Ten Tips for Choosing a Tutor

Tip #1

It is essential that a student work with a tutor who has been trained to use the appropriate techniques.  Be sure to ask about training, experience and references.

Tip #2

There must be a good rapport between tutor and students.  Give the relationship a chance to develop but, if it doesn’t look for another tutor.

Tip #3

Plan tutoring for the time of day that the student is fresh and ready to learn.  Tutoring is an intense learning experience and you want to take advantage of it.

Tip #4

Set the goals of tutoring with the tutor.  Be sure you are both clear about whether you are focusing on remedial work, content subjects, or how to study.  Resist the temptation to do too much.

Tip #5

Some students will need practice and repetition to master the lessons and to see improvement.  Schedule the number of weekly tutoring sessions with this in mind.

Tip #6

It is better to have more frequent lessons over a short period of time than to spread the same number of lessons over a longer period.

Tip #7

If you don’t know a skilled tutor, an organization dedicated to working with children who have exceptional learning needs will be able to find a tutor with the right background and the resources necessary to support your child.

Tip #8

Arrange to talk with the tutor periodically to monitor progress, when the child is not present.  Ask for written reports monthly.

Tip #9

Ask the student’s teacher to meet with the tutor.  Teachers feel reassured to know that someone is helping the student and they are working towards a common goal.

Tip #10

Tell your child why s/he is getting tutored and what you hope to accomplish so that s/he will feel hopeful.