After almost five weeks of tutoring four children as part of my business, I figured that now would be a good time to create an article that would provide first-time tutors like myself with some advice on how to successfully tutor multiple children at a time. So, without further ado, let's get on with the tips!
1. Tutor each child individually rather than all at once.
Let's be honest, as first-time tutors, we're probably going to end up making a lot of mistakes. And one of the biggest mistakes I made was the fact that I chose to tutor four children all at once rather than individually. Sure, it's okay to dedicate a few minutes to engage in group work with the children you are tutoring. Just make sure to spend the majority of your time tutoring each child one-on-one, as this will enable you to develop a strong relationship with them, as well as accomplish tasks a lot faster.
2. Write down each child's name in the order that you plan on tutoring them.
One of the best ways to stay on track is to write down each child's name in the order that you plan on tutoring them. In doing so, make sure to consider the amount of time that it will typically take for you to effectively tutor each child, as this will enable you to work with each child at some point during the tutoring session.
3. Have the children utilize your own study strategies if possible.
Are you having a difficult time figuring out the best way to help your clients understand the material they are being given? If so, it's time you have them utilize your own study strategies if possible! Do you tend to memorize vocabulary words by using a strategy that you feel would work for your clients as well? If so, test it out with them! If it works, you've just come up with a study strategy that your clients will be able to utilize for the duration of their educational career!
4. Stay committed to tutoring them and maintain a positive attitude when tutoring.
I'm sure I can speak for every tutor when I say that we have all lost motivation to tutor at some point. Let's be honest, sometimes we just don't feel like it. But something important that we must all remember is that tutoring is a commitment, and that, as tutors, we must all try our best maintain a positive attitude during each and every tutoring session we host.
5. Don't just improvise, come prepared!
One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a tutor is to arrive unprepared to tutor your clients. Therefore, it's best to at least come prepared with a set agenda in mind in order to get everything that needs to be done done and done well. And don't forget to prioritize! For example, it's best to get any homework done and out of the way before moving on to working in workbook assignments with your clients.
6. Remember that you're the one in charge, but don't be afraid to ask for advice from others when necessary.
Finally, remember that you're the one in charge. However, don't be afraid to ask for advice from others when necessary. Let's face it. As tutors, we're all bound to experience bumps in the road at some point while tutoring our clients. And when we do, it's important to remember that we're not the only tutors in this world, nor are we perfect at doing what we do. Therefore, don't be afraid to ask for advice from others when necessary. Be it a teacher, a parent, or even a friend, you never know how much of an impact their advice can have on the effectiveness of your tutoring.