Reading struggles in elementary school often stem from gaps in phonics, decoding, or comprehension strategies—and these challenges compound if not addressed early. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows a tutor to diagnose exactly where the breakdown is occurring and provide targeted practice with appropriate-level texts.

Tutors work at your child's pace, using methods like repeated reading, guided practice with decoding, and comprehension questioning that classroom instruction may not allow time for. Research on 1-on-1 instruction shows significant gains when students receive focused, diagnostic teaching—particularly for students who are behind grade-level expectations.

Elementary math follows a deliberate progression: early grades focus on counting, number sense, and basic operations; middle elementary (grades 2-3) introduces multi-digit addition and subtraction; upper elementary (grades 4-5) moves into multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals. Each concept builds on the previous one, so gaps early on can create struggles later.

If your student is missing foundational number sense or struggling with a specific operation, a tutor can fill those gaps before they impact more complex topics. Personalized tutoring allows for concrete, hands-on practice and repetition that reinforces understanding rather than just procedural steps.

In a Boston classroom with an average 11.2:1 ratio, teachers are managing diverse learning levels and paces. Even excellent teachers have limited time for one-on-one diagnostic work. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction offers your student undivided attention, customized pacing, and targeted interventions based on their specific learning style and gaps.

Tutors can pause on confusing concepts, use multiple approaches to explain ideas, provide immediate feedback, and adjust difficulty in real-time. This targeted practice is especially valuable for students who need to catch up, accelerate, or work through specific skill gaps that affect confidence and progress.

Absolutely. Many elementary students benefit from support across reading, writing, and math—often because struggles in one area affect confidence in others. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who can provide personalized instruction in the subjects your child needs most.

Whether your student needs focused help in one subject or ongoing support across multiple areas, a tutor can create a learning plan tailored to their specific goals and pace. This flexibility allows your child to build skills where they're struggling while continuing to challenge them where they're strong.

Yes. Many families seek tutoring to prepare for grade transitions (especially moving to middle school), to accelerate advanced learners, or to build confidence heading into a new school year. Personalized instruction is ideal for both catch-up and enrichment—a tutor can work at whatever level and pace your student needs.

Whether your child needs to solidify skills before a transition or is ready to explore more advanced concepts, a tutor adapts instruction to meet them where they are and help them reach their specific goals.

Varsity Tutors connects families with expert tutors who have experience working with elementary students and understand the specific challenges your child is facing. When you describe what your student needs—whether it's reading support, math help, or enrichment—we match you with a tutor whose background and teaching style align with your child's learning needs.

The right fit matters, especially at the elementary level. Look for tutors who are patient, adaptable, and skilled at making learning engaging. A good tutor will communicate progress clearly and help your child build both skills and confidence.