Expert tutors teach proven comprehension strategies like predicting, visualizing, asking questions while reading, and making connections to prior knowledge. Rather than simply assigning more reading, tutors work with students to actively engage with text through guided discussion and targeted practice. This personalized approach helps students move from passive reading to truly understanding and enjoying what they read.

Tutors assess your child's current skills through observation, informal reading inventories, and discussion about their strengths and challenges. They consider factors like word recognition, fluency, comprehension, and confidence to match your student with appropriately challenging texts. This ensures your child is engaged and making progress without feeling overwhelmed or unchallenged.

Yes—phonics and fluency are foundational skills that tutors address systematically, especially for younger elementary students or those who need to catch up. Tutors use evidence-based methods like repeated reading, word family practice, and decodable texts to build automaticity and confidence. With consistent, personalized practice, students typically see measurable improvements in both speed and accuracy.

The first session focuses on getting to know your child and understanding their reading history, interests, and specific challenges. Tutors may do some informal assessment—like listening to your student read aloud or discussing a story—to gauge current skills and identify starting points. This foundation helps tutors create a personalized plan that builds on your child's strengths and addresses their needs.

Progress shows up in multiple ways: improved fluency and confidence when reading aloud, better comprehension of grade-level texts, increased enthusiasm for reading, and measurable gains on school assessments. Tutors track progress through informal observations, reading records, and regular check-ins with you about what you're noticing at home. Most students show noticeable improvement within a few weeks of consistent tutoring.

Varsity Tutors connects students with expert tutors who have strong backgrounds in reading instruction, education, or related fields. Many have teaching experience, training in reading science, or specialized knowledge of literacy development. Tutors are matched based on their expertise and teaching style, ensuring a good fit for your child's learning needs.

The ideal frequency depends on your child's specific needs and goals. Some students benefit from weekly sessions to build consistent momentum, while others do well with bi-weekly tutoring combined with practice at home. Your tutor can recommend a schedule based on your child's progress and your family's needs, and you can adjust as your student improves.