Lindamood-Bell is a research-based educational intervention company offering specialized programs that develop the sensory-cognitive skills underlying reading, comprehension, and math—particularly effective for students with dyslexia and learning differences.
What is Lindamood-Bell?
Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes is an educational intervention company founded in 1986 by Patricia Lindamood (speech-language pathologist) and Nanci Bell (literacy specialist). Unlike traditional tutoring that focuses on content, Lindamood-Bell programs target the underlying cognitive processes that enable learning—specifically the ability to visualize letters, words, and language. Their approach is grounded in neuroscience research showing that many struggling readers lack adequate "symbol imagery" (visualizing letters) or "concept imagery" (creating mental pictures from language). By developing these foundational skills, students gain the processing abilities that make reading and comprehension possible.
Key Takeaways
- Research-based programs targeting cognitive foundations rather than content instruction
- Particularly effective for dyslexia, reading difficulties, and comprehension challenges
- Available through learning centers, online instruction, and home implementation
- Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education's What Works Clearinghouse
- Intensive approach typically requires significant time and financial investment
Core Programs
How Homeschoolers Access These Programs
Families have several options for accessing Lindamood-Bell instruction. The company operates 50 learning centers across the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia where students receive intensive one-on-one or small group instruction—typically 1-4 hours daily for 4-8 weeks. Live online instruction provides the same quality from home, with research showing comparable results to in-person sessions. The Lindamood-Bell Academy offers an accredited K-12 private school option with small class sizes (1-3 students) that many homeschoolers appreciate. For budget-conscious families, program materials are available through Gander Publishing for home implementation, though this requires more parent training and effort.
Cost Considerations
Lindamood-Bell is among the most expensive educational interventions available. Private instruction runs $90-110 per hour, with intensive summer programs typically costing $10,000 or more. This investment reflects the specialized training of instructors and the intensive nature of the programs. Financial assistance options include the company's scholarship program (based on need and fund availability), use of FSA/HSA accounts for pre-tax payment, and financing plans. Some families successfully use ESA funds or similar programs where eligible. DIY home implementation through purchased materials offers the most affordable route, though it requires significant parent commitment to learn and deliver the instruction properly.
Is It Worth the Investment?
For children with genuine processing deficits—particularly those with dyslexia or severe comprehension challenges—Lindamood-Bell often produces transformative results that other interventions haven't achieved. The programs address root causes rather than symptoms. However, not every struggling reader needs this level of intervention. Some children simply need more practice or a different instructional approach. Consider Lindamood-Bell when other quality reading programs have failed, when evaluations reveal specific processing weaknesses, or when your child's struggles seem disproportionate to the instruction received.
The Bottom Line
Lindamood-Bell offers highly specialized, research-validated intervention for struggling learners—particularly those with dyslexia and comprehension difficulties. The programs work because they target underlying cognitive processes rather than just drilling content. The cost is substantial, but for children who genuinely need this level of intervention, the results can be life-changing. Explore whether your child's struggles warrant specialized assessment and consider home implementation options if center-based instruction exceeds your budget.
