A tutor can change how a child feels about English. Choose carefully. The best teacher is not always the one with the most certificates. Look for four things.
Check the speaking
Listen to the tutor speak. You do not need a perfect accent. You need clear, kind English.
Can your child understand them easily?
Watch the first lesson
Ask to sit in once. Look at three things: does the child speak? Does the tutor listen? Is there a plan?
Ask about the goal
A good tutor asks why. A weak tutor opens a book on page one.
What can my child do in three months?
Ask about homework
Small and regular is better than a big weekly packet.
Ask about progress
Ask how you will know it is working. A good tutor has an answer.
We will record her once a month.
Trust the child
After two or three lessons, ask your child one question.
Do you like this teacher?
Words to remember
- tutor — a teacher who helps one student
- clear — easy to understand
- goal — something you want to finish
- progress — movement towards something better
Questions & answers
Q: Does the tutor need to be a native speaker?
No. A clear, patient teacher is better than a fast native speaker your child cannot follow.
Q: How much should lessons cost?
It depends on your city. Pay for a teacher who listens, not for a famous name.
Q: How many lessons a week?
One or two. More is tiring for a child.
Q: What if my child does not like the tutor?
Change after three lessons. A child who does not feel safe will not speak.
Q: Online or in person?
Both work for older children. Younger children often do better in person.