Setting Expectations for Tutoring (Grades 1-5)
[Tips for Tutors]
Tutoring younger students can be simultaneously fun, exciting, and scary. What if they don’t listen? What if they don’t make enough progress? What if they don’t like me? The list of worries can go on and on… But with elementary students, there are a few key things to keep in mind to help make the tutoring process fun and productive for you BOTH!
Confidence is key when it comes to working with elementary students. Typically, these kids want to have fun more than they want to learn some particular curriculum in their free time. Learning how to convey a confident demeanor and professionalism is the best way to get kids to see the importance of the learning process. Even those with intrinsic motivation will become even MORE motivated when faced with a confident person offering support and guidance.
Some resistance is expected — I mean, who wouldn’t want to eat a snack, watch their favorite TV show (or play their game), after a long day at school?
You must go in understanding the importance of having a good, positive, relationship with the child – but also set some clear expectations about the work that needs to get done as well. For ALL children, I recommend talking about some general expectations (e.g., materials, time frame) with the parents first and ask the parents to help you enforce these expectations. Then you can introduce them to the child.
- Grades 1-3 will probably do okay with you showing them the expectation and having a general conversation about how following them will help you both have fun (and learn).
- Grades 4-5 will most likely appreciate co-creating these expectations with you. Asking questions like, “How can we make sure to get everything done while we are here?” or “How many breaks do you think we should plan for during our sessions” helps give opportunities for collaboration.
This is not to say that the child makes ALL the expectations, or has to necessarily like ALL the expectations. But… it does convey respect for their thoughts and opinions – which then increases the chance of them actually complying with the expectations you both agree to.
As the tutor, clear and consistent expectations help keep things in focus and the work productive. Remember to be confident in your skills, knowledge, and position when working with all children. A few reminders:
- YOU were chosen for this role
- YOU know what success looks like for this subject
- The child wants to learn and your guidance will help them
- When in doubt, use your support circle for help
Keywords: tutoring, tips, intervention, academics, support, elementary, learning, expectations
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