s about empowering your child to thrive. The right professional will not only address academic challenges but also boost your child’s self-esteem, independence, and emotional well-being.

At Themba Tutors, we are committed to finding the perfect match for your child—someone who understands their learning profile, connects with them personally, and tailors instruction to help them succeed. We provide in-home and remote support throughout NYC, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island, as well as Long Island, Westchester, New Jersey, Connecticut, and the Boston area. Whether you’re just starting your journey or seeking a better solution, we’re here to help.

Let’s Find the Right Specialist for Your Child

Ready to take the next step? Connect with a Themba Tutors Learning Specialist today and give your child the tools, support, and confidence to thrive.

Not ready to fill out the form yet? We’re here to make this easy.

📞 (917) 382-8641 | 📲 (917) 382-8641 | ✉ [email protected]


Every coach offers a free 15-minute remote meet-and-greet, so you can get to know them and see if it feels like the right fit. We’re very responsive and easy to communicate with throughout the process. From there, we’ll thoughtfully match you with one or more of our coaches.