If your child is having a hard time learning to read, needs a hand with their calculus homework, or could use some help in developing better study skills in general, a tutor may be the answer. The Better Business Bureau has advice on finding and working with a tutor to best meet your child’s needs.
Many students rely on a tutor to help them overcome a learning disability, tackle a tough subject in school, or just get ahead of the curve. Tutoring is a $5.2 billion industry and includes one-on-one tutors, learning centers, and even online help such as through Web sites and software.
Private tutors can be expensive—$30 to $70 an hour—but they do offer the most tailored approach for helping your child learn. Qualifying families with limited income can receive free tutor sessions for their children as part of the No Child Left Behind Act.
A commercial learning center, such as Sylvan or Huntington, typically costs around $150 per week, paid weekly or monthly. A learning center provides a more social atmosphere for the child; usually a tutor assists several children at a time. These programs often offer incentives for children to help make learning more fun and are typically very good about reporting on your child’s progress.
For the computer-savvy child, online tutoring usually carries a monthly fee of $35 to $130. Tutors are often available online 24-hours for kids to chat about their homework. One drawback is the limited monitoring and reporting on the child’s progress. You’ll need to keep an eye on your child to ensure they stay on task.
The BBB offers the following advice for finding and working with a tutor:
- For information on tutoring services or commercial learning centers, start your search at www.bbb.org for free BBB Reliability Reports that will help you make informed decisions.
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You should also ask for recommendations. You can start with your child’s teacher; other parents and friends can be a good resource as well.
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Check the tutor’s credentials and make sure they’re qualified in the subject area your child needs help with.
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Meet with the tutor and discuss measurable, specific goals to be achieved and don’t be afraid to hold the tutor and the child accountable if goals aren’t met.
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Ideally, you’ll want a tutor that can coordinate with your child’s teacher to help identify problem areas and address any specific subjects where your child needs help.
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If you use a personal tutor, feel free to sit in now and then and observe how the tutor and your child are working together.
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Ask the tutor for advice on what you can do as a parent to help your child learn more effectively.
For more trustworthy information on issues affecting your child’s education go to www.bbb.org.