TOP 5 REASONS TO CONSIDER TUTORING

 

Many people consider tutoring only when they’re having a difficult time with a class or concept and don’t consider the other ways that it can positively impact a student’s academic years.  Take a look at some of the best ways that students can benefit from tutoring.

SUPPORT FOR A CHALLENGING SUBJECT.

Every student is different, has a different skill set, and different challenges. So how can students keep up in subjects that are difficult?  Tutoring is a great option.  Tutoring is provided in a small group setting or 1:1 where students are able to get the support they need in an environment that feels safe and supportive.  Maintaining a consistent schedule with a tutor is a great way to ensure that your child can confidently stay on top of their schoolwork, and is typically where you’ll find the long-term results you and your child are looking for.

PREPARATION FOR A TEST.

It may come as a surprise to most students that the best way to study is not to cram the night before an exam, but instead to set aside consistent time to review homework and notes throughout the school year.  A regular tutoring schedule with time dedicated to learning and revisiting concepts means that students are preparing for their exams as they go.  Further, learning how to study is an important skill that often needs some refinement.  Flashcards or quizlets?  Re-reading or talking through the material?  Understanding how we study requires trying out some different methods.

ORGANIZATIONAL SUPPORT.

Executive Skills are the basic cognitive and behavioral skills that adolescents develop in order to lead independent lives.  Because the “prefrontal brain systems play a key role in the development and application of executive skills” but are also “among the last areas of the brain to fully develop,” it makes sense that many students are still working on being able to efficiently manage their time, stay organized, or remain task-driven.  In other words, many students need extra help to stay organized and on top of their school work.  Having a tutor monitor assignments, provide basic academic support, and reinforce study skills can make a world of difference.

TAKING AN ONLINE CLASS.

More students than ever before are taking advantage of online classes—whether to get ahead, to accommodate an athletic schedule, to catch up, to take advantage of their summer—to reduced their workload next school year, improve their GPA, or open their schedule for another class—, or simply because they prefer a self-paced environment.  Whatever the reason, moving to an online platform can carry a level of responsibility that many students aren’t ready for.  The best way to ensure a positive experience and consistent course progress is by setting up a tutoring schedule.  This relationship is referred to as blended learning and, for most students, is the best way to succeed online.

PERSONALIZED LEARNING.

Students who need specific support to improve or re-learn specific skills (reading comprehension/fluency/decoding, writing, foundational math concepts, etc.) stand to benefit from working with a tutor.  Likewise, students who are homeschooled may find tremendous support in having a tutor focus on the areas that their parent(s) or homeshcool group can’t adequately cover.  And fianlly, students who have a diagnosed learning disability may also benefit from extra, focused support.  Finding a tutor or tutoring center with experience helping a variety of learners is the best option.  Additionally, sharing any formal testing or IEP/504 accommodation will also contribute to the tutor’s ability to provide proper instruction and support specific to the student.