Have you been wondering how to find the best online tutor for your child? Considering hiring a tutor, and wondering if this option can help your child excel academically?
Today, many schools across the US are only offering distance learning. That means less one-on-one time and fewer chances for your child to get individual guidance from teachers. That’s why many parents are turning to tutors for assistance.
Luckily, research shows that tutoring works. The US Department of Education has conducted studies that suggest tutoring improves academic skills, boosts test scores, and helps children overcome academic challenges.
Finding a tutor can help your child achieve their academic goals. And tutors can also be a great resource for kids who are already thriving. You might even consider hiring a tutor to advance your child in a subject they love.
9 Smart Tips for Finding the Right Online Tutor
Of course, figuring out how to find the best online tutor for your child can feel a little overwhelming at first. From sifting through countless websites to wondering what subjects you should prioritize, it can be hard to narrow down your search to land on the perfect match.
By following the simple steps below, you can cut through the noise and find a lasting tutor who can help lift your child’s academics to the next level.
1. Start With Intention
More frequent tutoring sessions tend to yield the best results, and it’s great if you’re ready to dive in and find a full-time tutor for your child. However, you don’t need a full-time tutor to get a huge amount of mileage. In fact, you can start with just a short, weekly session. Many children will gain more from brief, focused learning time than hours of study. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s consistent. Regular, weekly sessions mean your child can gain comfort from a predictable schedule, and also build trust in their tutor over time.
2. Time It Right
Schedule sessions during a time your student is most energized. Most kids are receptive in the morning, so consider scheduling tutoring time during that window. However, your child may feel most willing to learn at lunch time, or even in the evening. There’s no one size fits all – so time tutoring sessions based on your child’s needs.
3. Get in the Zone
Today, you have access to tutors all around the world. However, choosing a tutor within your time zone can make scheduling regular sessions much easier for your family and for the teacher you choose. In fact, you’ll be amazed at how many incredible tutors you can find in your specific region.
4. Stay Goal Oriented
Have a clear understanding of what you and your child want from tutoring sessions, and communicate that goal with your child and their tutor. Looking to help your child understand Algebra concepts? Need help passing a specific test? Want assistance with French pronunciation? Or, want long-term academic support? Providing clear parameters will keep tutoring sessions focused.
5. Consider Your Child’s Learning Style
Your child may learn best through written material or your child may be a physical learner who thrives with a hands-on approach. Research suggests that children approach learning in lots of different ways, and that all of those methods are valid. Look for a tutor who appreciates your child’s strengths while challenging your child to think outside the box.
6. Look for Experience
Make sure the academic tutor you choose has extensive training in the subject they’ll be tutoring, and also demonstrates a wealth of experience in one-on-one teaching. Tutoring is a unique skill, and the right tutor will draw from both their own academic education and their pedagogical knowledge. Take some time to browse top rated tutors, peruse their profiles, read their reviews, and find a tutor you trust.
7. Prioritize Rapport
Tutors play a major role in their students’ lives. Not only are they a teacher, but they frequently play the part of cheerleader and role model. Not only is it important to find a tutor that’s experienced and educated, they’ll need to have a good rapport with your child. If your child feels great about the person they’re learning from, they’ll be more receptive to the material presented in their tutoring sessions. When you start thinking about how to find the best online tutor for your child, remember that their professional qualifications are only part of the equation. Look for a friendly tutor your child enjoys learning from.
8. One-On-One or Group
You might want a tutor to conduct one-on-one sessions with your child, to help your child overcome a challenge or understand a specific subject more deeply. Or, you may hire a tutor to augment academics for a small group of friends. With learning pods becoming more popular, more and more parents are hiring tutors for weekly online sessions. When you choose a tutor, think about which of these options feels like the right fit for you and your family, and communicate with your new tutor so they know what to expect.
9. Collaborate
You don’t necessarily need to sit in on every tutoring session, but remember that as a parent, you’re a key part of the learning process. Keep notes on your child’s assignments, and make sure those assignments are tackled each week. Make sure your tutor is aware of your child’s current classwork and assignments. This way, your child’s tutor can assist in helping prepare for quizzes, tests, and homework.
Finding the Best Online Tutor for Your Child is Worthwhile
When you’re wondering how to find the best online tutor for your child, the options are myriad. And the benefits are endless. The right online tutor will be an experienced professional who exposes your child to both their expertise, and their love of the subject they teach.
Your child will get one-on-one attention that helps them overcome the specific roadblocks they’re facing. A tutor will shape a learning experience specifically for your child, based on your child’s unique learning style. And tutoring also empowers your child, because finally, they’ll have a trusted mentor cheering them on.
This individualized attention helps your child overcome challenges, thrive as a student, and most importantly, develop confidence in their academic abilities.
Need academic inspiration? Browse TakeLessons tutors today to find the best fit for your child!
Phina Pipia