TIPS: Tools in Place for Success

The TIPS battery was developed to meet the demand for a quick, relatively inexpensive screening for reading and writing problems in children ages four to eight.

Using standardized measures, this 30 to 45-minute screening assesses the adequacy of the brain-based skills that underlie early academic success. If weaknesses are found in phonological processing, sound/symbol and sight word knowledge, lexical retrieval, vocabulary, or visual-motor integration, interventions can be targeted efficiently. Administered by a doctoral level psychologist, relevant behavioral and emotional issues are also identified. The testing session and feedback to the parent occur at the same appointment; total time is 90 minutes to two hours. The brief report includes scores, summary, and recommendations.

The TIPS battery is also used on-site by local private schools to provide a convenient and thorough assessment of their kindergarten or early elementary students. Kingsbury works with school directors and learning specialists to design screening days that meet the school and parents' needs in terms of financial considerations, informational sessions, and identifying appropriate interventions both inside and out of the school.