Going Back to School – Studying Very Hard & Hiring a Tutor

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As we begin a new school year next month, we may want to consider preparing the support systems that our children will need in the fall.  When my oldest was in grade twelve and she took Advance Functions in Math and it kicked her butt.  I have to say, I am not a big fan of Math but as my husband says, you use it everyday of your life. As an adult, I grew to appreciate having a solid understanding of math so I know of what he speaks.  But this ‘new’ math seems to be beyond my capabilities.  When it is this hard you need to quickly consider hiring a tutor.

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Here she is very hard at work in this instagram post of her. Trying to conquer the beast.  All I remember was countless hours studying, reviewing and eventually paying a private tutor to help her through the rough parts.  In hindsight, I believe this was the best money I spent that year.  I just wish I’d known months before that she need extra help.

Tips on Hiring a Tutor:

• ask department head if there is after school help available (math club, once a week open door policy etc.)
• speak to the teacher to see what challenges your student is having
• get a written report on what is needed (so the tutor knows where to focus their efforts)
• go to the guidance department and ask if they have a list of tutors
• consult with the teacher and ask if they know of tutor who has worked with other students successfully
• ask other parents if they use a tutor
• Google it! As simple as that may seem, google has listings and reviews on-line
• Ask if they are familiar with the Grade 10, 11, 12 curriculum (saves time)
• See if student is fluent in subject area (not a generalist) but majoring in the subject
• Ask for references and call them up!
• check if the tutor can do a test run (1 hour session) to see if it is a good fit
• Ask if they can drive to: school, library or if student must meet them (we had to drive to university and they met in library)
• Ask availability (you may want to meet more than once a week)
• Do they have access to quiet private space (but not secluded) – study room
• Ask for a meeting after initial meeting to put together a game plan
• Ask how they will prep student for assignments, unit tests or exams
• Set goals: increase in GPA or increase of 20% on next exam

Hiring a tutor can be done pretty quickly and finding the right one will be very beneficial to your sanity and your child’s self confidence.  Every child learns differently and with two children on IEPs (individual education plans), you know there will be challenges for them.  Hiring a tutor before they are in real danger of failing a course is important.

Giving them the confidence of knowing there is no dumb question and being able to tackle specific challenges one-on-one is key. We found a tutor that ‘spoke’ our daughter’s language and helped her understand what was important and what short-cuts would help her solve a problem quickly.  We never regretted hiring a tutor and encourage you to help your teen be the best version of themselves!

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