Word problems require students to read, understand language, and translate that into a math operation—which is a big leap for 1st graders still developing both reading and math skills. Many children can solve simple addition problems but get confused when the same concept is wrapped in a story. Personalized tutoring helps by breaking word problems into smaller steps, teaching students to identify key information, and building confidence through practice with problems tailored to their level.

Showing work helps teachers understand a student's thinking and catches mistakes early. In 1st grade, this might look like drawing pictures, using tally marks, or writing out simple number sentences. You can encourage this by asking "How did you figure that out?" and letting your child draw or write their process before giving the answer. Tutors can model different strategies for showing work and help your child develop habits that make math thinking visible and checkable.

Math anxiety in 1st grade often stems from feeling rushed, confused, or compared to peers. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction removes that pressure by letting students work at their own pace, ask questions freely, and celebrate small wins. Tutors create a low-stress environment where mistakes are learning opportunities, which helps children build confidence and develop a positive relationship with math that lasts far beyond 1st grade.

Chicago Public Schools and other districts in the area use different math curricula, and Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who understand these approaches. Whether your child's school uses Everyday Math, Eureka Math, or another program, tutors can align their instruction with what's being taught in class, reinforce the same strategies teachers use, and help bridge any gaps between home and school learning.

The first session is about understanding where your child is and what they need. Tutors will assess your child's current skills, listen to your concerns about specific challenges, and get a sense of your child's learning style and interests. From there, they'll create a personalized plan focused on building confidence and addressing the areas where your child needs the most support.

For 1st graders, consistency matters more than frequency. Many students benefit from one or two sessions per week, which gives them time to practice what they've learned between sessions without overwhelming their schedule. Your tutor can recommend a frequency based on your child's needs and progress, and you can always adjust as your child gains confidence and skills.

Pattern recognition is key to mathematical thinking, and 1st graders benefit from explicit instruction in spotting patterns—whether it's counting by 2s, recognizing shapes, or understanding that 3+2 and 2+3 equal the same thing. Tutors use visual tools, manipulatives, and repeated practice to help students discover these patterns themselves, which builds deeper understanding and makes math feel less like isolated facts and more like a connected system.