About

Welcome to Complete Learning Development! We’re so glad you dropped by! If you’re in need of answers as to why your child is struggling with academics, as well as solutions that will bring real results, you’ve come to the right place!

What is CLD?

Complete Learning Development (CLD) is an in-person, private instruction service, founded by Kathy Palmquist (Certified Educational Therapist), which offers individualized instruction designed to provide help for students who are currently struggling in reading, math, or related subjects. It is not content based tutoring, but rather Educational Therapy, which is a mediated instructional method that addresses the cognitive skills needed to learn effectively. (Learn more @ https://nild.org )

CLD utilizes the Gray Matter and Search & Teach materials offered through the National Institute for Learning Development. https://nild.org

Search and Teach (Archie A. Silver & Rosa A Hagin) is a program designed for early learners, typically Kindergarten through 1st grade.  Its approach is to identify cognitive strengths and weaknesses, target pre-reading skills, and determine the best path to ensuring success in learning to read.  With an emphasis on early intervention, it does not require student failure to lend support!   https://www.searchandteach.com/

Gray Matter (NILD) is a phonics based reading program which provides support to the older learner (2nd through 12th grade) at their areas of greatest challenge. By first assessing cognitive strengths and weaknesses, then systematically and explicitly teaching the necessary skills, gaps in learning are closed and students are able to process information more effectively.  The goal of this program is to develop independent learning in each and every student.  

For students who struggle with Mathematics, CLD also provides systematic instruction in basic Math concepts and skills, utilizing the NILD methodology of mediated learning. 

In addition to these basics, students who enroll with CLD will be receiving instruction in writing, spelling, listening, remembering, planning, and many other important aspects of cognitive growth and development.

About Kathy Palmquist:

Education / Background

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education, K-12, LD/BD from Illinois State University
  • National Institute for Learning Development certified through Level III, Search and Teach, Rx for Reading and GET (Group Educational Therapy).
  • Former Educational Therapist @ Trinity Oaks Christian Academy, Cary, IL
  • Independent Educational Therapist @ Aurora Christian School, Aurora, IL
  • Former Family Teacher @ Mooseheart Child City and School, Mooseheart, IL
  • Former Reading Interventionist @ Calvary Christian School, Naperville, IL
  • Current founder of Complete Learning Development

(See Blog for complete Bio)