Consider the following questions, and use them when you and your child interview potential tutors.
- What is your educational background?
If your child is struggling in chemistry, you'll look for a tutor with a strong science background. However, a different education is needed to teach first-grade reading. - What type of teaching experience do you have?
Look for a tutor who has worked with students similar in age and ability to your child. - How do you evaluate each student's needs?
Find out whether the tutor will use standardized tests, school reports, or other forms of evaluation to discover your child's strengths and weaknesses. - What tutoring methods do you use?
Some tutors do a lot of talking with their students. Others use visual aids. Still others find physical ways to involve their students. Look for a tutor who teaches in the way your child learns best. - How often do you communicate with your students' teachers?
Tutoring is most effective when the tutor and teacher work as a team. - Will you develop an individualized plan for my child?
Having a plan lets you know where you're going and where you've been. It's an effective way to track progress. It also shows you that the tutor has put a lot of thought into how she can help your child. - How do you motivate your students?
Think of what motivates your child, and seek a tutor who uses these methods. - How often do you evaluate progress?
Some tutors will discuss your child's performance after each session; others report once a month. Some wait longer periods of time. Don't be afraid to discuss your expectations with the prospective tutor. - How long do you expect the tutoring to last?
A tutor can easily become a crutch, so it's important to get an estimate of how long it will take to help your child develop the skills and confidence to succeed independently. - Where will sessions be held?
If the tutor lives an hour away, you may not be willing to travel to his house every week. Ask if he would be willing to meet in a mutually convenient place, or look for someone closer to home. - How much do you charge for services?
Unfortunately, price is often the determining factor in choosing a tutor. However, it's more important to look at value. A more expensive tutor may be a better fit for your child and may be more effective in meeting his needs. Don't rule him out because of his fees. - What are your payment policies?
Find out in advance what forms of payment your tutor accepts, and when they are expected. Some tutors accept only cash and require payment at each session. Some will allow you to prepay a month at a time. Others may bill you for completed sessions. - What are your cancellation policies?
While most tutors are rather flexible, some require 24-hour notice if you're going to cancel. Learn this information up front to avoid charges down the line. - What hours are you available?
This question often makes or breaks a deal. You may have found the perfect tutor, but if she doesn't fit your schedule you're out of luck. - May I have the names and numbers of past students?
Always ask for references, and be sure to check them. Talk to both the students and their parents to find out about their experience with the tutor.