Kaidence recently accomplished something amazing — she became an independent reader.
Reading has always been a challenge for the 12-year-old. But with help from her tutor at the SAY Play Center — Ms. Caroline — Kaidence has gained the skills and confidence to read independently.
Ms. Caroline worked on the same reading principles as Kaidence’s teachers at Detroit Prep: “Sound it out, spell it, say it”. Ms. Caroline also reads with the student for 30 minutes two or three times a week and encourages Kaidence to read with her mom when not at SAY Play.
“SAY Play helps you do better at school. If you are struggling, ask a tutor for help. They will help you ‘level up’.”
— Kaidence
Kaidence used to need a teacher or classmate to help with assignment instructions, specifically for math, her favorite subject. But now, she feels more confident to take her time and read the instructions herself.
Kaidence has been attending SAY Play since last year when she was in 5th grade. She has worked with Ms. Caroline since February. Now, as a 6th grader, she enjoys participating in the sports programs that the Center offers, “I play volleyball, basketball, football, softball… I love them all.”
Donors and volunteers of SAY Detroit help provide students at SAY Play and patients at the SAY Clinic the tools and resources they need to be successful.