When is it the right time to find a tutor for your child? There are several clear signs that signal a tutor may be an appropriate answer for your child.
If your child is entering a new school with a different curriculum, then a tutor may be a great resource to ease the transition and to keep your child feeling successful and ready.
Even if your child is attending the same school as last year, if he or she is having a rough start to the new year, some time with a tutor can help your child to establish good study habits.
During the year, are his or her grades plummeting? Despite your child’s best efforts, when grades keep falling, it is time to provide the extra support through a tutor. Tutors are able to work closely with your child and can help pinpoint the source of confusion or error.
If your child’s teacher recommends a tutor, ask specific questions about why they think a tutor is the answer and then act accordingly. Often the teacher may see that there is a gap between what or how they are able to teach and the response from the student. A tutor is a valuable resource in this situation.
When your child asks you for a tutor, it is a clear indication that they understand their own limitations and are willing to take the next step to build their skills.
Take your time, however, in finding the right tutor for your child. Sometimes, the best “tutor” may be the family computer. Software is available for all levels of learning and can be a valuable tool in boosting your child’s learning.
As you seek out a tutor, consider the difference between a mentor, a tutor, and an educational therapist. A tutor helps to build skills and increase knowledge. A mentor fosters learning, curiosity and initiative. An educational therapist will provide targeted supports and remediation for your child’s specific learning disabilities. Your child may benefit from all of the above!
Recommended articles on LD.org:
My child is struggling 
Now that my child has 
