Students often struggle with regrouping (borrowing from the tens place), forget to regroup when needed, or subtract the smaller number from the larger digit regardless of position. Another frequent error is misaligning numbers on the page, leading to incorrect place value calculations. Expert tutors can identify exactly where a student's understanding breaks down and provide targeted practice to build confidence and accuracy.

Most students begin learning basic subtraction concepts in kindergarten or first grade, starting with simple "take away" problems using objects or pictures. By second grade, students typically work with two-digit subtraction and regrouping. If your child is falling behind grade-level expectations in Tulsa schools, connecting with a tutor early can prevent gaps from widening and build foundational math confidence.

During the first session, a tutor will assess your child's current understanding—where they're strong and where they need support. They'll work through a few subtraction problems together to identify specific challenges, whether that's regrouping, number sense, or procedural steps. This diagnostic approach helps the tutor create a personalized plan that builds on what your child already knows.

Use real-world situations like making change, sharing snacks, or counting down to events to make subtraction meaningful. Start with concrete objects (blocks, coins, counters) before moving to written problems, and practice one strategy thoroughly before introducing new concepts. Consistent, short practice sessions (10-15 minutes) with immediate feedback work better than long, frustrating drills—something a tutor can model and reinforce.

Regrouping is easier to understand with visual tools: use base-10 blocks, place value charts, or drawings to show how "borrowing" from the tens place gives you 10 more ones. The key is showing that 23 is the same as "1 ten and 13 ones"—the value doesn't change, just how it's grouped. Tutors use these concrete-to-abstract strategies to help students transition from manipulatives to mental math and written procedures.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in elementary math and understand how to teach subtraction conceptually, not just procedurally. When you describe your child's specific challenges—whether it's regrouping, confidence, or keeping up with grade-level pace—you'll get matched with someone experienced in addressing those exact needs. The tutor will work at your child's speed and adjust based on what's working.

Many students show increased confidence and accuracy within 3-4 weeks of consistent tutoring, especially once they understand the "why" behind regrouping and place value. Mastery develops over time with practice, but personalized instruction accelerates progress by targeting exactly where a student is stuck. Regular tutoring sessions combined with guided home practice create momentum that compounds over a semester.