Questions to ask when hiring a tutor

How do you choose a tutor for kids who learn and think differently? Whether you’re looking for a tutor to help your child with dyslexia, dyscalculia, or something else, it’s important to ask the right questions.

Here are questions to ask before you hire a tutor for your child.

Basic qualifications

• How long have you been tutoring?

• What are your qualifications, certifications, or credentials?

• What’s your expertise in the content area my child is studying?

• Have you worked before with kids or adults who have trouble with the same skills as my child?

• Do you have references I can speak to?

Tutoring strategies

• Can you tell me a little bit about your teaching philosophy?

• What strategies have you found help most when you start to work with a child?

• How will you get a sense of my child’s needs?

• How would you help my child with [specific challenge your child has had]?

• What kind of results can I expect to see?

• What happens if my child doesn’t make progress?

• What might get in the way of achieving your tutoring goals?

Collaboration and communication

• What can I do to support the process?

• How will you communicate with me, and how often?

• How will you work and communicate with my child’s teachers?

• How will you measure and share progress?

Availability, location, and costs

• What’s your availability?

• Where will the tutoring sessions take place?

• Do you offer online tutoring? If so, are there any specific technology tools we need at home?

• How long is each tutoring session?

• How much do you charge per session?

• Are there other fees (for materials or assessments, for example)?

• What’s your policy for cancellations and make-up sessions?

Some tutors specialize in supporting kids with specific challenges. Learn how to find a tutor to help with dyslexia or dyscalculia.