How to Choose a Tutor

Carole Forde
Apr 28, 2015
2 min read

When seeking a tutor for a child, it may be difficult to proceed because the options can be overwhelming. Ask yourself whether your child needs extra help or if you simply want him/her to move ahead. Once you answer that question, begin searching.

A good instructor should know and understand how children learn and develop. For example, younger children tend to learn best by rote memorization, but as they age, children need to develop critical thinking skills and creativity.

Here are some suggestions:

Talk with your child’s teacher for input into your child’s strengths and weaknesses.
Ask teachers or other parents to recommend a tutor.
Interview as many tutors as necessary to find the right fit for your child and give the relationship a chance to develop. You may have no say in choosing your child’s classroom teacher—you do with a private instructor.
Check the tutor’s credentials. Look at his or her training and experience and ask for references. The tutor should know the subject well and how to teach it at the child’s level. If your child has special needs or is learning disabled, his or her instructor should have the necessary qualifications.
Be clear about your expectations. Make sure the tutor is able to explain the lesson plans and how they will help your child. If necessary, ask that the lessons be coordinated to supplement the school curriculum. A good tutor will be able to create a program to meet your child’s individual needs and not just have preset lessons. When it comes to learning, one size does not fit all.
When using a learning centre, ask if the owner is an educator or a business person. This can make a real difference in how the centre is administered.
You should observe your child and tutor working together and feel free to do so any time you choose.
Within a few months, there should be measurable academic improvement; if not, the tutor ought to be able to identify the problem and offer solutions.
The cost of a tutor may vary from place to place, but remember that the more qualified the instructor, the more you are likely to pay. While the most expensive tutor may not necessarily be the best, it is highly unlikely that the cheapest one will be.