Tutoring…scratch that…effective tutoring isn’t simply sitting in front of a student and performing a “color by numbers” routine. Instead, effective tutoring involves developing a lesson plan that considers your child’s learning needs, implementing a strategy that accounts for their specific strengths and weaknesses, and having a tutor for your child who is knowledgeable and adaptable.
Not sure why those things matter? Keep reading.
Subject-matter expertise
This should be a top priority. If your child struggles in math, hiring an English tutor who “knows a little bit about math” would not be the appropriate choice. So, do your research.
Make sure your chosen tutor is proficient in the area where your student needs help. Check qualifications and references. Their expertise in the subject allows them to break down its problems and concepts creatively, making it easier for your student to learn.
Choosing a tutor with services and sessions that suit your needs and schedule
Can your selected tutor work around you or your child’s to-do list? Flexibility is important due to the busy lives of today’s youth. School, extracurricular activities, hobbies, sports, and even friends leave little time for conventional schedules. A tutor able to adapt to your life is convenient and contributes to less stressful sessions.
Understanding your child’s strengths and weaknesses
Each student is unique, and gaining their trust is key to unlocking hidden potential. Trust and comfort make it easier for students to gain confidence in their abilities. Likewise, successful tutors are great at building personal relationships with their students.
Collaboration between parent, student, and tutor is an important building block in establishing rapport. The byproduct of these relationships is the tutor’s understanding of a student’s academically solid areas and areas where development is needed. This allows a tutor to reinforce strengths while improving weaknesses.
When deciding on a tutor, considering the factors above will lead to positive outcomes. Be sure to research and speak with the prospective tutor to make sure they are a good match.
The Learning Team’s tutors fully engage students, making learning relevant to their interests. We also offer customizable plans, both virtual and in-person, to fit within their daily schedules.
If you’d like to have your child tutored by a subject-matter expert in the Huntsville, AL area who is knowledgeable and adaptable, please contact The Learning Team.
