NUCASLL Literacy Support Program: Back-to-School Reading Prep
A small-group program led by speech-language professionals for young and emerging readers.
Led by a speech-language pathologist and learning disabilities specialist alongside graduate student clinicians, this small-group camp targets foundational literacy skills such as phonemic awareness & phonics, comprehension strategies, morphosyntax, and vocabulary development to help young children grow as readers and support families with practical, at-home resources.
Daily Schedule
There will be a new storybook every day. We will focus on four areas of speech, language, and literacy: phonemic awareness and phonics, comprehension strategies, morphosyntax, and vocabulary development. Children will rotate throughout four learning stations that cover each area of speech, language, and literacy. All stations will be child-centered and play-based.
Each day, parents will receive a take-home resource to support literacy at home. At the end of the week, families will also receive a brief summary of their child’s progress across the four focus areas: phonemic awareness and phonics, morphosyntax, vocabulary, and comprehension strategies.
Each session is limited in size to ensure maximum support for each child.
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When:
Session 1: August 4-8, 2025
Session 2: August 11-15, 2025
Both sessions run from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Where:
NUCASLL, 2315 Campus Drive
Evanston, IL 60208
Cost:
$200
Contact / Register:
Email E. Debbie Lee at e.debbielee@northwestern.edu with questions.
Complete the registration form here.
About the Program Leader
E. Debbie Lee
Debbie Lee is a pediatric speech-language pathologist and learning disabilities specialist. She has extensive experience in public and private schools and in home-based private practice. Debbie’s primary areas of interest include speech, language, and learning in preschool and school-aged children and the role of schools in providing excellent, equitable support for all children. In addition, Debbie is passionate about the importance of school-based speech-language pathologists as agents of change in schools.
SLPD, Speech-Language Pathology Clinical Doctorate, Northwestern University
MA, Speech-Language Pathology, Northwestern University
MA, Learning Disabilities, Northwestern University
BS, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University
Resources
Why Reading by the End of Third Grade Matters
An overview of why early reading success is key to lifelong learning (Annie E. Casey Foundation)
How Do I Know If My Child Needs Help with Reading?
A guide for parents on early signs that a child may benefit from extra support (Reading Rockets)
FAQ
Who is this program for?
This program is designed for children entering kindergarten through fifth grade who may benefit from extra support with foundational reading skills. Whether your child is just beginning to explore letters and sounds or has had some early challenges with reading, this program is designed to build confidence in a fun, supportive setting.
Does my child need a diagnosis or referral to attend?
No referral is needed. This program is open to all families who feel their child could benefit from structured literacy support. Children do not need to have a formal diagnosis or be receiving speech-language services.
What skills will be addressed?
- Activities will focus on the skills that bridge speech, language, and literacy:
- Phonemic awareness (hearing and playing with sounds in words) and phonics
- Morphosyntax – how words and sentences are built
- Vocabulary development
- Comprehension strategies
All activities are play-based and designed to be engaging and age-appropriate.
What are the program dates and times?
Two sessions are available:
August 4–8, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
August 11–15, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where does the program take place?
The program is held at the Northwestern University Center for Audiology, Speech, Language, and Learning (NUCASLL), located at 2315 Campus Drive in Evanston.
Will parents stay with their child during the session?
This is a drop-off program, though we understand this may be a new experience for some children. Our team is experienced in supporting young learners and will ensure each child feels safe, welcome, and encouraged. If your child needs time adjusting to a group setting, we will work with you to make the transition as smooth as possible.
How many children are in each session?
Each session is limited to ten children to allow for small-group and one-on-one support. Children will work closely with a graduate student clinician, supervised by a speech-language pathologist and learning disabilities specialist.
Are snacks provided?
No snacks are provided during the sessions. If your child has specific dietary needs or you prefer, please feel free to send a labeled snack and water bottle with them. We recommend avoiding any foods that might cause allergies or choking hazards.
What safety measures are in place?
The program is held in a secure facility at NUCASLL, staffed by licensed professionals and supervised graduate clinicians. All staff have undergone background checks and training in child safety protocols. Children will be closely supervised at all times during sessions.
What if my child has special needs or medical conditions?
Please let us know about any specific needs or accommodations your child may require during registration. We will do our best to ensure a safe, supportive environment.
How do you handle emergencies?
The facility has established emergency procedures, and staff are trained in first aid and CPR. Parents/guardians will be contacted immediately in case of any emergency or health concerns.
How much does it cost?
Each week-long program is $200.
How do I register?
To register, please complete the registration form. After your form is reviewed, we will contact you to confirm your spot and arrange payment. https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=YdN2fXeCCEekd2ToNmzRvLkLGEtWrjxJozCqMDDlKe5UMERGMVY3NlRFS0tBSFQyTExPUkxCWFdUOC4u&origin=QRCode&qrcodeorigin=presentation&route=shorturl
What is the cancellation policy?
This program is nonrefundable except in cases of emergency or illness. A minimum number of participants is required to run each session; if a session is canceled due to low enrollment, families will be notified in advance and fully refunded.
What if my child has to miss a day?
We understand that children may occasionally miss a day due to illness, family emergencies, or other reasons. While we encourage consistent attendance to maximize the benefits of the program, we are flexible and will work with families as needed.
If your child is unable to attend a day due to illness (including contagious illnesses like COVID-19), please notify us as soon as possible to ensure the safety of all participants. Unfortunately, we are not able to provide make-up sessions for missed days, but children are welcome to return for the remaining days of the session once they are well.
Who can I contact with questions?
Please reach out to Dr. E. Debbie Lee at e.debbielee@northwestern.edu.