Our Method
Where Regulation Meets Reading
Regulate to Read™
A Regulation-First Approach to Literacy
The Regulate to Read™ Method
Regulate to Read™ is a literacy readiness and regulation-support method developed by Shecondria Duncan, Founder of NeuroStars Phonics Factory, drawing from her background as an educator, literacy interventionist, and certified wellness coach. This initiative integrates emotional wellness, regulation strategies, and structured literacy support to help neurodivergent learners, including students with autism, dyslexia, and ADHD, feel more ready to engage in reading, spelling, and literacy instruction. Rather than separating emotional support from academic instruction, Regulate to Read™ helps students build awareness of their bodies, manage emotions, use regulation tools, and remain engaged during the learning process.
Why It Matters
For many students, learning to read is not just an academic challenge—it is an emotional one. Frustration, anxiety, and overwhelm can interfere with focus, persistence, and confidence. Without the tools to manage these experiences, students may disengage from learning altogether. Regulate to Read addresses this by equipping students with the skills they need to stay regulated and continue learning, even when tasks feel difficult.
Our Approach
A Structured Approach to Literacy and Emotional Regulation
A Structured Learning Progression
- Build awareness of their bodies and feelings
- Learn and apply regulation strategies
- Express their emotions in healthy ways
- Reflect on what supports their learning
- Develop resilience during academic challenges
- Strengthen their identity as capable learners
The Regulation Toolkit
- Calm Breathing – Guided breathing to support emotional regulation
- Movement – Structured movement to release energy and improve focus
- Grounding – Attention-based strategies such as “feet on the floor” to stabilize and refocus
Students learn how to recognize what their body needs and choose the appropriate tool independently.
How It Works
Regulate to Read is embedded directly into literacy instruction.
Each session includes:
- A brief emotional wellness component
- Guided practice of regulation strategies
- Real-time application during reading activities
Students learn to use these strategies while they are actively engaged in learning, not after challenges occur.
What Makes This Method Different
- Regulation is taught during learning, not separate from it
- Students build self-awareness and independence over time
- Instruction supports both emotional and academic development
- Students gain tools they can use beyond the classroom
Regulate to Read is more than a literacy intervention—it is a framework for developing self-regulated learners.
Outcomes
Students who engage in Regulate to Read demonstrate:
- Increased emotional awareness
- Improved ability to regulate during learning
- Greater persistence with challenging tasks
- Increased engagement in literacy instruction
- Stronger confidence in their ability to learn
Our Commitment
At NeuroStars Phonics Factory, we are committed to creating learning environments that are inclusive, responsive, and empowering. Regulate to Read reflects our mission to support the whole child—academically and emotionally—so that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Literacy Readiness
Support the Tools That Help Students Regulate, Focus, and Read
Regulate to Read helps neurodivergent learners build the emotional readiness, confidence, and regulation skills needed to engage in structured literacy instruction. Your support helps provide sensory tools, calming resources, movement-based learning materials, student reflection tools, and literacy readiness supports.