Every kid is different. As parents, we know that even between siblings, what will work for one will lead to disaster with the other. This is why it’s so important to ensure that you’ve selected a perfect-fit tutor for your child. While expertise in the subject matter is important, there are many other factors that can lead to a successful – or not so successful – relationship. At Aristotle Circle, we have an expansive network that encompasses a variety of professionals, each with their own unique teaching style. Our individualized service allows us to get to know you and your student so that we can best fit your needs. We strive to match your student not only with someone who can support them academically, but who can also act as a mentor. So, as a parent, what should you be looking for to determine fit?

1. Experience.

Does the tutor you are considering actually have experience teaching this subject, or prepping students for this test? We won’t name names, but we’ve seen other tutoring companies attempt to pass off tutors with knowledge in one subject (e.g. the Independent School Entrance Exam, or ISEE) as experts in another (e.g. the Test for Admissions into Catholic High Schools, or TACHS). Red flags include: generalizing statements such as “These types of tests all include the same material,” not knowing the differences between the tests, and not being able to tell you when, where, or how you can register for them.

2. Personality.

Bringing your child to spend time with an authority figure, like a tutor or teacher, without knowing them can be nerve wracking. If your student has learning differences or special education needs, the risk can feel even more extreme, as your student may have a tenuous relationship with school and academic work. Naturally, you want to find someone who will help them develop a positive attitude toward the work at hand, all while learning the material efficiently and effectively. Different students have different needs, so this assessment is a bit more personal. If your child needs executive functioning help, you might want a tutor with a type-A, organized personality that can teach your kiddo tips and tricks to keep them on track. If you’ve got a creative kid that doesn’t do well with jargon, you might be looking for someone who is able to communicate in a way that they understand.

3. Sleazy sales tactics.

If someone is pressuring you to purchase a tutoring package before “prices increase in X number of days,” “time expires,” or “the offer runs out,” then they are taking you for a ride. If they require you to pay thousands of dollars before even speaking to a tutor, they’re hedging their bets. As we’ve mentioned, choosing who will work one-on-one with your child is a decision that should not be taken lightly. At Aristotle Circle, we understand that these decisions are often made together as a family, and that scheduling is not easy. For kids in sports and other activities, it can be tough to hammer out a steady availability ahead of time. This is why at AC, our quotes are comprehensive, tutor profiles are highly detailed, and our in-person and online pricing is the same. You are never charged for a session or package until after you’ve met with your tutor and completed the first lesson.

When you’re happy, we’re happy.

Our top priority is student success. While getting better grades and test scores is a part of that mission, we also strive for students to leave their sessions feeling confident, empowered, and capable. Our tutors focus on the whole child; they don’t simply teach the material. They offer strategies for future success, including helping students with time management, project planning, and skill-building so they can take what they’ve learned into their future.

Looking for a tutor?

Aristotle Circle can help. Our expansive network of professionals includes subject, homework help, test prep, writing, and portfolio experts at a variety of price points. Our tutors are experts in entrance and subject examinations such as: GMAT, GRE, SAT, ACT, AP, IB, SSAT, ISEE, SHSAT, WPPSI, AABL, CTP, and more. Give us a call at 212-360-2301 or visit us online at www.aristotlecircle.com to get a free quote.

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