"As a certified Special Education Teacher with a Master's degree, I consider myself a "Tutoring Specialist" for Reading, Math, Writing at levels K - 12 and GED-Preparation.

I trust parents who observe some learning problems such as []"My child is slow to use phonics properly in his/her reading." or [] "My child needs help to use what he/she has read in order to complete an assignment or to pass a test" or [] "My child is just plain slow in reading; I consider her/him to be smart. But he/she needs to get on track for reading." For Math parents may recognize that []"My child does not really remember the basic facts; so he/she is 'falling behind;" or [] "My child is having trouble with fractions. The words they use to teacher him/her are so confusing." or [] "My child always gets stuck when the math problem states solve for the missing number; or when they substitute a letter as in pre-algebra." For tutoring in Writing, we form a team to go step-by-step through the process from empty paper to the final draft. With any grade level, and any subject matter, I make the experience FUN! I create board games and include silly activities such as "when you land on a certain spot of the board: Touch your knee to your nose. I am very serious about the preparation that I put into the lessons." I pay attention to details --about all the aspects of phonics --of comprehension, and --of organization. My written lesson plan is a product to show the parent my accountability. I use informal tests to pinpoint the student's area/s of need. I make notes to track the progress that he/she is making.

I am aware of some pitfalls of tutoring. To avoid them, I say to myself, "How would I feel if I were the parent and the tutor was working with my child?" Sometimes the plan/s need to be adjusted about 180 degrees. Sometimes the student will present behavioral problems. I will carefully prepare a reward system for the student to earn some "prize." I will be reasonable in this area so as not to be manipulated by the stude" less...