How to Hire a Tutor

Tutoring benefits all kinds of students, whether they are performing above, below or at expected levels for their age group. A trained tutor can provide one-on-one attention, an individualized approach and a big boost for your child's self-esteem.

Things You'll Need

• Recommendations

Instructions

1. Determine your goals. They may be very specific, such as raising a math grade from a C to a B, or more general, such as getting your child more excited about learning.

2. Talk to your child about why you feel tutoring is so important. He or she may be resistant to the idea of needing extra help, or be embarrassed about it. Taking the time to be supportive and encouraging can make a big difference.

3. Ask for recommendations from your child's school, other parents, or local colleges and universities.

4. Interview prospective tutors about their qualifications, experience, areas of expertise and teaching style. After a first meeting with the tutor, ask your child what he or she thinks. Without a connection between the two of them, your efforts may be in vain. Be clear with the tutor about your expectations.

5. Discuss the hourly fee, which can start at $25 an hour. Choose a location that works for both your child and the tutor. Get references from the tutor's other clients and contact them. Talk to the students themselves if it's appropriate.

6. Check in with your child, the child's teacher at school, and the tutor as lessons progress. Find out if they feel tutoring is making a difference and how you can help.

7. Ask for regular updates about your child's progress.

Tips & Warnings

• Match your child's personal style with his or her tutor's. Would your child benefit from lots of structure or a more flexible approach? Will cracking jokes help your child crack the books?