In a classroom with an 18.9:1 student-teacher ratio, teachers must balance the needs of many learners simultaneously. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows tutors to identify specific barriers to learning, adjust explanations and strategies in real-time, and use multisensory or alternative approaches that work best for that individual student. This targeted support often leads to faster skill development and increased confidence.

The first session is typically an assessment and planning meeting where the tutor learns about the student's learning difference, current academic challenges, strengths, and goals. The tutor will observe how the student approaches problems, ask questions about previous strategies that have worked, and begin building rapport. This information helps create a customized tutoring plan tailored to the student's needs.

While tutors cannot formally recommend accommodations (that requires school evaluation and IEP/504 plan meetings), they can help students develop strategies that align with their approved accommodations and teach skills that support academic success. Tutors also help students practice with the specific tools and formats they'll use on tests, building confidence and competence with their accommodations.

Many students with learning differences have experienced repeated academic struggle or comparison to peers, which can erode confidence. Personalized tutoring celebrates small wins, focuses on growth rather than deficits, and helps students understand that their learning difference is about how they learn—not how capable they are. As students experience success with tailored strategies, their confidence and willingness to tackle challenging material typically grow significantly.

Yes, tutors work across all subjects and grade levels, with many specializing in areas where learning differences most commonly create challenges—like reading and writing for dyslexia, or math for dyscalculia. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who have both subject expertise and experience supporting students with specific learning differences, ensuring instruction addresses both the academic content and the learning barrier.

Progress looks different for every student and goes beyond standardized test scores. Tutors track improvements like increased reading fluency, improved problem-solving strategies, better organization skills, reduced anxiety around academics, or stronger performance on classroom assignments. Regular check-ins with the student and parent help ensure tutoring is moving toward meaningful, real-world goals.

Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors for students in Reno who have experience supporting learning differences. Share details about your student's learning difference, current academic challenges, and goals, and we'll match you with a tutor who's a good fit. Most students can begin personalized instruction within days, giving your student the targeted support they need to succeed.