Think Online Tutoring Can't Build Relationships?

Think Online Tutoring Can't Build Relationships?

Here's How My Students Stay Connected and Succeed!

Many parents want in-person tutoring because they worry that online tutoring lacks the personal connection that their child needs to thrive. But after eight years of teaching online, I can confidently say that the bonds I build with my students are just as strong—if not stronger—than in-person connections. I am able to learn about their latest adventures, problems that they may have, new books they are reading, and many other areas of their lives. They receive my undivided attention because they are the only student that I am focusing on during their class time. 

Let me show you how online tutoring can create lasting relationships and lead to remarkable success in reading.

Building Strong Relationships Online

I often hear from parents that you can’t build a relationship with a tutor online. However, I have found that I have developed deep, meaningful, long-lasting relationships with my students. When they finish their classes with me, they are sad that they won’t have them anymore and often keep in touch long after our tutoring time has ended. 

I make it a priority to learn about my students and build rapport with them during our lessons so that they are willing to try and work hard in class. This helps them build confidence and a strong relationship that leads to their success. 

Many of my former students continue to reach out just to let me know how they are doing and to see how I am doing. Some of them join a one-time class or book club so that they can continue to have classes with me even though they no longer need as much reading practice as they did when they began tutoring. My involvement in online writing groups has shown me that online relationships can be just as close as in-person ones, often surprising those who are new to this space.

Engaging and Interactive Sessions

Another misconception is that online sessions can't keep students engaged. However, I have learned and used many different ways to keep my students focused and learning during my thousands of online classes. I give my students choices whenever possible. I let them choose which book they would like to read to practice the phonics or reading skill that they are working on. I also write books based on their interests as much as possible. Occasionally my dog will visit at the end of class if they are doing a good job or they get to see a picture from one of my trips. 

My students are also asked to make connections between the material and their own lives which helps to make class more relevant and interesting. I add some reward slides or surprise props to give them some positive reinforcement and keep them focused. 

 I incorporate numerous activities to keep my students engaged in what they are learning. Sometimes they use dough, markers, or magnetic letters to practice spelling words. I also use several spelling activities that require them to move while practicing. My younger students sing songs to practice letter sounds. 

If one of my students is starting to lose focus, I adjust quickly and bring out some puppets or have a quick brain break. One of my students had a jumping break halfway through class to use some energy and then he was able to refocus and continue learning. My goal is always to help my students learn in a way that works for them and I adjust when needed. 

Handling Technology Concerns

Tech issues are another common concern for parents considering online tutoring. There are many ways to make sure that there aren’t technology issues. I have three different internet providers, and my laptop is connected to my router with an ethernet cord. This helps eliminate technology issues that I may have. 

My families have used different ways to handle technology problems that may occur. One way is to make sure that all devices are charged before class so that they are not connected during class. Staying close to the router also helps if the internet is not as strong during class. If there is an internet issue during class, make sure that others are not streaming or using their devices during class. Sometimes my students have had class on a phone when other devices aren’t working. 

 I have taught thousands of classes online and technology problems are rare, especially when the students are at home. Most technology issues occur when students are trying to have class in the car or other places. When there are technology issues, we do our best to find a quick solution. 

Proven Effectiveness of Online Tutoring

Even though I assure parents that online classes can be even more effective than in-person classes, some still worry that these classes will not help their neurodivergent children with autism, ADHD, or speech concerns.

But the results speak for themselves. I have helped many neurodivergent students learn to read online. I do this by adjusting my lessons and watching them closely to see if they need a short break or a different activity. I also change activities if I know that they are having a more challenging day than usual. 

I have had many students start with little or no letter knowledge and within a year they were reading chapter books. These success stories aren’t just exceptions - they are the norm in my classes. You can see some of these stories in other blog posts. 

Why Choose Online Tutoring

Online tutoring can offer the same, if not better, opportunities for building strong and engaging relationships. This form of tutoring is more flexible for you and can deliver the reading results that you want for your child. 

I am able to give my students personalized attention, create interactive activities that hold their attention, and build rapport with them so that they are willing to try and succeed. I am committed to ensuring that every one of my students becomes successful readers. 

If you’ve been hesitant about online tutoring, I encourage you to give it a try—you might be surprised at just how effective and fulfilling it can be.