Back to School, Habits For Success

Back to School with Tutoring4Less: A Journey to Academic Excellence!

Back-to-school in Los Angeles is an exciting time for both parents and elementary students. While the summer sun continues to warm the city, it’s time to switch gears and prepare for the upcoming school year. As parents of elementary students, you’re tasked with a range of important responsibilities to ensure a smooth transition into this exciting phase.

As parents in Los Angeles, we have a lot to juggle: there are carpools to arrange, school testing to worry about, extracurricular activities to coordinate, and of course, making sure our kids are thriving in their education. The city’s diverse educational landscape offers a multitude of opportunities for growth and enrichment. As the back-to-school season kicks off, Tutoring4Less is excited to welcome students and parents to a new chapter of learning and growth. Today, we are sharing back-to-school tips to help your child have a successful school year. 

Establish Routines

Most elementary school age kids in Los Angeles have busy schedules. After a long day at school, there are sports, extracurricular activities, playdates, or after-school care. In Southern California, we also have extra time in traffic to contend with. 

However, children thrive on routines. A daily schedule benefits both younger and older children by providing a structured environment. Start adjusting their sleep schedules a week or two before school starts to ensure they get enough rest. Create a consistent morning and bedtime routine to help them transition smoothly. Remember that consistency is key. It might take some time for routines to become established habits, but the effort is well worth it. As your child experiences the benefits of these routines, they’ll likely become more engaged, focused, and emotionally resilient, both in school and in their daily life.

Create A Dedicated Homework Space

Crafting a dedicated study space for your kindergartener is a wonderful way to support their early learning journey. Even though your little one might not have a ton of homework in kindergarten, having a special space at home can still help them develop important study skills for the future. Discover a quiet corner or cozy spot where they can explore and learn without distractions. Ensure that the area is well-lit and comfortable, allowing them to focus on their activities. Keep their learning materials and supplies organized and easily accessible to encourage independence. Consider adding colorful decorations or playful elements that spark their imagination and make the space inviting. By creating a clutter-free and engaging study nook, you’re providing a nurturing environment where your kindergartener can thrive and develop essential skills that will set the foundation for their educational success.

Nurture Curiosity

Study habits for kindergarteners are not just about organization, it’s also about encouraging curiosity. Curiosity helps children be more observant and to think about things and try to figure them out. In one study, greater curiosity was associated with greater kindergarten reading and math academic achievement. By fostering curiosity in your kindergartener, you’re setting the stage for a lifelong love of learning. Embrace their natural wonder and provide a supportive environment that encourages exploration and growth. Here are some tips to encourage curiosity as a parent:

  • Encourage Questions: Welcome your child’s questions and be ready to answer them. Show enthusiasm for their curiosity and help them explore their interests.
  • Explore Together: Engage in activities that spark curiosity, such as nature walks, museum visits, or science experiments. Share the excitement of discovery with your child.
  • Read Aloud: Regularly read books together on a variety of subjects. This exposes your child to new ideas and encourages them to ask questions and learn more.
  • Hands-On Learning: Provide opportunities for hands-on exploration, like building with blocks, creating art, or simple science experiments. These activities allow them to learn through play.
  • Follow Their Lead: Pay attention to what interests your child and encourage them to delve deeper into those topics. This empowers them to take ownership of their learning.
  • Use Open-Ended Questions: Instead of giving direct answers, ask open-ended questions that encourage critical thinking and exploration. For example, “What do you think will happen if…?”

Make Sleep A Priority

Now, let’s talk about sleep and homework. 

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that kids aged 6–12 should aim for 9–12 hours of sleep a day, while teens aged 13–18 should get around 8–10 hours. Not getting enough shut-eye can lead to problems like obesity, diabetes, and even mood issues, says the CDC. Poor sleep could even affect reading skills, as research in the British Journal of Educational Psychology suggests. Children whose parents reported increased sleep-disordered breathing, daytime sleepiness, and a short time for children to fall asleep (which is generally associated with increased tiredness) had poorer performance on reading tasks for both words and nonwords.

You can help your child sleep better by sticking to a regular sleep schedule, both on school days and weekends. Keep their sleep space comfortable and calming – a tidy, dark room works wonders. And don’t forget the temperature – a cool 65 to 67 degrees is the sweet spot for a great night’s sleep.

Limit Screen Time (Yes, We Know It’s Hard)

We know it’s tough, especially with little ones, but cutting down on screen time is a good idea. It can help your child sleep better, focus more, and feel happier. 

For example, one study showed that students who spent four to six hours on digital media had a 49% lower chance of always or usually finishing their homework than those with less than two hours of media time per day. Those with six or more hours of device use had 63% lower odds of finishing their homework!

Cutting back on screen time is a smart move. It helps improve sleep, focus, and overall well-being. Try setting limits on screen use and finding fun things to do together that don’t involve screens. It might not be easy, but it’s a positive change for your child’s health and development!

Study Habits For Grade Schoolers and More at Tutoring4Less 

At Tutoring4Less, we’re here to guide students on the path to developing effective study habits that truly make a difference. We work closely with parents to not only support their child’s academic progress but also to foster the development of effective study habits. Our experienced tutors understand that every student is unique, and we tailor our approach to match individual learning styles and needs. Through open communication and regular updates, parents are actively involved in their child’s educational journey. With personalized one-on-one sessions, we help students grasp essential study techniques, time management skills, and organization strategies that enhance their academic performance as early as Kindergarten. By instilling these habits early on, we empower students to become independent learners, confident problem solvers, and achievers in and out of the classroom.

Schedule a free assessment for your child, and learn how we can help them improve by as much as an entire grade level. 

Student of the Month, Summer Tutoring

A Summer Like No Other

Picture this: the sun is shining, and kids are buzzing with energy. What if we told you that this summer could also be a time of academic growth and personal achievement? Say hello to Tutoring4Less’ Summer 2023 Tutoring Program! Designed to keep the gears of learning turning during the break, this program is the antidote to the “summer slide.”

Championing Academic Success

Ever seen a student achieve the impossible? Meet our Summer Project Winners! From creating mini volcanoes that erupt with excitement to crafting solar-powered model cars that zoom across the finish line, our students have proven that learning can be an absolute blast. These projects are the perfect blend of science, creativity, and hands-on fun, showcasing the endless possibilities of a curious mind.

The Student of the Month Spotlight

Drumroll, please! Every month, we shine a spotlight on a student who’s stood out in the crowd with their dedication, progress, and enthusiasm. Our Student of the Month isn’t just about acing tests – it’s about embracing challenges, embracing growth, and embodying the spirit of a true learner. Their stories are the heart of our program, showing that with the right support, every child can soar.

No More Summer Slide

You’ve heard about the “summer slide,” and it’s not the kind of ride anyone wants. Our Summer Tutoring Program is the ultimate insurance policy against this learning loss. From Pre-K to 12th grade, we’ve got a tailored program for every student. Whether it’s math, science, foreign languages, or even test prep, our dedicated tutors make sure your child is ready to conquer the next school year with confidence.

Beyond the Books

But hold on, there’s more! Our program isn’t just about textbooks and formulas. We believe in holistic growth. Our summer learning activities are like a treasure trove of creativity and critical thinking. Imagine your child exploring scientific processes, diving into math mysteries, and developing motor skills through captivating activities. It’s the perfect blend of education and enjoyment, nurturing well-rounded learners.

The Formula for Success

At Tutoring4Less, we’ve cracked the code to summer success:

  1. Confidence Boosting: We help students entering new grades build the confidence to embrace the challenges ahead.
  2. Academic Recovery: For those who faced difficulties in the past year, our program is the springboard to rebuilding self-esteem and academic prowess.
  3. Test Readiness: We equip students with the tools needed to breeze through state standardized tests in reading, writing, and math.
  4. Continuous Growth: We monitor progress with precision, using assessment tools to ensure each student is mastering their goals.
  5. Customized Curriculum: No one-size-fits-all here. Our tutors tailor the curriculum to each student’s current academic needs.
  6. Fun and Positivity: We create a nurturing environment that fosters positivity, growth, and a love for learning.

Ready, Set, Soar!

As the sun sets on this school year, it rises on an incredible opportunity for your child. Enroll them in the Tutoring4Less Summer Tutoring Program and watch them blossom. Say goodbye to the summer slide and hello to a summer of growth, achievement, and unforgettable learning experiences. Let’s make this summer one for the books – in the best way possible!

Kindergarten

How To Help Your Child Prepare For Kindergarten

Are you looking for ways to help your child prepare for kindergarten in Los Angeles? Kindergarten is a significant milestone in every child’s life, as it marks the beginning of their academic journey. As a parent in Los Angeles, you may wonder how to best equip your child for this exciting phase. The transition to kindergarten can be a big change for parents and children. From the daily routine, to the social interactions, to the academic skills, your child will have many “firsts” to learn and adjust to. Some parents worry about their child’s academic readiness, while others are concerned that their child may not be quite ready for kindergarten in a social-emotional sense. Some children are excited to start kindergarten, and others may be apprehensive as they don’t quite know what to expect. Not to worry, we are here to help! At Tutoring4Less, we understand the importance of a strong foundation and the positive impact it can have on a child’s educational future. These helpful tips from our tutoring company in Los Angeles can help prepare both you and your child for kindergarten. 

When Can My Child Start Kindergarten?

In California, districts must admit children to kindergarten at the beginning of the school year (or whenever they move into a district) if they will be five years of age on or before September 1. Children who are age-eligible for kindergarten may attend any pre-kindergarten summer program maintained by the school district. 

Private schools in California are not required to comply with the California statutes defining kindergarten. However, the California Association of Private Schools Organizations (CAPSO) indicates that many private schools do voluntarily the same kindergarten age cutoff as public schools. Public school officials may not automatically enroll those students, who attended a private school kindergarten, to first grade. It is always best to ask your school and/or school district if your child’s birthday is in the fall. 

When Is The First Day of Kindergarten in Los Angeles?

The first day of Kindergarten in Los Angeles may vary from year to year and between different schools or school districts. For the 2023-2024 school year, LAUSD, the largest school district serving Los Angeles students, starts on August 15, 2023. Depending on your child’s school, there may be “meet and greet” opportunities before August 15th, when your child can see the school campus and meet some of the other incoming kindergarteners or TK students. You can contact the school directly to inquire about the first day of Kindergarten for the current academic year, and any opportunities to visit the school before the first day.

What is Transitional Kindergarten (TK)?

Transitional kindergarten (TK) is the first year of a two-year kindergarten program that uses a modified kindergarten curriculum that is age and developmentally appropriate. In California, each elementary or unified school district must offer TK classes for all children eligible to attend. A child who completes one year in a TK program, may continue in a kindergarten program for one additional year. A child is eligible for TK if they have their fifth birthday between September 2 and December 2 (inclusive) and each school year thereafter.

Transitional kindergarten (TK) and kindergarten (K) may be your child’s first-ever experience in a school setting – or it may be a time of transition, moving up from preschool to elementary school. Regardless, it’s an exciting and memorable milestone.

What Is My Child Expected To Know Before Starting Kindergarten in Los Angeles?

If you search online for “kindergarten readiness checklist California” you’ll likely find a long document describing the standards for entering kindergarten in your area. Below are sample skills that an incoming kindergarten student is expected to have:

  • Recognize and name basic shapes: square, circle, triangle, and rectangle.
  • Recognize and name numbers 1-10, even when they are out of order.
  • Recognize the letters of the alphabet, both uppercase and lowercase (even out of order)
  • Sort items by size, color, or shape
  • Count 10 objects, pointing to each one as she counts
  • Identify some letters of the alphabet
  • Know if two words rhyme
  • Grip a pencil, crayon, or marker correctly
  • Be able to use scissors and glue
  • Hold a book and turn pages
  • Write their first name using upper- and lowercase letters, if possible
  • Learn sounds corresponding to vowels and consonants
  • Be independent in the bathroom
  • Get themselves dressed

In addition to this checklist, you may want to contact your child’s future school and ask for a specific list of expectations, to prepare your child for a smooth transition in the fall. 

Simple Steps To Help Your Child Prepare for Kindergarten: Foster The Love of Learning

Getting your child ready for TK/kindergarten is important – and chances are you have already been doing it all along! Talking, reading, and singing with your child are three simple, free ways to prepare your child for school. If you want to take specific steps to prepare your child for kindergarten this summer, here are some simple suggestions:

  1. Plan a visit to the new school and talk with your child about the things they will do at school.
  1. Read to your child every day.
  1. Explore and introduce basic concepts, such as letters, numbers, shapes and colors. For example, you might count the number of plates needed for dinner, or talk about different colors while sorting laundry.
  1. Provide plenty of play opportunities with other children. This will help your child learn to get along with others, to share toys and take turns.
  1. Play games that teach your child how to wait or take turns, such as “London Bridge” or “Duck, Duck, Goose.”
  1. Encourage your child to clean their own room and help with simple chores around the house. 
  1. Encourage independence and self-care: show your child how to get dressed, wash hands, put away their backpack or lunchbox, and perform similar daily tasks. 
  1. Give your child time to play. All children need free time to simply play. Giving your child time to play is very valuable, as playing provides children with many developmental benefits. 
  1. If possible, provide experiences away from you. Enroll your child in preschool or another activity, such as soccer, swimming lessons or storytime at your local library. 
  1. Make sure your child is in good health: physically, socially, emotionally and intellectually. Schedule regular wellness visits and immunizations, provide a variety of nutritious foods and be sure your child is getting enough sleep and exercise.
  1. Make a plan for before- and after-school. Make sure you and your child know the routine for before- and after-school care if that applies. Discuss where he/she will go, how he/she will get between school and child care, how he/she will get home, etc. Have a back-up plan for what to do in case you are late.

Help Your Child Develop Fine Motor Skills Before Kindergarten or TK

Fine motor skills play a crucial role in a child’s development and independence. As they master these skills, they become more capable of performing various tasks on their own. Here are some essential points to consider about fine motor skills:

  • Importance of Fine Motor Skills: Fine motor skills involve the coordination of small muscles in the hands and fingers. These skills are vital for everyday activities like dressing, eating, and writing. Studies show that early motor difficulties in preschool children had significant effects on their academic achievement up until the sixth grade
  • Building Independence: As children practice and develop their fine motor skills, they gain the ability to do more things for themselves, fostering a sense of independence and self-reliance.
  • Preparing for Advanced Skills: Strong fine motor skills serve as a foundation for more complex tasks such as writing with a pencil, using a computer mouse, or playing a musical instrument.
  • Muscle Strength and Coordination: Engaging in activities that require fine motor skills helps increase muscle strength and hand-eye coordination, allowing children to perform tasks with precision and control.
  • Diverse Activities: There are numerous activities that can help improve fine motor skills, including coloring, drawing, using scissors, threading beads, and playing with playdough or clay.
  • Problem-Solving Abilities: Fine motor activities like puzzles and building blocks also enhance problem-solving abilities while honing fine motor skills simultaneously.
  • Encouraging Creativity: Artistic activities like finger painting and using small utensils during mealtimes not only improve fine motor skills but also encourage creativity and self-expression.
  • Developing Handwriting Skills: Practicing handwriting and writing letters are essential for refining fine motor skills required for writing effectively.

Here are some effective ways to support and enhance your future kindergartener’s fine motor skils:

  • Engage in Playdough and Clay Play: Provide your child with playdough and clay to manipulate and shape. Rolling, squeezing, and molding these materials can strengthen hand muscles and improve dexterity.
  • Encourage Coloring and Drawing: Offer coloring books, blank sheets of paper, and crayons to your child. Coloring and drawing help refine hand-eye coordination and fine motor control.
  • Practice Cutting with Safety Scissors: Introduce child-safe scissors and let your child practice cutting simple shapes and lines. Cutting gives young children independent movements of each finger. This activity hones hand-eye coordination and builds hand strength.
  • Play with Building Blocks: Building with blocks requires precise hand movements and finger control. Encourage your child to stack, arrange, and build structures to enhance their fine motor skills.
  • Use Puzzles and Manipulatives: Puzzles and other small manipulative toys are excellent for fine motor development. Assembling puzzles and handling small objects improve problem-solving abilities and fine motor control.
  • Try Threading and Stringing Activities: Provide large beads or objects with holes and a string for your child to thread. Stringing beads involves careful hand movements and helps develop focus and patience.
  • Involve in Finger Painting: Finger painting is a fun way to boost fine motor skills and creativity. Allow your child to explore colors and shapes using their fingers.

Tutoring4Less Prepares Students for Kindergarten in Los Angeles

The transition to kindergarten is an important milestone, and at Tutoring4Less we see dozens of students make this transition every fall. If you would like assistance with helping your child prepare for kindergarten academically, as well as to practice independence, organizational skills and social interaction, our Los Angeles tutoring program may be right for you. Although many parents associate the word “tutoring” with subject-specific help after school, our program provides strong foundational skills for students of all ages, as well as those entering kindergarten in the fall. Contact us for a free assessment and to discuss whether your rising kindergarten student would benefit from our services. 

Summer Tutoring

Finding the Best Summer Program For Your Child In 2022

Summer 2022 is something we are all looking forward to and a summer program for your child is a big part of it. Whether your child is interested in STEM, art, sports, or a little bit of everything, Los Angeles has a program for everyone. But what should you choose if your child did not do as well as expected in the 2021-2022 school year? How can you help your son or daughter with an academic boost over the summer, to prepare them for the new school year? The “summer slump” is a well-documented phenomenon even for kids who meet or exceed academic standards during the school year. The summer slump, or summer regression, refers to students’ lower academic performance at the start of a new school year, caused by a lack of exposure to educational opportunities during the summer. Then, come fall, educators are required to spend time at the beginning of the year reviewing the material to get students back to their pre-summer levels.

At Tutoring4Less, we offer a summer tutoring program, otherwise known as Summer Intervention Program, with hands-on learning as well as fun activities. Our Summer 2022 program helps prevent the summer slump, so your child can start the new academic year on the right foot.

Academic Summer Camp vs. Summer Intervention Program in Los Angeles

If your child needs academic support based on the year-end results of 2021-2022 school year, your first thought may be to sign them up for an academic summer camp. Many summer camps offer 1-week or 2-week programs specializing in math, reading, computer science, earth science, or STEM. These programs offer some hands-on learning and/or focus on a specific subject. And of course, summer camp includes fun activities, field trips, and opportunities to make new friends. In Los Angeles and Southern California, you can choose from hundreds of camps for summer 2022. With COVID restrictions mostly lifted, there are sleepaway camps, camps on college campuses, Parks & Recs camps, and online summer camps. There are plenty of academic summer camps, ranging from creative writing to coding. Some camps are very affordable, while others can cost thousands of dollars. The choice of a summer program is often limited only by your schedule and budget.

What may work for some families may not work for others. Often, when you review your chid’s report card for the spring term, you may decide that instead of summer camp, a summer intervention program focused on academic skills may be a better use of your child’s time and your family’s budget.  

What Should Los Angeles Parents Look for In a High-Quality Summer Intervention Program?

Many programs tout themselves as “the best” or “top-rated summer program in Los Angeles.” To help you cut through the noise, we recommend evaluating your options based on the following criteria:

  • Balanced programming with daily opportunities for reading, math, and recreation
  • Low student-to-staff ratios
  • High-interest, engaging activities
  • Positive interaction between kids and caring adults
  • A safe, structured learning environment
  • Personalized attention
  • Bilingual staff 
  • Convenient location and hours

What Questions Can Parents Ask Before Enrolling Their Child In A Los Angeles Summer Intervention Program?

With so many programs to choose from, you may be asking some questions to help you narrow down the list of summer options for your child. We suggest asking the following questions:

  • What is the summer program’s mission? 
  • How is a typical day/week organized? How will my child spend his/her time?
  • What are the program hours and dates? 
  • How much does the program cost?
  • Will my child be able to work on reading, math, and other skills? 
  • Will my child have an opportunity to choose some of his/her activities?
  • How does the program assess or track each child’s progress? 
  • How does the program promote positive interaction between students and staff?
  • Who are the staff and tutors? How many years of experience do they bring to the summer program?
  • What type of communication can families expect?
  • How much academic progress can I expect at the end of the summer? How prepared will my child be for the fall?

Summer Intervention Program at Tutoring4Less

Our summer learning programs are intervention programs that support accelerated learning during the summer months. Academically-focused summer learning programs differ from traditional summer school programs or academic summer camps in that they:

  •  integrate recreational, cultural, and/or enrichment activities
  •  blend remediation with enrichment activities and more advanced curriculum
  •  are attended by students of varied skill levels
  •  encourage positive relationships among peers and with adults

The Tutoring 4 Less Summer Tutoring Program is a readiness program for students from Pre-K to 12th grade that need to prepare for the academic challenges they face when entering a new grade level.  Our program focuses on addressing a student’s academic weaknesses and building a student’s confidence. Whether it’s math, science, or writing programs you need, our tutoring services can provide the academic support that will support your student’s continued academic development. We even provide test prep services.

During the Tutoring 4 Less summer tutoring program, a student won’t have the distractions of school or homework and can focus on addressing all of the academic content that they have been struggling with throughout the previous school year. With the support of a private tutor, whether in-person or via online tutoring, your student’s tutoring experience will lift your student’s academic abilities and get them closer to achieving their full potential.
Whether your child struggled in school this school year and needs to catch up, or you would like to help your child build new skills and confidence, our Summer Tutoring program is a great alternative to summer camps or summer school.

Contact us today to learn more
Resources

LAUSD Calendar for the 2023-24 School Year: Key Dates and Holidays

Welcome to the LAUSD Calendar for the 2023-24 school year! Stay organized and plan ahead with important dates and holidays for the upcoming academic year. Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, this comprehensive calendar will help you stay informed and make the most of the school year.

Important Dates:

  1. First Day of School: Mark your calendars for August 15, 2023, as it’s the exciting first day of the 2023-24 academic year. Students will return to their classrooms ready for a year of learning and growth.
  2. Labor Day (Holiday): Enjoy a well-deserved day off on September 4, 2023, as we celebrate Labor Day. Use this time to relax, recharge, and spend quality time with family and friends.
  3. Non-Student Days: Take note of two non-student days throughout the year. On October 9, 2023, and November 10, 2023, students will have a break from classes, providing an opportunity for professional development and planning for teachers.
  4. Thanksgiving Break: Get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some quality time with loved ones during the Thanksgiving break. Students will have a well-deserved break on November 23-24, 2023, to celebrate this festive occasion.
  5. Winter Break: It’s time to spread the holiday cheer! From December 18, 2023, to January 5, 2024, students can enjoy a winter break filled with celebrations, family gatherings, and relaxation before returning to school.
  6. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Holiday): On January 15, 2024, we honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. This day offers an opportunity to reflect on his teachings and contributions to equality and justice.
  7. Presidents’ Day (Holiday): Take a break on February 19, 2024, as we commemorate Presidents’ Day. Use this time to explore our nation’s history and learn about the influential leaders who shaped our country.
  8. Spring Break: Recharge and rejuvenate during the spring break from March 26-30, 2024. Students can engage in activities, travel, or simply take time for personal pursuits before the final stretch of the school year.
  9. Memorial Day (Holiday): On May 27, 2024, we remember and honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It’s a day to reflect on their bravery and commitment to our country.
  10. Last Day of School: Celebrate the end of another successful academic year on June 7, 2024. Students can bid farewell to their teachers and classmates, embracing the start of summer break.

Please note that the provided dates are subject to change. Stay connected with the official LAUSD website or contact the district directly for any updates or modifications to the calendar.

At LAUSD, we believe in providing an enriching educational experience, fostering growth, and preparing students for future success. The 2023-24 school year promises to be filled with exciting opportunities and memorable learning experiences.

Bookmark this page or print the calendar to ensure you stay up-to-date with the key dates and holidays throughout the year. Let’s make the most of the 2023-24 school year together!

LOS ANGELES UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT INSTRUCTIONAL SCHOOL CALENDAR 2023-2024

VIEW / PRINT CALENDAR
Summer Tutoring

The Advantages of Summer School vs Summer Tutoring

As parents prepare for the coming summer and consider their children’s needs, they may be pondering the advantages of summer school vs summer tutoring. Both have similar benefits, but also different structures and other distinctions that should be considered. Tutoring 4 Less offers insight into which academic programs you should opt to best advantage your children over the summer months!

Differences Between Summer School and Summer Tutoring

Some of the major differences between summer school and summer tutoring include:

Summer SchoolSummer Tutoring
The entire class receives the same lesson plan.Each student receives a different lesson plan.
Groups can be up to 35 in size.Small group settings or individual tutoring (2-4 maximum).
There is a set schedule for classes.Flexible schedule for classes.
Curriculum books are used.An online platform is used.
Teachers intermittently monitor progress.Progress is consistently checked via the online platform.
Must attend class at school.Can attend at home or at Tutoring 4 Less’ Tutoring Center.
The same program is taught to students regardless of learning style.Each tutoring program is tailored to a student’s learning style and academic need.
Parents discuss progress with teacher after summer school program ends.Parents discuss progress with tutor after each session.

Why Summer is the Best Time for Tutoring

Families most commonly turn to tutoring services because kids are struggling, even falling behind, during the school year. The issue is often a skills or knowledge gap. Kids working with a tutor benefit from the one-on-one focus, but in order to get caught up on the class material, focus often has to be split between new content and study skills. Summer is different, however. Not only are students fresher, because they are not at school for forty hours a week or longer, they have no new content to focus on (except high school students, who may have reading lists they are expected to start on over the summer break). That means that tutors over the summer can focus on providing their students with the skills they will need for the next year, whether those are:

  • Reading and writing
  • Number sense
  • Assignment planning
  • Time management/prioritization
  • Note taking
  • Researching/independent learning

As little as an hour or two of summer tutoring sessions a week can pay off massively when your child hits the ground running in the next academic year. It can also avert the summer slide: the atrophy of study skills through lack of use during a long break. Summer slide is a considerable issue that educators first identified decades ago, and can set students’ academic skills as far back as a month every summer. Over the course of a child’s academic development, that can add up significantly.

Taking Advantage of Summer School Tutoring

One of the main issues of summer break is that while students may be on break, parents are most likely not. It can be difficult to help your children prepare for the next academic year and get them in the right frame of mind for learning, especially elementary school-aged children. This is a major advantage of summer school tutoring: parents can have a professional prepare their kids for school. Tutors will expand children’s skillsets, particularly study skills. Some students might prefer if they spend their summer vacation at home, and simply have a tutor visit for several hours a week. The advantages of this approach include greater comfort levels for students, a better attitude (they don’t feel like summer is being taken away from them by more school), and greater receptiveness.

Additional Benefits of Summer Tutoring

Test prep, such as for the ACT and SAT, is a good choice for summer tutoring. Students can build confidence by working on their test skills outside of the standard school environment with its myriad distractions, steeling themselves for the test environment and coming up with strategies to avoid undue stress or fatigue.

Summer tutoring can even be a support option for summer school. Often summer school teachers are doing their best to compress months of coursework into weeks, and students can struggle to keep up with the relentless pace. A tutor who can hone in on a student’s learning style and address it directly can have an immense effort, not only on the student’s progress during summer but the rest of their academic career. Sometimes, all that is needed for a student to prosper is for a tutor to show them the way that they can leverage their learning style’s advantages for themselves.

Talk to us about arranging summer learning for your child!

Uncategorized

Finding the Best Summer Program For Your Child In 2023

Chinese Elementary School Girl Sitting At Books Stack Posing On Yellow Background. Studio Shot, Free Space For Text

Summer 2023 is something we are all looking forward to and a summer program for your child is a big part of it. Whether your child is interested in STEM, art, sports, or a little bit of everything, Los Angeles has a program for everyone. But what should you choose if your child did not do as well as expected in the 2022-2023 school year? How can you help your son or daughter with an academic boost over the summer, to prepare them for the new school year? The “summer slump” is a well-documented phenomenon even for kids who meet or exceed academic standards during the school year. The summer slump, or summer regression, refers to students’ lower academic performance at the start of a new school year, caused by a lack of exposure to educational opportunities during the summer. Then, come fall, educators are required to spend time at the beginning of the year reviewing the material to get students back to their pre-summer levels.

At Tutoring4Less, we offer a summer tutoring program, otherwise known as Summer Intervention Program, with hands-on learning as well as fun activities. Our Summer 2023 program helps prevent the summer slump, so your child can start the new academic year on the right foot.

Academic Summer Camp vs. Summer Intervention Program in Los Angeles

If your child needs academic support based on the year-end results of 2022-2023 school year, your first thought may be to sign them up for an academic summer camp. Many summer camps offer 1-week or 2-week programs specializing in math, reading, computer science, earth science, or STEM. These programs offer some hands-on learning and/or focus on a specific subject. And of course, summer camp includes fun activities, field trips, and opportunities to make new friends. In Los Angeles and Southern California, you can choose from hundreds of camps for summer 2023. With COVID restrictions mostly lifted, there are sleepaway camps, camps on college campuses, Parks & Recs camps, and online summer camps. There are plenty of academic summer camps, ranging from creative writing to coding. Some camps are very affordable, while others can cost thousands of dollars. The choice of a summer program is often limited only by your schedule and budget.

What may work for some families may not work for others. Often, when you review your chid’s report card for the spring term, you may decide that instead of summer camp, a summer intervention program focused on academic skills may be a better use of your child’s time and your family’s budget.  

What Should Los Angeles Parents Look for In a High-Quality Summer Intervention Program?

Many programs tout themselves as “the best” or “top-rated summer program in Los Angeles.” To help you cut through the noise, we recommend evaluating your options based on the following criteria:

  • Balanced programming with daily opportunities for reading, math, and recreation
  • Low student-to-staff ratios
  • High-interest, engaging activities
  • Positive interaction between kids and caring adults
  • A safe, structured learning environment
  • Personalized attention
  • Bilingual staff 
  • Convenient location and hours

What Questions Can Parents Ask Before Enrolling Their Child In A Los Angeles Summer Intervention Program?

With so many programs to choose from, you may be asking some questions to help you narrow down the list of summer options for your child. We suggest asking the following questions:

  • What is the summer program’s mission? 
  • How is a typical day/week organized? How will my child spend his/her time?
  • What are the program hours and dates? 
  • How much does the program cost?
  • Will my child be able to work on reading, math, and other skills? 
  • Will my child have an opportunity to choose some of his/her activities?
  • How does the program assess or track each child’s progress? 
  • How does the program promote positive interaction between students and staff?
  • Who are the staff and tutors? How many years of experience do they bring to the summer program?
  • What type of communication can families expect?
  • How much academic progress can I expect at the end of the summer? How prepared will my child be for the fall?

Summer Intervention Program at Tutoring4Less

Our summer learning programs are intervention programs that support accelerated learning during the summer months. Academically-focused summer learning programs differ from traditional summer school programs or academic summer camps in that they:

  •  integrate recreational, cultural, and/or enrichment activities
  •  blend remediation with enrichment activities and more advanced curriculum
  •  are attended by students of varied skill levels
  •  encourage positive relationships among peers and with adults

The Tutoring 4 Less Summer Tutoring Program is a readiness program for students from Pre-K to 12th grade that need to prepare for the academic challenges they face when entering a new grade level.  Our program focuses on addressing a student’s academic weaknesses and building a student’s confidence. Whether it’s math, science, or writing programs you need, our tutoring services can provide the academic support that will support your student’s continued academic development. We even provide test prep services.

During the Tutoring 4 Less summer tutoring program, a student won’t have the distractions of school or homework and can focus on addressing all of the academic content that they have been struggling with throughout the previous school year. With the support of a private tutor, whether in-person or via online tutoring, your student’s tutoring experience will lift your student’s academic abilities and get them closer to achieving their full potential.

Whether your child struggled in school this school year and needs to catch up, or you would like to help your child build new skills and confidence, our Summer Tutoring program is a great alternative to summer camps or summer school. Contact us today to learn more! 

Homework Help, Resources

Homework Help Resources

Do you or your child ever wish you could wave a magic wand and have homework done for you? Homework struggles are real, and a common source of frustration for both students and parents. The good news is that these days, there are plenty of online resources, including online math problem solvers and smartphone applications. Whether you are a parent or a student, you can leverage online math problem-solving websites and smartphone applications to find the step-by-step answer to a complex problem. While these tools are not a magic wand, and definitely not a substitute for learning, they can give you and your student a quick shortcut when you are stuck on a homework problem. At Tutoring4Less, we support Los Angeles students with a structured curriculum to help them master skills for each grade level. While we don’t use online math solvers or other shortcuts, we recognize that when you are helping your students with homework at home, they can be very helpful, particularly if it’s been a while since you studied math yourself.

What Is A Website That Can Help With Math Homework?

What do you do when you are stuck on a math question, with no one around to help with math homework? When you find a math problem that you don’t know how to solve, you can easily take a photo and upload it to an online math problem solver. You will get the answer in a few seconds. These websites can help with homework and also provide you with detailed explanations of the questions to help you learn math more thoroughly.

In this article, we have compiled a list of these websites that will help you to figure out the solution to any K-12 math problem. From beginner arithmetic to algebra, geometry, statistics, and even calculus, no problem is too hard for these online tools. 

Khan Academy: Khan Academy is an online, free and non-profit provider of education. Students can choose from an impressive list of subjects that span from all levels, including early math to AP Biology and more. The site even offers help with test prep for the SAT, ACT, MCAT, GMAT and other college-level entrance exams.

Mathway is a smart math problem solver which gives you a step-by-step solution to any math problem. Just type your question and press enter to reveal a detailed answer to your math problem

Chegg Math Solver gives you full-time access to an online calculator or math solver where you can type any math question and get a detailed explanation along with the final answer.

CameraMath is a simple and efficient tool application for math problem solvers. It is an essential learning and problem-solving tool for students! Just snap a picture of the homework question and CameraMath will show you the step-by-step solution with detailed explanations. CameraMath covers all levels of math including Arithmetic, Algebra I, Algebra II, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, and more.

Photomath is a smartphone application which is also known as a camera calculator. All you have to do is take a picture of a math problem and upload it. This math app will scan the problem, solve it, and will display a detailed solution on your screen.

Microsoft Math Solver provides you a free platform where you can not only get detailed solutions to your questions, but also other supporting materials such as interactive graphs, relevant practice problems, and online videos.

Snapcalc is another tool that does the math for you. Just snap a picture of a math problem, and voila — the answer is displayed on your screen. From algebra to calculus, the app has solutions to a wide range of topics. Handwritten problem? No worries – SnapCalc recognizes both handwritten problems as well as printed ones. Just snap a problem or upload one from your photo gallery.

What You Should Know About Online Homework Help

When seeking help online for homework or writing assignments, you may be tempted to let someone else do the work. However, that is considered cheating and/or plagiarism, and it results in serious consequences. It is important to remember that math requires critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and logical deduction. By relying on online math problem solvers, students miss out on the opportunity to develop these skills. While online math problem solvers can be convenient and quick, they are not a substitute for developing problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of math concepts. Finally, keep in mind that online math problem solvers are not perfect and can make mistakes. Students who rely on them may not realize when the answer is incorrect, leading to further confusion and a setback to their learning process.

Help Your Child With Math: Alternatives To Online Math Problem Solvers

Some students need extra help and encouragement to get better at math. As a parent, you may feel that helping with math isn’t always easy, especially since the way they teach math is different than it used to be “back in your day.” If you feel lost or frustrated trying to help your child with math, you are definitely not alone. Most parents and caregivers haven’t taken math classes in a while. But even if you’re not the best at math, there are many ways you and the school can help your child improve.

Here are some tips for parents and caregivers to help their child with math:

  • Talk about math: Use sports, like football, to reinforce math concepts.
  • Avoid saying you’re bad at math: saying we aren’t good at math erodes any remaining confidence, and it gives our kids permission to not be good at it, either – that is not an option we can afford to take. When kids hear you say that you’re bad at math, they believe you. And consequently, they often conclude that they also will inevitably be bad at math.
  • Have your child teach you math: teaching a concept is a great way to learn it and to feel more confident about your own math skills. When faced with a question that you can’t answer, explain that you’re stuck too, and challenge your kids to figure it out just well enough that they can try to explain it to you.
  • Play board games that help young kids build math skills.
  • Ask your child’s teacher for tips you can try at home.

Homework Help and More at Tutoring4Less in Los Angeles

It is completely normal to need homework help at any grade level. While some students may leverage their family or friends for help, others need more in-depth assistance. At Tutoring4Less, we support K-12 students of all abilities with regular tutoring sessions, to encourage learning and understanding math, rather than quick shortcuts such as online math solvers. We help our students develop confidence and study habits that will last them a lifetime, not just help them pass the next test. Our students improve by an entire grade level on average. So next time you or your student is tempted to upload a picture of a difficult math problem to an online solver, schedule an assessment at Tutoring4Less and get them started on a path to becoming a more confident and successful student. We are here to help!

Habits For Success, Kindergarten

Study Habits For Elementary School Success

Study Habits To Help Your Child Succeed In Elementary School and Beyond

As parents, we have a lot on our plates. When a child asks for help with homework, or when you find that their report card is not looking as good as it could, the idea of sitting down to help your child with homework after a long day may sound daunting. But a few simple study habits can go a long way to helping your child succeed. You don’t need to spend hours doing homework with your grade-schooler every night. Instead, you can help them develop strong study habits that will come in handy not just this school year, but for many years to come, even in your child’s professional life. 

Good study habits don’t come naturally to grade-schoolers. As a leading tutoring service in Los Angeles, we work with students to develop study skills while they gain mastery of the material for each subject. Today we are sharing a few tips for helping your child develop strong, effective study habits. With these tips, your child will be more able to effectively use their study time, minimize homework frustration, and enjoy more free time to play or do what they love.

Time management, focus, and balancing self-care are essential skills in the real world. Helping your child thrive in school prepares them for all of life’s demands. Perhaps you can even learn a thing or two about managing your own time! 

Set A Fixed Time For Homework

Most elementary school age kids in Los Angeles have busy schedules. After a long day at school, there are sports, extracurricular activities, playdates, or after-school care. In Southern California, we also have extra time in traffic to contend with. By the time you get dinner on the table, homework may be the last thing on your child’s mind. The key to avoiding late-night meltdowns over homework is to officially put homework on your child’s daily schedule. 

In general, it is recommended to get homework done either before dinner or as early in the evening as possible with your child’s schedule and family commitments. The later it gets, the more tired the child becomes and the more slowly the homework gets done.

Sit down with your child and schedule homework time together. Set a start and end time, and be sure to plan for study breaks. Then, help your child stick to their new schedule. It may take a couple of weeks to find a groove, as interruptions or distractions come up. Stay consistent with the schedule and remind the entire family that homework time is a priority. You can use technology to help you: set reminders on your phone to make sure time doesn’t get away from everyone. After a while, study time will become a regular and expected part of the day. And studies show that children with a structured routine tend to feel more secure and less stressed. 

Teach Your Child To Create A Dedicated Study Space

As parents, we picture our children doing homework in a quiet room with perfect lighting and no distractions. In the real world, that is not always possible. No dedicated room for homework? No problem. You can create a portable “homework station” to keep all of your child’s school and homework supplies handy.

Furthermore, some kids can actually focus better when surrounded by other people. Left alone in their room, they may easily become distracted. Good news is, a student can make just about any study space more productive. The key to a dedicated homework space is consistency and boundaries. If your child loves doing homework at the kitchen table, perhaps you can set aside an area where they can set up a “pop-up” homework station. Then, during dinner time, it gets cleaned up.

The kitchen table can be a great space for younger children to work. But as your child moves into middle and high school, they may crave more privacy and a larger dedicated space for their textbooks and devices. If it’s time to upgrade their desk, one way to encourage a dedicated homework space is to allow them to decorate their new space. When their study space fits their style, they will be more likely to enjoy using it. You may need to experiment with a few different types of homework setups before you arrive at the optimal solution for this school year. Then, you can start over next year. 

Set Regular But Short Breaks

Research shows that taking purposeful breaks from studying to refresh your brain and body increases your energy, productivity, and ability to focus.

Many professionals use the Pomodoro Technique to increase productivity — working for 25 minutes, then taking a five-minute break. This is a great place to start when planning study breaks as well. Depending on the age of your child, even 25 minutes can be too long to sit still and focus on homework. Try out a few options, see what works best for your child, and be flexible. Once you settle on a study break schedule, plan some simple activities that can help your child relax, but not be so distracted that it is difficult to regain focus. 

Here are some ideas for fun short study breaks:

  • Stretch
  • Go for a walk
  • Take a dance break
  • Grab a snack or a glass of water
  • Do 10 jumping jacks
  • Play with building blocks, play dough or a similar fine-motor activity

Try to avoid screen time and TV, which can be very addicting and hard to end after just a few minutes. Save those activities for when homework time is done for the day. 

Prioritize Regular Exercise and Sleep

We know that physical activity has great health benefits for our children. But did you know that children who are more physically active have better academic performance, memory, and attention? Daily exercise will keep the brain active. During study breaks, or before and after study sessions, encourage your child to get outside. 

Guidelines from the Department of Health and Human Services recommend that children and adolescents age 6 and older get at least an hour a day of moderate or vigorous aerobic activity. Children should do vigorous activities, such as running or biking, at least three days a week.

If that transition from school to home to studying is difficult, try exercise to move the mind forward. You don’t have to spend a lot of time here. A 10-minute bike ride or a 5-minute yoga session may be just the trick to moving on to the next phase of the day.

Now, let’s talk about sleep and homework. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has recommended that children aged 6–12 years should regularly sleep 9–12 hours per 24 hours and teenagers aged 13–18 years should sleep 8–10 hours per 24 hours. According to the CDC, Children and adolescents who do not get enough sleep have a higher risk of obesity, diabetes, injuries, poor mental health, and problems with attention and behavior. 

Children who experienced sleep problems had lower performance outcomes on tests of reading than their peers who slept well. New research published in the British Journal of Educational Psychology suggests that sleep problems may negatively affect children’s reading ability.

Parents can support good sleep habits by sticking to a consistent sleep schedule during the school week and on weekends. This means going to bed at the same time each night and getting up at the same time each morning. Create a relaxing sleep environment for your child. Make sure the bedroom is clutter-free, dark and conducive to great sleep. A cool bedroom, between 65 and 67 degrees, is ideal to help kids sleep.

Study Habits For Grade Schoolers and More at Tutoring4Less 

Developing good study habits can be tough, and your child needs your help to succeed. Good study habits are essential for developing children into lifelong learners. A lot of this list involves you, the parent, helping your child learn the dos and don’ts of studying. Looking for more ways to help your child succeed in school and beyond? At Tutoring4Less, our mission is to empower our students with the skills needed to become confident thinkers and independent learners that strive for academic success! Schedule a free assessment for your child, and learn how we can help them improve by as much as an entire grade level. 

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How To Help Your Child Prepare For Third Grade

Did you know that the transition from second to third grade is often considered to be one of the most difficult years in your child’s education? Are you looking for ways to help your child prepare for third grade? By the third grade, children have spent two years mastering reading and doing basic math computations. In third grade, they are able to branch out in their studies and handle more complex material. These tips from our tutoring company in Los Angles can help prepare your child for success in third grade. 

Why Is Third Grade So Important?

Third grade signifies the transition to the final two years of elementary school, otherwise knows as the upper elementary school. Third grade has been identified as important to reading literacy because it is the final year children are learning to read, after which students are “reading to learn.” If they are not proficient readers when they begin fourth grade, as much as half of the curriculum they will be taught will be incomprehensible. This transition from lower elementary grades to upper is sometimes considered to be even more challenging than the transition to middle school. Students and their families often struggle with the many new expectations in third grade.

Reading to learn is one of the most valuable skills for students to develop and master for their future. Literacy and reading skills create the foundation for future academic success. Without these skills in place, students are far less likely to understand what they are learning at higher elementary grade levels into middle school. Not only can this hinder their knowledge, but it can also leave students struggling with anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem. Although it may seem hard to believe that third-grade reading skills could have such a significant impact on a student’s future career, in fact, they do.

Another main change in third grade is the beginning of high-stakes standardized testing. In California, students take the Smarter Balanced tests starting in third grade. The Smarter Balanced English language arts assessment measures how well students have mastered English language arts skills including reading, writing, and critical thinking. The Smarter Balanced mathematics assessment measures how well students have mastered math skills and concepts.

Third graders are required to complete much more of their work independently. Therefore, it becomes necessary to develop some new skills. Third-graders need to become more responsible, develop a strong work ethic, and be able to focus for extended periods of time. 

What Math Concepts Is My Child Expected To Know Before Third Grade?

While there is a multitude of third-grade math standards, you can expect a stronger emphasis on multiplication and division. It will be important that students learn their multiplication facts early, and have a deep understanding of how multiplication works. By the beginning of third grade, kids start using abstract thinking skills in math. They will be working with three-digit numbers and using their understanding of place value (for example, knowing that the “3” in “357” is in the hundreds place and means “300,” the “5” is in the tens place and means “50,” and so on).

Third-grade math expects students to know their addition, subtraction, multiplication and division fact families and use them in equations and two-step word problems. 

In addition, 3rd graders need to know how to: 

  • Read and write large numbers through the hundred thousands, knowing the place value for each digit.
  • Use number lines.
  • Round and compare numbers.
  • Understand equivalent fractions, be able to compare fractions and change mixed numbers to improper fractions.
  • Know decimals to the one-hundredth place.
  • Recognize and write patterns.
  • Do mental addition and subtraction.
  • Add four-digit numbers.
  • Subtract with regrouping.
  • Know time to minute and elapsed time in minutes.
  • Read and make graphs.
  • Determine a shape’s perimeter and area.
  • Recognize two-dimensional shapes.
  • Measure with both Customary and Metric systems – length, weight, volume and temperature.
  • Multiply three and four-digit numbers.
  • Divide two and three-digit dividends.
  • Divide circles, squares, and rectangles into equal portions (halves, thirds, quarters).
  • Measure and estimate length using inches, feet, centimeters, and meters.

English Language Arts and Literacy Expectations For Third Grade

Rising third graders are expected to know how to collect information about a single topic from a variety of sources and summarize it. They are also expected to use editing and revising skills in their writing. By the beginning of third grade, children have already started gaining vocabulary and fluency skills. Here are some of the ELA and literacy expectations for third-grade students:

  • Know how to collect information about a topic 
  • Be able to read different styles of text: articles, short stories, short chapters in a book
  • Ask appropriate questions and answer questions about a text (who, what, where, when, why, and how)
  • Read fables, folktales, and myths
  • Recall and retell events from a story in order
  • Tell how the author uses details to support their story or text
  • Compare and contrast elements in different stories (characters, settings, plot, and problems)
  • Discuss a story or topic with their classmates
  • Read grade-level assigned books

Here are some ways kids build skills in reading comprehension and literacy areas and get ready for third grade:

  • Read fables and folktales from different cultures and identify the central message, lesson, or moral in the stories
  • Read about science, social studies, and history and determine the purpose and main idea of these texts
  • Answer who, what, where, when, why, and how questions about stories (both in writing and when speaking), using the rules of standard English
  • Describe how an author uses detail to support an idea
  • Gather facts about a topic and describe what was learned (Watch a video on how third graders do research for an essay.)
  • Write about an event with a beginning, middle, and end
  • Write about books using details and examples to back up opinions

Simple Steps To Help Your Child Prepare for Third Grade

By now, you know that getting your child ready for third grade is important. But it does not have to be very difficult. There are several steps parents can take in order to make this transitional year go smoothly for students:

  1. Be aware of the expected changes in third grade, and help your child understand the new expectations. 
  2. Have your child complete their homework independently. Then, look over their assignments, and provide any needed assistance. 
  3. Work with your child to make sure multiplication facts are mastered early in the school year.
  4. Don’t hesitate to speak with your child’s teacher if you have any concerns or questions.

As at any age, read with your child daily. The US Department of Education suggests 20 minutes every day. Reading aloud can start well before children understand the words you say. The sound of your voice coupled with a warm snuggle and a good book can ignite a love of reading very early on, and continue into their elementary years and even beyond. If you find that your kids are not very interested in reading with you, find books your third grader will love, even if you don’t. 

Tutoring4Less Prepares Students for third grade in Los Angeles

The transition to third grade is an important milestone, and at Tutoring4Less we see dozens of students make this transition every fall. Now you know what third graders are supposed to know, it’s time to ask yourself: Are your child’s skills on par with his or her grade level? Do they need additional support from a structured program and a qualified tutor? 

If you would like assistance with helping your child prepare for third grade, our Los Angeles tutoring program may be right for you. While traditionally many parents associate the word “tutoring” with subject-specific help after school, our Los Angeles tutoring program provides strong foundational skills for students of all ages, including those entering third grade in the fall. Contact us for a free assessment and to discuss whether your rising third-grader would benefit from our services. 

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