Thinking of getting a tutor? Important questions to ask
6. How will the tutor measure your child's needs and progress?
Ask how the tutor will devise a plan that's right for your child and measure whether goals are achieved. If the tutor provides reports in writing, ask for a sample so you can be sure that they will be clear and helpful.
7. How will the tutor communicate with you and your child's teacher? How frequently?
Your child's tutor and classroom teacher should be working toward a common goal. Ideally, the teacher and tutor will be able to communicate and reinforce each other's work. Be sure to let the teacher know about the tutoring your child is receiving and ask if he can give you feedback on your child's progress in the classroom. You will also need to establish a regular time when your child is not present to discuss her progress with the tutor.
8. What is your tutor's policy for cancellations and make-up sessions?
Many private tutors who rely on clients for their salaries will charge if an appointment is canceled without 24-hour notice. Others have detailed policies for make-up sessions. Check your tutor's policy.
9. What will happen if the tutoring fails to help your child?
Find out the procedures for switching to a different tutor within a company and the deadline to decide if that's necessary. Does the tutor "guarantee" certain results? How are those results measured? What happens if your child doesn't achieve them?
10. What can you do to reinforce your child's learning?
Tutoring isn't magic, and parents need to reinforce a tutor's lessons every day. Ask the tutor for suggestions on how you can help your child. Be prepared to check in at the end of a session or afterward to make sure you know what your child is expected to do before the next session, whether it's practicing multiplication facts or making sure all classroom homework is completed.
