What Is Tutoring? A Guide for Parents of School-Aged Children

Tutoring is becoming increasingly popular around the world. Many children will receive tutoring at some point during their school years, whether to catch up, keep up, or get ahead.

But what exactly is tutoring? What types are available? And how do you know if it's the right choice for your child?

What Is Tutoring?

At its core, tutoring is personalized academic support provided by a tutor to a student. It’s designed to complement, not replace, the learning that happens in the classroom.

Students typically seek tutoring for three key reasons:

• Catch up – they’ve fallen behind and need extra help
• Keep up – they’re doing fine but want to stay on track
• Get ahead – they’re excelling and need more challenging work

How Is Tutoring Different From Teaching?

Tutoring differs from teaching in a few key ways:

• Tutoring at Kip McGrath is usually done in very small groups, allowing for individualized attention.
• It focuses on the specific learning needs of the student and tutors can adjust the pace, content, and approach based on the student.
• Schools often rely on more independent learning, while tutoring can offer guided, step-by-step support.

Benefits of Tutoring

Because tutoring is so personalized, it comes with a range of benefits:

• A tailored learning experience that suits your child’s pace and style
• More efficient learning with fewer distractions
• Improved academic performance and progress
• Development of key study skills and learning habits
• Boosted confidence and motivation
• A stronger sense of control and engagement in learning

Tutoring can also positively impact your child’s self-esteem and overall attitude towards school, the confidence this can bring has benefits that last well beyond the classroom.

Types of Tutoring Available

While the basics of tutoring are the same, there are many different types of tutoring out there for school-aged children, including:

1. One-on-One In-Person Tutoring

A tutor works face-to-face with a single student, often at home or in a tutoring center.

Benefits: Focused attention, strong tutor-student connection, minimal distractions
Considerations: Limited availability in some areas, less flexible in emergencies

2. Small Group In-Person Tutoring

Small group tutoring (usually fewer than 5 students) taught together by one tutor.

Benefits: More affordable, encourages peer interaction and discussion
Considerations: Less individual attention, possible distractions

3. One-on-One Online Tutoring

Online tutoring takes place via video call or digital platform.

Benefits: Flexible, convenient, access to a broader range of tutors
Considerations: Requires a stable internet connection, potential for screen fatigue

4. Small Group Online Tutoring

A tutor leads a small group session online, focusing on each student’s needs individually.

Benefits: Combines personal instruction with peer learning, flexible and accessible
Considerations: Possible distractions, may not suit every learning style

Some online tutoring is live (synchronous), while others are asynchronous—where students complete tasks independently and submit work or questions for the tutor to review later.

How Do I Know If Tutoring Will Suit My Child?

If you’re unsure whether tutoring is right for your child, the best approach is to give it a try, especially if you’ve noticed them struggling, coasting, or needing extra challenge.

Start With an Assessment

Begin by understanding your child’s current strengths and areas for improvement. You can speak with their school teacher or book a free learning assessment like the one we offer here at Kip McGrath. These assessments help identify what kind of tutoring would be most helpful and allow the tutor to personalize a plan.

Choose the Right Format

If your child could benefit from support, choose a type of tutoring that suits you and your child - you know them best, and you know what will work for your family.

One-on-one may work best for very shy children, but equally, the interaction and dynamic of small group tutoring might spur them on and bring them out of their shell.

Students who are excelling at school may be keen to get a tutor. But, if your child is struggling, they may be more reluctant. While it may be a struggle to get them to the first session, if you find the right tutor for your child, you might even find they enjoy going.

A Gift to Your Child

Tutoring is more than extra lessons, it’s a way to give your child the support, confidence, and tools they need to thrive. Whether they’re catching up, keeping pace, or pushing ahead, tutoring has a part to play.

The right tutor at the right time can make a lasting difference in a student’s academic journey and future. Book a free learning assessment today and start your child on the path to unlocking their full potential.