Inclusion Starts With Literacy: Eye Reading and Ear Reading with Daniela Feldhausen
Updated: Aug 12
In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Daniela Feldhausen, founder of Kids Up Reading Tutors, to explore the connection between literacy and inclusion.
Daniela shares her inspiring journey from lawyer to reading advocate and offers deep insights into dyslexia, dysgraphia, and the science of reading. She explains how inclusive literacy starts with access to the written word—whether through “eye reading” or “ear reading”—and highlights practical strategies for supporting struggling readers at home and in schools.
This powerful conversation is a must-listen for parents, educators, and advocates passionate about equitable education.
Key Takeaways:
Access to Literacy – Inclusion means everyone having access to the written word, through eye or ear reading.
Understanding Dyslexia – Dyslexia is not a visual issue, but a phonological processing difference that impacts reading and spelling.
Science of Reading – Structured, evidence-based programs like Orton-Gillingham and Kilpatrick are key to effective instruction.
IEPs & Support – IEPs can help, but most students need more intensive, individualized instruction outside school to truly catch up.
Technology for Inclusion – Tools like text-to-speech, speech-to-text, and Google Lens can promote everyday reading access and independence.
Daniela’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is making sure that everybody has access to the written word.
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About the Author
Daniela Feldhausen is the founder of Kids Up Reading Tutors. A former attorney with a master’s degree in special education, she has extensive training in Structured Literacy, the Science of Reading, and Orton-Gillingham–based instruction. Her team evaluates each student’s reading and spelling skills, creates an individualized Structured Literacy Plan, and provides the one-on-one tutoring needed to carry it out.
What sets Kids Up Reading Tutors apart?
Evaluation and Structured Literacy Plan
Evidence-based instruction with Orton-Gillingham+
Data-driven systematic, explicit instruction
For all learners, with or without dyslexia/dysgraphia
Kids & teens in grades 1-12 get caught up ASAP
Customized, 1-on-1 sessions with a dedicated tutor
High-dosage tutoring (2-5x/week) via Zoom
Focused, with an end in sight (not endless tutoring & investment)
Flexible scheduling
45/60 minute sessions
Daytime/evenings/weekends/summer
Team of tutors; switch tutors if needed for schedule changes
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