Schools teach students in a generalized way. The curriculum is standardized and the teaching method is at a pace that would fit majority of the students. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always work. Parents today are unwilling to let their children’s education be generalized and standardized to the extent that it harms their progress.
Some students need extra assistance because they’re weak in particular subjects; others need it because they’re strong and lose interest quickly. Tutoring is a good way for children to learn properly at their pace. Moreover, the one-on-one interaction with the tutor might encourage interest in different subjects and allow the students to be more open with questions and doubts. This can only happen if you find the right tutor and here’s how you can do it:
Tutoring Services
There are several kinds of tutoring services available to you. You should look at all options and consider which is best for you. Here’s a list of common tutoring options:
- Private tutors who are retired teachers, professionals, even college students.
- Tutoring agencies that send certified tutors to your home.
- Tutoring centers that conduct classes in their premises that a student has to visit.
- On-line tutors that teach through videos and services like Skype.
- Free tutoring services organized by the school, church, and other such organization.
Ask for References
You should ask your fellow parents, friends, colleagues, and relatives if they have any references or suggestions. The word-of-mouth reference is the most reliable way to find good tutors. You can also look at online reviews, testimonials, and browse through the tutor’s website if she has one.
Interviewing Potential Candidates
Interviewing the potential candidate is a must before you allow them to start teaching your child. There are several questions you might need to ask your tutor, but these are the most important ones:
- What’s their educational background?
- How much tutoring experience do they have?
- When are they available?
- Do they have their own transportation?
- Do they use different tutoring techniques?
- Would they be willing to collaborate with the school teacher?
- Can you legally work in the US?
- Do you have a criminal record?
Background Checks
It’s vital to do a background check for every tutor you allow to teach your children. The criminal background check is a must. You can do this by approaching the court in your county. If your tutor has just moved into your county or is from another county, you’ll need to check there.
Attending Sessions
Once you hire a tutor, it’s a good idea to sit on some of the sessions. This will show you how your child interacts with the tutor. Be sure to monitor your child’s success and performance. After a few sessions, sit down with your kid and ask her how she feels about the tutor and if she likes the teaching style. The tutor is for the children, after all.
If you want to find the best tutors, you can start looking by browsing through the Hot Frog US Tutoring page. You’re sure to find someone that fits your requirements.
