We find the missing foundations — and build them.
Many children struggle at school not because they are incapable, but because the foundational learning skills required for academic success have not yet fully developed. These gaps are often invisible to parents and teachers, yet they affect everything — from concentration in class to completing homework at home.
At Catch Up Kids, we begin by identifying exactly which developmental skills are missing. We then design a structured, individualised programme to strengthen those skills — giving each child the tools they need to learn effectively and independently.
The Skills We Develop
Our multi-disciplinary programmes focus on building the following core learning foundations:
- Attention and focus
- Cognitive processing speed and accuracy
- Memory and learning efficiency
- Language and communication
- Emotional regulation
- Social skills
- Planning and executive functioning
By strengthening these foundations, children are able to re-engage in the classroom with renewed confidence — and remain on track within their mainstream school environment.
A Multi-Disciplinary Team
All Catch Up Kids staff have a background in psychology and receive specialised training in childhood development. Our team includes psychology graduates, Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) specialists, and behaviour management experts.
We use positive reinforcement and proven motivation strategies to teach children the skills they are missing — at a pace and in a style that works for them.
Ilana Gerschlowitz
Ilana Gerschlowitz completed her Law Degree in 1998 at the University of the Witwatersrand and was subsequently admitted and practiced as an attorney. In 2004, when her oldest son David was diagnosed with autism at the age of 20 months, she immersed herself into research to find solutions. In 2009 she hosted the landmark Challenging Children Conference which successfully provided a platform for the introduction of ABA to South African parents and professionals.
Ilana is the Founding Director of The Star Academy, an affiliate of The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) in the US. She went on to establish Catch Up kids, which helps children overcome learning challenges including children with ADHD focusing on foundation phase learners. She is an advocate for inclusive education and has paved the way for many children to remain in the mainstream classroom with the support of Catch Up Kids.
Most Dedicated Staff for Your Child
Our tutors come from strong academic backgrounds, with qualifications in Psychology and related fields. Many of our team members hold advanced or multiple degrees in Psychology, and some have also completed a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education), equipping them with both a deep understanding of how children learn and the practical skills to teach effectively.
All staff are trained in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), a proven, evidence-based approach that supports positive learning and behavioural outcomes. In addition, our team receives ongoing training in childhood development, as well as health and safety practices, ensuring that every child is supported in a structured, nurturing, and secure environment. We place a strong emphasis on quality and trust. The result is a professional and dedicated team committed to achieving results
