The ABCs of Hiring a Tutor for Your Child

In a recent parent-teacher meeting, you were told that your child needs a tutor in one or more subjects, but you may not be sure how to even start the process of hiring a tutor for your child. Here are some tips to help you out.

Determine your child's needs

Keep up with your child's grades, and pay special attention to the areas in which he seems to be struggling. Spend time with him, and help him with areas that he doesn't understand. If his grades do not improve, look for a professional tutor.

Discuss the objective with his teacher

Does your child need more practice, or does he need help with understanding the material? Are there any learning disabilities involved with the problem? All of these things need to be taken into consideration before you hire a tutor.

The cost of tutoring

The objective of the tutoring your child needs will more than likely determine the cost. Tutoring can range from $20 per hour to well over $200 an hour, depending on what your child needs. You need to realize that this will be a relatively long-term investment.

Which tutor?

It is usually best to find a tutor that is academically prepared to help your child in the area in which he needs help. This can be a retired teacher or a college student majoring in that area. Interview the tutor, and have the person explain what approach will be used and how he or she plans to help your child.

Have the prospective tutor meet your child and spend some one-on-one time with him before you hire the person. Watch your child and see how he responds to the person applying for the job. If your child does not respond well to the prospective tutor, look for someone else.

The tutor's personality

When you are considering hiring a tutor for your child, take note of the person's personality. The tutor should be enthusiastic and optimistic concerning his or her ability to meet your child's needs. The most important aspect is that the tutor should be able to develop an excellent rapport with your child.