Top Ten Tutoring Tips for Parents

Tutoring is more than long division and split infinitives. How you can help your child at home?

1. Get trained. You may not only need to brush up on the subject matter, but you can most certainly benefit from some tutor training as well. Check at your child's school or tutoring center.
2. Set and follow a consistent set of rules. Write them down and put them up! You and your child must agree upon a set of rules. This will cut down on wasted time and unnecessary struggles.
3. Don't be afraid to admit that you don't know something. Find someone who can help. Guessing is not learning.
4. Make sure your child knows that it is okay not to succeed in the beginning. Success often requires many unsuccessful attempts.
5. Ask Questions. Questions enhance problem solving and promote critical thinking.
6. Use examples. Demonstrate similar processes or explain using real examples.
7. Stay positive. Use encouraging vocabulary and give positive feedback. Reinforce effort and give constructive criticism.
8. Summarize and review. Help your child absorb and retain the information.
9. Celebrate accomplishment. Offer rewards for a job well done.
10. Keep records for future reference. Records help show your child and you just how much progress has been made over time.

Just remember, learning is hard work! The rewards are worth the effort.