How to Protect the (Tutoring) Environment

When it comes to conducting a successful tutoring session, the physical environment can be just as important as the academic subject matter. Certain environments are conducive to learning, while others are detrimental. While environment is particularly important for students who have learning disabilities (such as ADHD), it has an impact on all learners. Before the new school year begins — and brings plenty of busy days with it — ask yourself the following questions about your child's tutoring environment.

Is this space solely dedicated to learning? We all take cues from our environment. A comfortable couch placed in view of a television signals "relaxation." A soft bed piled high with pillows signals "rest." You want a tutoring environment that signals "focus" and "success," so avoid too-casual spots and opt instead for a neat, distraction-free environment. This could be an office desk, but it can also be a kitchen table — as long as there is plenty of room to work and no background noise (in other words, don't plan a tutoring session in the kitchen while other family members are chatting and grabbing snacks!), any space can work.

Can this space be kept free of distractions? One of the obstacles to in-home tutoring MNsessions is the presence of distractions. Distractions draw focus away from the learning process and devalue a tutoring session's worth. For this reason, never try to hold a tutoring session in a room where a television or radio is on. Even if the TV or radio is just "on in the background," it can create a serious distraction. (There are, of course, a few exceptions, such as students who learn well when classical music is playing in the background). Distractions also come in human form; ask other family members to keep interruptions to a minimum when tutoring is taking place.

Is the space set up for success? In other words, is everything that you need for a great tutoring session easily within reach? Make sure to keep the tutoring space well-stocked with everything your child needs to do her work: pens, paper, a calculator, etc. When everything is on-hand, there's no need to wander into another room (a distracting activity in itself) to get supplies.

Does this space take the learner's individual needs into consideration? This last question is particularly important if your child has a learning disability. For a child with ADHD, for example, sitting near a window might lead to unnecessary distraction. So, too, might having extraneous materials on the desk. Consider your child's individual learning style when you set up the tutoring space. If you hire an outside tutor, take time to share what you know about your child's learning preferences and behaviors.

Many tutors are experts not only in their academic subject areas, but also in establishing great learning environments for students. You can find a tutor here.