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“JUST THE FACTS, MA’AM.” — COMMON TUTORING MYTHS, PT. 4

November 6, 2017

There are so many myths and misconceptions out there about tutoring. If you are searching for a tutor, I feel it is important that you have a better understanding about tutoring and how it works. Whether you decide to choose North Coast Education Services or another company, you should be well-informed. You need to know just the facts!


We will be addressing common myths about tutoring and academic support throughout the coming weeks. We hope you will find the information helpful and beneficial as you continue your search!

Have a question about tutoring? (It may be a myth.) Let us know in the comments and we’ll address it in an upcoming post!

Here are today’s three myths:

1. “My child doesn’t ask for help, so he must not need it.”

Often the most struggling students are too afraid to admit they have a problem. They are embarrassed to talk because they think people will be disappointed or think less of them. If your child simply says that school is “fine”, they may be having a difficult time in class. Ask open-ended questions and talk to the teacher. Tutoring or “coaching” may help them find success.

2. “If I hire a tutor, my child is guaranteed to pass her class.”

When you hire a tutor, you are hiring support for your child. Your tutor cannot complete the homework, participate in class, or take the exam. That is your child’s responsibility. The best way to guarantee success is to keep your child engaged in between sessions. Don’t wait for the tutor to come back to review chemistry problems. Remind your child to reread her notes and help her practice with flashcards. Continued support will help her succeed.

3. “My child will feel dumb if I hire a tutor for him.”

Don’t use the term “tutor”. Instead, use the word “coach”. Say, “Your coach is coming to encourage you and help you succeed!” Also, reiterate to your child that having someone come help shows that he wants to learn.

Your question may have already been answered! Here are tutoring myths we have already discussed:


  • “If we’re looking for a tutor, my child’s teacher must be terrible.”
  • “The best tutors must be current or retired teachers.”
  • “Tutoring takes too long.”
  • “My child doesn’t need a tutor unless she’s failing her class.”
  • “If my child gets a tutor, he will immediately be labeled.”
  • “Tutoring is expensive.”
  • “Tutors are only for kids.”
  • “Schools look down on students who have a tutor.”
  • “Group tutoring is just as effective as one-on-one tutoring.”
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