8 Common Myths About Tutoring (& Why You Should Stop Believing Them)

Nov 19, 2019 • Tutoring Prep

There are many misconceptions about tutoring.

Whether it be that your student already excels in school, is too old for tutoring, or has a very busy schedule, there are plenty of reasons parents may think tutoring isn’t suitable.

These common misconceptions about tutoring can stand in the way of your child reaching his or her academic potential.

What many parents may not realize is that there are many tutoring benefits for every child at every level.

Keep reading as we debunk common myths about tutoring and learn how it can be beneficial for any student.
 

8 Tutoring Myths Debunked

Myth #1: Tutoring Is Only For Struggling Students

Tutoring isn’t just for students who are failing a class or falling behind in school—almost every type of student can benefit from tutoring in some way.

Every student has different goals, whether it is passing tests, improving reading and writing skills or taking on more challenging material, tutoring can help transform those goals into reality. Tutoring is suitable for students who need some extra support, students who want to maintain their grades, or those who want an extra challenge outside of school.
 

Myth #2: Tutoring Is Only For Homework Help

Tutoring isn’t just for help with homework questions—it’s designed to help children develop skills that allow them to achieve success in the classroom and beyond.

By focusing on building important skills such as critical thinking and problem solving, students develop the confidence to tackle difficult concepts and questions. Tutoring also builds better study habits, improve skills like time management, and helps students prepare to write standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, or SSAT.
 

Myth #3: Tutoring Is Too Generic To Really Be Helpful

No two students learn exactly the same way. Tutoring programs focus on the individual learning process so every student can succeed.

Unlike classroom learning, tutoring allows students to progress at a pace that meets their unique needs. Tutoring isn’t a universal approach to learning—it is tailored to meet the needs of each student and his or her learning style.
 

Myth #4: Tutoring Takes Too Much Time

With flexible after-school program hours, tutoring can be worked into a student’s existing routine.

Although tutoring may seem difficult to work into your child’s busy after-school schedule, it can end up helping a lot to organize and manage your child’s time. Dedicated tutoring hours each week gives your child the opportunity for focused, distraction-free learning with additional attention and support.
 

Myth #5: There Is No Need To Prepare For Tutoring

Preparing for each tutoring session is just as important as actually attending the session.

It’s important for your child to reflect on what he or she has learned and is confident in, and what he or she is finding confusing or difficult. Having a list of questions ready before tutoring helps guide each session and makes the most efficient use of time.
 

Myth #6: There Is No Need To Do Work Outside Of Tutoring

Although tutoring can give children an extra boost, it is not a replacement for independent work—it is just one part of a student’s toolbox for learning.

Students retain skills better if they practise what they have learned in tutoring and apply their knowledge, producing better long-term results.
 

Myth #7: Tutors Just Give The Answers

When it comes down to it, tutoring teaches your child how to learn.

Simply getting the answer isn’t effective if a student doesn’t understand how an answer was reached. Instead of giving students the answers to problems, tutoring ensures students fully understand the material and are building the problem-solving skills needed to find answers to any questions themselves.
 

Myth #8: Tutoring Is Only For Young Students

From the early learning years to high school, tutoring is helpful for students of all ages.

There is always an opportunity for students to learn and grow. Whether it is developing fundamental skills like reading and writing or preparing for college, there is a tutoring program that suits the needs of any student at any age.
 

Help Your Child Reach His Or Her Academic Potential

Don’t let the myths about tutoring stand in the way of your child’s academic potential. Tutoring is an invaluable tool to help students succeed in many areas regardless of their age, learning style, or schedule.

Contact us today to discover how tutoring can help your child succeed in school and beyond.