Question 1

What math skills should my child be learning in 1st grade?

Accepted Answer

First graders typically focus on building foundational number sense—understanding numbers 0-20, counting, and one-to-one correspondence. They also learn basic addition and subtraction within 10, begin recognizing simple patterns, and start measuring and telling time to the hour. The goal is to help students move from counting on their fingers to understanding that numbers represent quantities and can be combined and separated.

Question 2

My child struggles with word problems. How can tutoring help?

Accepted Answer

Word problems require students to translate words into math actions—a skill that takes practice and confidence. A tutor can help your child break down problems into smaller steps, identify key information, and choose the right operation. Through personalized instruction, students learn to visualize problems using drawings or manipulatives, which builds both understanding and problem-solving strategies they can use independently.

Question 3

Why does my child's teacher emphasize 'showing work' in 1st grade math?

Accepted Answer

Showing work helps teachers understand how your child is thinking, not just whether they got the right answer. In 1st grade, this might mean drawing pictures, using tally marks, or writing simple equations. A tutor can help your child develop clear ways to explain their thinking, which deepens their own understanding and makes it easier for teachers to spot where they might need extra support.

Question 4

My child seems anxious about math. Can a tutor help build confidence?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Math anxiety at this age often stems from feeling rushed or confused, but personalized tutoring creates a low-pressure space to explore concepts at your child's own pace. Tutors celebrate small wins, use games and manipulatives to make learning fun, and help students see that mistakes are part of learning. This positive experience early on builds confidence and a healthier relationship with math.

Question 5

What happens in the first tutoring session for 1st grade math?

Accepted Answer

The first session is typically a chance for the tutor to get to know your child—their strengths, challenges, and learning style. They'll work through a few math problems together to understand where your child is confident and where they need support. This helps the tutor create a personalized plan focused on your child's specific needs, whether that's building number sense, tackling word problems, or gaining confidence.

Question 6

How does tutoring help my child see patterns and connections in math?

Accepted Answer

Young learners often see math as isolated facts to memorize, but tutors help them discover patterns—like how 3+2 and 2+3 both equal 5, or how counting by 2s creates a pattern. By making these connections explicit, students develop deeper conceptual understanding rather than relying on memorization. This foundation makes future math concepts like multiplication and fractions much easier to grasp.

Question 7

Will the tutor know what my child's school is teaching?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors experienced in 1st grade math curriculum and common textbooks used in Queens schools. When you share information about your child's school or textbook, tutors align their instruction with what's being taught in class, reinforcing classroom learning and filling any gaps. This coordination ensures your child gets consistent, complementary support.

Question 8

How often should my child have tutoring sessions to see progress?

Accepted Answer

Most students benefit from 1-2 sessions per week, though the ideal frequency depends on your child's needs and learning pace. Even one session weekly can make a meaningful difference when combined with practice at home. A tutor can help you create a plan and suggest simple activities to reinforce skills between sessions, so your child gets consistent reinforcement and builds momentum toward their goals.

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