There are thousands of different after-school tutoring resources that many students use to either help them with their current studies or enable them to get ahead of their educational level. The question is whether these programs help the student or are a waste of time. 

Some well–known tutoring programs are Kumon, Mathnasium, and Sylvan. There are many more resources, but these are some of the most commonly used ones. 

All of the programs provide individualized attention for the students, and have tailored lessons that match up with the students’ needs and regular practice.

The difference between regular classes during school and after-school programs is the varying systems utilized. In programs like Kumon or Mathnasium, students are able to receive one-on-one lessons with qualified teachers. This arrangement allows students to have more attention and learn all of the concepts well. 

Most tutoring programs have qualified and experienced instructors who can provide guidance and support. These instructors can clarify doubts, explain difficult concepts, and offer valuable tips and tricks. Having someone readily available to answer questions and provide feedback can boost a student’s confidence and motivation, making the learning process more enjoyable. 

Additionally, many of these afterschool programs assess a student’s current Math and English abilities, and tailor the curriculum to their specific needs. This is another difference from school; students are able to work and focus on areas where they need the most help and can work at their own pace. 

A lot of students, especially in elementary and middle school, also find lessons at school too simple for their level. Working just a few more hours at an after-school program can help the student get ahead on their studies and be prepared for future lessons at school. 

As a result, they can gain a deeper understanding of the concepts and improve their problem-solving skills. 

Another advantage of tutoring resources after-school involves reiteration of understanding. In Mathnasium and Kumon particularly, they emphasize repetitive practice to reinforce concepts and improve fluency. Students then are able to have a solid grasp of both Mathematical and English concepts, which can lead to improved performance in Math and English classes at school. 

A potential downside is the cost of these resources. After-school tutoring programs can definitely be on the more expensive side, and it is important for parents to consider if the benefits outweigh the financial investment. 

Moreover, not every student’s learning style is the same. A student could work well in a traditional classroom setting, while others work better with different approaches to learning. This decision relies solely on the student’s personal taste to academics

I personally find it easier to focus when in a one-on-one setting, since there are no distractions, and I can receive more attention. 

In the end, after-school tutoring resources can be worth it for students who need additional support in Math or English. The individualized attention, regular practice, and guidance offered by these programs can help students improve their math skills and confidence.