Tutoring Your Own Child in Reading and Math: A How-To Guide

Tips for Tutoring Your Child in Reading and Math

Identify What Your Child Needs

The benefit of tutoring your own child at home is that you can cater the lessons to specifically meet his or her needs. Communicate with your child's teacher so you know exactly what's expected at school. Find out the areas of reading and math that your child struggles with the most and then review these areas on your own. For example, if your child is struggling with synonyms and antonyms, you can make this the focus of your home sessions.

Another reason to talk with your child's teachers is so your tutoring lessons are in sync with the lessons your child is receiving at school. Certain teaching methods (such as arithmetic algorithms, for example) have changed over time, and it's possible that your child may become confused or frustrated if you try to teach something differently.

Create a Tutoring Environment

Designate a specific time each night for tutoring. Make sure your child knows that this slot is reserved for schoolwork only and that playtime comes at another time. This will help your child become accustomed to concentrating at the same time every day.

Designating a specific place for homework, studying and tutoring sessions can also be very helpful. This spot should be quiet, organized and free of distractions, like the television and the Internet. The less distractions there are the more focused your child will probably be.

Let your child participate in the tutoring session. Having your child explain concepts in his or her own words can help solidify the concept in his or her mind. In both math or reading, don't assume your child understands the material. Always have your child reiterate new ideas.

Tutoring Techniques

Whether it's for school or fun, reading with your child can be helpful because you can monitor his or her comprehension. Have your child read sentences aloud and when a passage is complete, test your child's comprehension by asking questions.

For math, teach your child the basic concepts and guide him or her through a problem rather than solving the problem yourself. This will help your child complete the same sort of problem alone in the future. Be sure to maintain a positive attitude and always encourage progress rather than discouraging mistakes.