Many students struggle with regrouping (borrowing), especially when zeros are involved or when subtracting from larger numbers. Understanding when and how to regroup, and keeping track of place value during the process, are frequent sticking points. Some students also confuse subtraction with addition or struggle to visualize what subtraction represents conceptually. A tutor can identify exactly where a student's understanding breaks down and build skills from that point forward.

Fluency develops through consistent, targeted practice—typically 10-15 minutes of focused work several times per week, combined with real-world applications. The key is quality over quantity; practicing the same mistake repeatedly won't help. Spaced repetition (revisiting skills over time) and varied problem types help solidify understanding. A tutor can design a practice schedule tailored to your child's pace and ensure each problem builds on previous learning rather than just repeating the same patterns.

Students typically begin learning subtraction in first grade, but readiness varies. A solid grasp of addition, number recognition up to 20, and understanding of "taking away" concepts are good indicators of readiness. If your child can count backwards and understands one-to-one correspondence, they're likely ready to start. If your child is struggling, a tutor can assess their foundational skills and determine whether they need to strengthen number sense or place value understanding before moving forward with subtraction strategies.

Effective strategies include counting on (starting from the smaller number and counting up to the larger), using number lines, breaking numbers apart by place value, and recognizing related addition facts. Different students benefit from different approaches—some are visual learners who thrive with number lines, while others prefer manipulatives or mental math strategies. A tutor can teach multiple strategies and help your child discover which ones work best for their learning style, building confidence and flexibility in problem-solving.

A tutor provides personalized 1-on-1 instruction tailored to your child's specific needs, whether they're struggling with regrouping, conceptual understanding, or building speed and accuracy. Tutors can diagnose gaps in foundational knowledge, break down complex procedures into manageable steps, and use multiple teaching methods to match your child's learning style. Regular sessions with consistent feedback help students build both competence and confidence, turning subtraction from a frustrating challenge into a skill they can rely on.

Yes, Varsity Tutors connects students in Albuquerque with expert tutors who specialize in elementary math, including subtraction. Whether your child is just beginning to learn subtraction or needs to strengthen their skills, you can get matched with a tutor who understands the Albuquerque school curriculum and has experience helping students master this foundational skill. The tutoring process is flexible and personalized to fit your family's schedule and your child's learning pace.

During the first session, a tutor will assess your child's current understanding of subtraction—what they know well and where they're struggling. They'll ask questions, work through a few problems together, and listen carefully to understand your child's thinking process. This diagnostic approach helps the tutor create a customized plan for future sessions, focusing on the specific areas that need the most support. You'll also have a chance to discuss your goals and any concerns you have about your child's progress.