Expert tutors work with students on foundational skills like decoding and sight word recognition, while also building comprehension strategies such as predicting, questioning, and summarizing. Tutors adapt their approach based on each student's learning style and pace, which is especially valuable given Providence's 14.3:1 student-teacher ratio in schools. Regular, focused practice with personalized feedback helps students develop fluency and a genuine love of reading.

The first session focuses on understanding your child's current reading level, strengths, and specific challenges. Tutors typically assess phonics knowledge, fluency, and comprehension to create a personalized plan. This initial assessment helps establish realistic goals and ensures the tutoring approach aligns with your child's needs and learning style.

Tutors use research-backed strategies like guided questioning, visualization, and text-to-self connections to help students understand and engage with stories. They teach students to identify main ideas, make predictions, and discuss characters and themes in age-appropriate ways. As students progress, tutors introduce basic literary analysis skills that prepare them for more advanced reading in middle school.

Tutors diagnose the root cause of reading difficulties—whether it's phonemic awareness, decoding, fluency, or comprehension—and create a targeted intervention plan. With consistent 1-on-1 instruction, students can make accelerated progress because tutors adjust pacing and intensity based on what's working. Many students show noticeable improvement within weeks when they receive personalized attention focused on their specific gaps.

Early elementary (K-2) focuses on phonics, sight words, and beginning fluency. Upper elementary (3-5) emphasizes fluency, vocabulary, comprehension of longer texts, and basic literary analysis. Tutors understand these grade-level benchmarks and can help you understand where your child stands and what skills to prioritize next. They also work with students who are reading above or below grade level to ensure appropriate challenge and growth.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who have strong backgrounds in elementary education, reading instruction, or related fields. Many tutors have experience with evidence-based reading programs and understand how to diagnose and address common reading difficulties. When you connect with a tutor, you can review their background and experience to ensure they're a great fit for your child's needs.

Tutors track progress through regular assessment of fluency (words read correctly per minute), comprehension (ability to answer questions and discuss texts), and decoding skills. You'll see tangible improvements like reading longer books independently, asking questions about stories, and expressing confidence. Tutors share progress updates and help set new goals as your child advances, so you stay informed every step of the way.