Welcome to

The Learning Launchpad

Your starting point for simple, powerful learning support at home.

Blue outline of a rocket ship above the text 'UP, UP, AND AWAY!'
Blue outline of a rocket ship above the text 'UP, UP, AND AWAY!'
When Not to Worry About Reading
Catriona Kennedy Catriona Kennedy

When Not to Worry About Reading

Every child learns to read at their own pace. If you've ever found yourself wondering whether your child's reading is 'normal', this guide is for you. Learn which reading behaviours are often part of typical development, how you can help at home, and when it's worth seeking further advice.

Read More
Why Doing More Comprehension Papers Isn't Enough for SEAG Success
Catriona Kennedy Catriona Kennedy

Why Doing More Comprehension Papers Isn't Enough for SEAG Success

What if the best way to improve your child's SEAG comprehension isn't by completing more comprehension papers?

Many parents spend months working through practice tests, yet their child's comprehension doesn't improve as much as they'd hoped. The reason is simple: comprehension isn't built by answering more questions alone. It's built through reading widely, developing vocabulary and building knowledge. In this blog, I'll explain why becoming a better reader—not just completing more tests—is one of the most powerful ways to prepare for SEAG.

Read More
When Sight Is Not the Barrier: Reading, Access, and Protecting Confidence
Catriona Kennedy Catriona Kennedy

When Sight Is Not the Barrier: Reading, Access, and Protecting Confidence

This week, after attending a talk by Richard Moore, I was left reflecting deeply on what access to reading really means. A blind man demonstrated how he can read using assistive technology — while many children who can see still struggle to read.

For parents of children with dyslexia and other learning differences, this gap between understanding and reading can be heartbreaking. This blog explores how confidence, dignity, and access matter just as much as instruction — and why assistive technology deserves thoughtful consideration alongside structured literacy teaching.

Read More