Students with learning differences often struggle with reading fluency and comprehension, math fact automaticity and problem-solving, executive function skills like organization and time management, and processing speed in keeping up with classroom pace. These challenges can compound over time, affecting confidence and engagement across subjects.

Personalized tutoring addresses these challenges through explicit instruction, structured practice, and strategy-building tailored to your student's profile. Tutors can use evidence-based techniques like multisensory reading approaches, manipulatives and visual models for math, graphic organizers for executive function, and spaced repetition to build automaticity. By working 1-on-1, tutors can also identify where the real breakdown is happening—whether it's decoding, comprehension, or motivation—and address the root cause rather than just the symptom.

Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who have specific expertise in supporting students with learning differences, including ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and processing disorders. When matching you with a tutor, we consider both their background working with students who have similar profiles and their knowledge of evidence-based instructional techniques.

Many tutors in the Boston area have certifications or specialized training in areas like Orton-Gillingham reading instruction, multisensory math, or executive function coaching. During your initial conversation, you can discuss your student's specific needs, what strategies have worked in the past, and what approaches you're hoping to build on. The right tutor becomes a collaborative partner who understands both the learning difference and your student's individual strengths.

Progress for students with learning differences shows up in multiple ways: improved reading fluency and comprehension scores, faster and more accurate math computation, better test performance, increased independence with homework, stronger organizational skills, and most importantly, increased confidence and willingness to try challenging tasks.

Tutors typically track progress through curriculum-based measurements, work samples, and benchmark assessments aligned with your student's grade level and IEP goals (if applicable). You should see concrete improvements within 4-6 weeks of consistent tutoring, such as reading more words per minute, solving problems with fewer errors, or completing assignments with less frustration. Regular communication with your tutor helps you monitor progress and adjust strategies as needed.

Yes. Tutors can support the goals outlined in your student's IEP or 504 plan by using compatible strategies and reinforcing skills targeted in special education services. If your student's school team has identified specific areas for improvement—like reading comprehension, math problem-solving, or executive function—tutoring can provide additional, focused practice outside the school day.

The most effective approach involves communication between the tutor and your student's school team. Tutors can share progress updates, align their instruction with what's being taught at school, and reinforce accommodations and modifications your student uses in the classroom. This coordinated effort accelerates progress and helps your student apply skills across different settings.

The best approach depends on your student's situation and goals. Building on strengths can boost confidence and motivation, which is especially important for students with learning differences who may feel discouraged. However, addressing significant gaps in foundational skills—like reading or math—often needs to happen early so students can access grade-level content in other subjects.

Many tutors recommend a balanced approach: target the most critical skill gap with explicit, intensive instruction, while also incorporating activities that leverage your student's interests and strengths. For example, a student who loves science but struggles with reading could work with a tutor on comprehension skills using science-based texts. This keeps motivation high while making real progress on the underlying learning challenge.

For students with learning differences, consistency is key. Most tutors recommend 2-3 sessions per week for measurable progress, though the ideal frequency depends on the severity of the learning difference and your student's goals. Shorter, frequent sessions often work better than long, infrequent ones because they take advantage of spaced repetition and keep skills fresh.

Timeline for improvement varies widely. Some students show noticeable changes in confidence and engagement within 4-6 weeks. Significant improvements in foundational skills like reading fluency or math automaticity typically emerge over 3-6 months of consistent tutoring. Keep in mind that students with learning differences may need ongoing support to maintain gains and build on them, rather than a single intensive block of tutoring. Your tutor can help you develop a sustainable plan that fits your family's needs and budget.