Remedial Tutoring

The term “remedial” stems from the term “to remedy”. This is not the implication that the deficits the child presents due to developmental and learning disabilities can be cured, but rather the assistance to manage these life-impacting symptom. The true aim of remedial tutoring to improve core learning skills to the point where learning and completing daily tasks is not a debilitating process for the child. Remedial teaching can take place one-on-one, or in small groups. 

This is not only a process of teaching, but also the focus of teaching essential developmental skills that may not come naturally to the child. Remedial tutoring is a one-on-one teaching method for children who may need additional educational support. Remedial tutors range from being very hands on- seeing the child frequently to recap what they have been learning in other avenues of their education- or used as an additional support tool when needed. 

Remedial tutoring is one of the many holistic tools available that can better the quality of life for the child with the developmental condition. 

Unlike occupational therapy, there is focus on motor skills, coordination, muscle development, and generalised life skills, but it is important to note that both these practices develop the areas of the brain that are responsible for structure, organising information, pre-handwriting/handwriting skills, comprehension, language, and numeracy skills.

The remedial tutor is frequently in contact with the child’s teacher in order to clearly understand which areas of the child’s education must be focused on. It also allows the tutor to know when certain class work needs to be caught up on. The tutor can help the learner understand what’s expected of them academically and help them understand the steps and goals needed for them to complete their tasks and reach their potential. 

For older children or teenagers, remedial tutoring can also include teaching the child how to study, how to summarise, revise, and take their examinations or tests. The tutor may also be present during the child’s examination to either help them with the reading or writing aspects of taking the test. The tutor may supervise an examination in which the student has extra-time needs. 

When searching for a remedial tutor, there are some things to look for, and some things to avoid. Avoid tutors that believe that remedial tutoring can “cure” the child from their disorder. The disorder will always be present in the child’s life, but the tutor must understand that the goal is to teach the child fundamental learning skills for them exist and learn in a way that does not constantly cause excessive distress. 

Avoid tutors that use punishment to “fix” mistakes. Rather, find a tutor that focuses on firmly correcting the child’s error by making them aware of the mistake, letting them know it is okay to make mistakes, and encouraging them to try again.