Looking to hire an after-school tutor? BBB gives parents six steps for hiring a trustworthy academic advisor.
With the start of the new school year, chances are parents are discovering which subjects their children can use a little extra help in. BBB is urging parents to brush up on their research skills to ensure their investment in a tutor will pass the test.
Hire a qualified tutor with these BBB tips:
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- Figure out your budget. Private tutors can be expensive, depending on the subject area, years of experience and where the lessons take place. Prices for online tutoring, or commercial learning centers may vary based on the program.
- Explore all of your options. Are you looking for private, in-home tutoring? Or small group lessons? Online step-by-step instruction? Think about how your child learns, and what will be most effective to help them. What works for one child may not work for another.
- Get referrals. Ask your children’s teachers who they recommend. They may know of someone in your area who has proven results, or an older student who understood the material well and is willing to help. You can also ask parents of other children in the class if they know of anyone.
- Communicate what you need. Some tutors are better at homework help, some are better at long-term lessons and some are better at quick test preparation. You and the tutor should discuss what each of you expecting, and how can it be achieved.
- Ask About Availability. It is effective to have consistent sessions but avoid times that are late at night or on chaotic days. Flexibility is important if your child needs a few extra sessions to prepare for an upcoming test.
- Discuss Price. The price may depend on your child’s age and the difficulty of the subject being taught. Private freelance tutors usually charge less than tutoring centers, so determine the best fit for your budget and your child’s needs.
For more tips you can trust, visit bbb.org.
