Parents may consider using a tutor for a child who is struggling academically and in need of remediation to prevent academic problems, to supplement instruction at school, or to prepare for school/college entrance exams. It is important to recognize that tutoring is only one of many options that may be available for getting help for a child who is having difficulty. In making a decision whether to use tutoring services, parents, with the help of teachers and other school personnel, should carefully consider whether this option will result in measurable improvements in academic performance for the student.

Discuss your concerns with the teacher. First, obtain information from your child's teacher by setting up a conference to discuss skill areas that may require extra instruction or enhancement. Teachers are often able to pinpoint a child's academic strengths and weaknesses, and to recommend procedures and/or materials that may be helpful when working with the child. In making your decision about whether tutoring is needed, it is important to try to get an understanding of whether your child needs more practice opportunities versus more specialized instruction in order to learn the subject matter. This distinction may be helpful when weighing available options and making a decision regarding the best services for your child.

Questions to ask . After meeting with your child's teacher, you may also consider the following questions as a guide in determining whether tutoring may be a reasonable option.

•  Is doing homework a constant battle?

•  Is your child consistently earning low grades and receiving negative progress reports?

•  Is your child reading below grade level? Does your child read with fluency (that is, the capacity to read text accurately and quickly) and comprehension?

•  Is your child able to communicate effectively?

•  Is your child experiencing difficulty with subject area concepts?

•  Is your child able to plan and organize academic material by him/herself?

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