It’s not about being stuck inside doing worksheets while everyone else is at the beach. Today’s summer tutoring programs are designed to be short, personalized, and effective, giving students the structure they need without taking away their freedom.

In fact, just a few hours a week can make a dramatic difference.

Why Summer Learning Programs Work (Better Than You’d Think)

1. There’s No School Pressure

Without the pressure of tests, grades, or deadlines, students have space to actually enjoy learning. They can focus on improving skills, asking questions, and mastering tricky subjects without feeling embarrassed or rushed.

2. It Turns Struggles Into Strengths

That math concept that never quite clicked? That reading level that felt just out of reach? Summer is the perfect time to revisit, without falling behind or missing new material. The result? Students go back to school feeling like they’re finally caught up and even ahead!

3. It Keeps Skills (and Confidence) Fresh

It’s normal for students to lose academic skills over the summer, a phenomenon known as the “summer slide.” But regular summer learning keeps routines alive, helps students retain key skills, and gives them a leg up when school starts again. No back-to-school scramble. 

Avoid the summer slide! Check out our Summer Learning Guide for everything you need to support summer success.

Real Students. Real Confidence. Summer Learning Programs.

What matters most? How your child feels about learning. Summer learning programs aren’t just about grades. It’s about confidence.

Parents often tell us their children come out of summer programs more motivated, independent, and proud of what they can do. When students realize they can succeed, with the right tools and support, something clicks.

Turn the “I hate math” to “I got this.”

Or “I’m just not a good reader” into “I actually like this book.”

It’s Still Summer, Fun is Still Part of the Plan

A summer learning program doesn’t mean giving up everything fun. It’s about balance. Short, effective summer learning program sessions can fit around camp, family vacations, and lazy mornings. When students feel successful, the rest of their summer becomes more enjoyable, too.

Confidence is contagious!

Don’t Wait for the School Year to Start Strong

By the time the new school year rolls around, tutoring spots fill up fast, and students start to feel the weight of a new school year. The time to start preparing isn’t later, it’s now.

Give them a summer breakthrough.

Find a location near you to enrol your child in a summer learning program.

Learn More

The post What If Summer Were Your Child’s Secret Power? appeared first on Oxford Learning.

5 Amazing Advantages of Summer Learning

1. Summer Learning Builds Confidence

When students struggle during the school year, it often happens quietly. They don’t always raise their hand. They might avoid assignments or give up easily. Over time, these struggles chip away at their confidence.

Learning over the summer changes that. With individualized attention and a no-pressure environment, students can finally master concepts they’ve been avoiding and build confidence that sticks with them long after summer ends.

In fact, many students say summer was when they finally started to believe in themselves academically.

2. It Reduces Back-to-School Stress

The back-to-school transition can feel overwhelming, especially after two months of school downtime. But students who stay mentally engaged over the summer don’t feel the same panic when they have to return to school in the fall.

Summer learning helps them to: 

• Keep their skills sharp.
• Stay in a learning rhythm.
• Walk on the first day feeling ready, not rusty.

Bonus: parents feel more relaxed, too, knowing their child isn’t starting the year from behind.

3. Summer Learning Sparks Curiosity and Creativity

During the school year, everything is scheduled and curriculum-driven. Summer gives students the freedom to explore topics they’re interested in or to spruce up on a subject that they might be struggling with. Many students love learning creative writing, coding, STEM, puzzles, science experiments, and more during the summer months.

When students choose what to learn, their natural curiosity comes out.

Check out our ultimate guide on summer learning. 

4. Helps Reinforce Healthy Routines

Summer can quickly turn into a free-for-all: late bedtimes, endless screens, and no structure. While that can be fun for a week or two, it doesn’t take long before students get bored, distracted, and even anxious.

A few hours of structured learning with a tutor a week help students maintain routine and purpose. That rhythm is important for emotional well-being, and it makes the transition back to school much smoother.

5. Turns Summer Into an Advantage

While many students lose ground over the summer, others quietly gain it. Students get caught up in subjects that are holding them back. They develop better study habits and sharpen their skills, which provides a serious edge in September. Summer learners don’t just keep up; they pull ahead.

Here’s the best part: they do it all without missing out on vacation, sunshine, or downtime.

Don’t Let Summer Slip Away

Summer is short. But what students do with it can shape their entire school year.

If you’re looking for a way to help your child feel more confident, more prepared, and more engaged, summer learning could be exactly what you’re looking for.

Make the most of this summer. Enrich, empower, and energize your child’s academic journey.

Learn More

The post 5 Surprising Benefits of Summer Learning (Hint: It’s Not Just About School) appeared first on Oxford Learning.

What Is the Midline?

The midline is an imaginary line that runs down the centre of the body, dividing it into left and right halves. Many daily tasks, such as writing, tying shoes, or reaching for a book, require movement that crosses this line.

What Does It Mean to “Cross the Midline”?

Crossing the midline means using one side of the body (like your right hand or foot) to perform a task on the opposite side (like reaching to your left). It might sound simple, but this kind of coordination is essential for developing strong motor and cognitive skills.

When Does Midline Crossing Begin?

Children begin developing this skill from a very young age:

• At 3 months, babies start tracking objects across their visual field.
• Around 6 months, they begin reaching across their body with one hand.
• By 8 months, they’ll transfer toys from one hand to the other.
• By age 4, most children should be able to cross the midline with ease.

This ability continues to strengthen as children grow and learn through movement, play, and practise.

Why Is This Skill So Important for Learning?

Struggling to cross the midline has been linked to several key areas of learning, especially reading and writing. 

This is how midline can affect different areas of learning:

• Children who don’t cross the midline consistently may not develop a dominant hand, leading to weaker fine motor skills.
• Difficulty tracking across the page can impact reading fluency and comprehension.
• Visual coordination and body awareness, both tied to midline crossing, are critical for tasks like writing, spelling, and math.

What About Cross Dominance?

Some children are “cross dominant,” meaning they use different hands (or feet, or eyes) for different tasks. While this might seem like ambidexterity, it can signal a lack of midline integration.

Children with crossed dominance may:

• Struggle with coordination and body control
• Avoid tasks that require fine motor precision
• Experience difficulty in classroom tasks like copying from the board or completing worksheets
  

Studies have shown that children with ADHD are more likely to be cross-dominant, which can further impact focus, organization, and academic performance.

Supporting Midline Development at Home

The good news is that you can help your child build this important skill with fun, simple activities at home. Try to incorporate these at home:

• Cross-body movements (touching right elbow to left knee, and vice versa)
• Throwing and catching with one hand across the body
• Drawing large figure eights in the air or on paper
• Yoga and dance routines that involve reaching across the body
• Games like Simon Says or Twister

Encouraging sports like tennis, swimming, martial arts, or basketball can also provide excellent midline-crossing practice.

Learn More

The post Why Crossing the Midline Can Matter for Learning Success appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Learning struggles in school are not always about ability—sometimes they can be related to mental health. Mental health affects learning and can play a major role in students’ school success. Emotional well-being plays a large role in how students absorb information, engage with schoolwork, and interact with others.

If your child seems to be struggling in school, mental health might be a factor worth considering. Here are some of the most common ways that emotional well-being can impact learning in the classroom.

7 Ways Mental Health Can Affect Learning 

1. Difficulty Concentrating and Paying Attention

Mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or ADHD can make it hard for kids to focus in class or while doing homework.

Signs to watch for: You might notice your child zoning out while studying, constantly getting distracted, or saying they “just can’t concentrate.”

Learn more about how tutoring can help students with ADHD.

2. Struggles with Memory and Retention

Stress and being emotionally overwhelmed can affect a child’s working memory—making it harder to remember what they’ve learned or follow instructions.

Signs to watch for: Your child may forget homework instructions, struggle to retain new concepts, or perform poorly on tests despite studying.

3. Lack of Motivation and Energy

If your child feels emotionally drained, school can feel like an impossible task. Motivation may even be low even for subjects they usually enjoy.

Signs to watch for: They might stop trying, rush through homework, or say things like “what’s the point?”

4. Increased Absenteeism

Mental health challenges often come with physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue, leading to more missed school days.

Signs to watch for: Frequent “sick days” or vague complaints about not feeling well can sometimes signal emotional stress.

5. Low Confidence and Self-Esteem

When kids struggle emotionally, they may begin to doubt their abilities and feel like they’re “not good at school.”

Signs to watch for: Listen for negative self-talk like “I’m dumb” or “I’ll never get this.” That inner dialogue can directly impact academic performance.

6. Difficulty Staying Organized

Mental health issues can affect executive functioning—skills like planning, organizing, and managing time.

Signs to watch for: Your child may frequently lose materials, forget due dates, or seem overwhelmed by basic school routines.

7. Withdrawing from Friends or Teachers

A child experiencing mental health struggles may pull away from others at school, leading to isolation and less classroom participation.

Signs to watch for: You might hear that they’re sitting alone at lunch, avoiding group work, or no longer wanting to talk about school at all.

What You Can Do

Mental health affects learning; they are deeply connected. The more emotionally supported a child feels, the more they’re able to thrive academically.

If you notice any of the signs above, it doesn’t mean your child is failing—it may simply mean they need extra support. 

Here are some steps you can take:

• Start the conversation by gently asking your child how they’re feeling.
• Build a consistent daily routine can provide a sense of safety and structure.
• Reach out and talk to teachers or school staff about what you’re noticing.
• Get professional help if needed such as a pediatrician or child therapist. They can help assess and support your child’s emotional needs.

Your child’s mental well-being is the foundation for their learning success. By supporting them emotionally, you’re also supporting their academic future.

Taking care of your and your child’s mental health is important. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted professional or contact your local support services.

Resources worth knowing:

• Canadian Mental Health Association (Canada)
• Mental Health America (United States) 
• Crisis Text Line—Text HOME to 741741 (Canada and United States)

The post What Parents Need to Know About How Mental Health Affects Learning appeared first on Oxford Learning.

It’s called the spring learning slump, and it’s real. As the school year winds down, students may start to lose focus, disengage from their studies, and see a drop in academic performance. But these final weeks are still crucial. Report cards, standardized tests, and year-end projects are all still to come, and ending the school year on a strong note can make a big difference.

Here’s how to help students push through the spring learning slump, stay engaged, and finish strong.

6 Spring Learning Slump Remedies 

1. Break Down Big Goals Into Smaller Wins

When the end of the year feels far away, it’s easy to lose sight of what needs to get done. Help students avoid feeling overwhelmed by setting weekly or even daily goals.

Instead of focusing on a final grade, try making the goal smaller and simpler:

• “I’ll review my math notes for 15 minutes each day.”
• “I’ll finish my project outline by Wednesday.”
• “I’ll ask one question in class this week.”

Small goals build momentum and give students a sense of progress, which can be incredibly motivating when energy is low.

2. Refresh Routines and Stop the Spring Learning Slump

Routines can get stale by spring, which is why the spring learning slump happens. Students may feel stuck in the same routine of wake-up, school, homework, and sleep. A little variety can go a long way.

Try switching up:

• Study locations (a sunny spot, the library, even outside)
• Study tools (use flashcards, apps, or voice recordings)
• Study styles (teach the material to someone else, turn it into a game)

Even small tweaks, like using colourful highlighters or creating a countdown calendar, can help make study time more manageable and fun.

3. Stay Consistent with Habits

Spring schedules can be chaotic—between sports, family events, and nicer weather, routines can fall by the wayside. However, consistent habits are key to finishing the year successfully.

Encourage students to:

• Keep regular sleep and wake-up times
• Set designated times for homework and screen use
• Stick to healthy eating and exercise habits

Having a predictable daily rhythm helps reduce stress and gives the brain the consistency it needs to learn effectively, especially when everything else feels like it’s in motion.

Check out these four bad habits that every student should avoid.

4. Address Academic Gaps Now

Spring isn’t the time to check out—it’s the time to check in. How is your child doing in each subject? Are there any lingering concepts that haven’t quite clicked?

If students are struggling, now is the best time to tackle those challenges head-on before final grades are set and before summer learning loss begins. The sooner extra help is introduced, the more time students have to strengthen their understanding and build confidence.

5. Connect Learning to Real Life

Reignite student curiosity by making learning feel relevant and fun again. Spring is the perfect time to connect classroom content with real-world experiences.

Try activities like:

• Measuring a garden to practise geometry
• Keeping a weather journal to explore science
• Reading recipes to learn fractions and following instructions
• Visiting a local museum or science center for inspiration

Students who see how school connects to their everyday lives are more likely to stay engaged.

6. Lean on Support Systems

When motivation dips, having someone else in your corner can make all the difference. Whether it’s a teacher, parent, tutor, or mentor, supportive adults can help students:

• Set realistic goals
• Stay accountable
• Celebrate progress

Tutors, in particular, can personalize instruction, provide encouragement, and offer fresh strategies to help students overcome spring fatigue and stay focused until the last day of school.

Avoid the Spring Learning Slump and Spring Forward with Confidence

The final months of the school year aren’t just about finishing—they’re about building confidence for the next grade level. Students who stay engaged in the spring are better prepared for the challenges of the next school year and less likely to experience learning loss over the summer.

Spring may bring distraction, but it also brings opportunity: a chance to reset, refocus, and finish strong.

Need support to help your child spring forward, not fall behind? Our tutors are here to help students stay motivated, master key skills, and confidently finish the school year. Reach out today to learn more.

Learn More

The post Spring Learning Slump—How to Stay Focused as the School Year Winds Down appeared first on Oxford Learning.

It’s important to know that not every student who has a hard time focusing in school has a learning difficulty, such as ADD or ADHD. In many cases, child concentration issues in school can be caused by a variety of reasons.

Signs of a Concentration Problem

Common signs that your child is having trouble concentrating in the classroom include:

• Low grades
• A dislike of school
• Disruptive behaviour in class

These signs don’t automatically mean your child has a learning difficulty. Before you start looking for solutions, the first step is to identify the reasons your child is having trouble focusing in school. Here are some of the biggest reasons students have a hard time paying attention in class (that aren’t ADD/ADHD).

10 Reasons Your Child Has Concentration Issues in School

1. Lack of Practice

Many young children have a hard time focusing in the classroom simply because they are in a new environment. This can also happen to older children after a break from school, such as March break or summer holidays.

2. Doesn’t Understand the Material

What might look like a lack of concentration could actually be a lack of understanding the material. This lack of understanding can lead students to stop paying attention, and consequently falling further behind.

3. Isn’t Being Challenged Enough

For some children, what is being taught in class isn’t challenging enough. Children who are not challenged at a high enough level can lose interest in the material and stop paying attention altogether.

4. Distracted by External Stimuli

The classroom can be a place full of distractions, from chatty classmates to a cluttered workstation. Some children have a harder time than others filtering out these distractions, making paying attention to the teacher more challenging.

5. Lack of Motivation

In some cases, your child’s concentration problem may actually be a motivation problem. This lack of motivation can lead to a number of issues in the classroom—including disinterest in the material.

6. Mismatched Learning Style

Different students have different learning styles: some learn best by seeing, some by hearing, and others by doing. If your child’s teacher emphasizes a learning style that doesn’t match with how your child learns, this can result in a lack of focus and understanding.

7. Not Getting Proper Sleep or Nutrition

If your child is not getting the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep each night, they won’t have the energy needed to concentrate in class. Skipping breakfast is another big cause of lack of focus in class. If your child is heading to class hungry, they are more apt to be distracted than learning-ready.

8. Disorganization Problems

A disorganized notebook or workspace can be a cause of distractions for students. Coming to class disorganized means your child is spending time searching for the tools and materials needed to learn rather than paying attention to what is being taught.

9. School Anxiety

Anxiety about school or grades can be another deeper issue leading to a lack of focus in the classroom. Students who are overwhelmed or stressed by a subject may simply check out, leading to dropping grades and confidence.

Learn more on signs and how to overcome school anxiety here.

10. Learning Difficulties

If your child is having severe problems in the classroom, such as constant disruptions, distractions, or poor grades, and you have ruled out the other items on this list, it could be time to look into possible learning difficulties. In some cases, these children may have learning difficulties such as ADD, ADHD, or Dyslexia. They may also have auditory issues such as CAPD (Central Auditory Discrimination Disorder). Each of these can be addressed with the help of a tutor and a learning plan so your child can improve their focus and succeed in the classroom.

Start Overcoming Distractions

Once you know what’s causing your child’s focus issues, you’re ready to start making a plan to overcome them. For more tips on how to help your child improve their concentration skills, check out these tips from the experts.

By understanding and addressing the root causes of child concentration issues in school, parents and educators can help children build the focus and skills they need to succeed academically and beyond. Oxford Learning can help—find a location near you. 

Find a Location

The post 10 Reasons Your Child Can’t Concentrate In School (That Aren’t ADD) appeared first on Oxford Learning.

But when students struggle to pay attention in class, parents can wonder if their child could have a learning difficulty such as ADHD.

But, it’s important to keep in mind that not every student who struggles with attention has ADHD. In fact, there are many reasons that students might struggle with paying attention.

Signs Of Concentration Struggles

Common signs that your child is having trouble concentrating in the classroom include:

• Low grades
• A dislike of school
• Disruptive behaviour in class

These signs don’t automatically mean your child has a learning difficulty. Before you start looking for solutions, the first step is to identify the reasons your child is having trouble focusing in school.

9 Reasons Your Child Is Having Trouble Paying Attention In School

1. Lack of practice. Many young children have a hard time focusing in the classroom simply because they are in a new environment. This can also happen to older children after a break from school, such as March break or summer holidays.
   
2. Doesn’t understand the material. What might look like a lack of concentration could actually be a lack of understanding of the material. This lack of understanding can lead students to stop paying attention and consequently fall further behind.
   
3. Need to be challenged more. The subject material in class may need to be more challenging for some children. Children needing high-level challenges in school can lose interest in the material and stop paying attention.
   
4. Distracted by external stimuli. The classroom can be a place full of distractions, from chatty classmates to a cluttered workstation. Some children have a harder time than others filtering out these distractions, making paying attention to the teacher more challenging.
   
5. Lack of motivation. In some cases, your child’s concentration problem may actually be a motivation problem. This lack of motivation can lead to a number of issues in the classroom—including disinterest in the material.
   
6. Mismatched learning style. Different students have different learning styles: some learn best by seeing, some by hearing, and others by doing.
   
7. Lacking proper sleep or nutrition. If your child is not getting the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep each night, they won’t have the energy needed to concentrate in class.
   
8. Disorganization Problems. A disorganized notebook or workspace can distract students. Students who are disorganized in class spend time searching for supplies and materials rather than paying attention to the teacher and the lesson.
   
9. School Anxiety. Students who are overwhelmed by a subject may simply check out, leading to dropping grades and confidence.

Solutions for Success

If your child is having severe problems in the classroom, such as constant disruptions, distractions, or poor grades, and you have ruled out the other items on this list, it could be time to look into possible learning difficulties.

In some cases, these children may have learning difficulties such as ADD, ADHD, or Dyslexia. They may also have auditory issues such as CAPD (Central Auditory Discrimination Disorder). Each of these can be addressed with the help of a tutor and learning plan so your child can improve their focus and succeed in the classroom.

Once you know what’s causing your child’s focus issues, you’re ready to start making a plan to overcome it. For a personalized learning plan to help your child succeed, contact a local Oxford Learning location today.

The post Nine Reasons Kids Struggle With Paying Attention in Class appeared first on Oxford Learning.

ADHD is the term applied to someone who typically has trouble paying attention, staying still, and controlling their impulses, issues that can affect their ability to focus, stay organized, and manage daily tasks. It’s important to remember that ADHD differs for each person, so personalized help and strategies are necessary.

Understanding ADHD & Students

There are two main types of ADHD:

• Inattentive
• Hyperactive-impulsive 

People with inattentive ADHD may struggle with maintaining focus, organization, and time management. In contrast, those with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD may exhibit restlessness, impulsive behaviour, and difficulty in following instructions.

The Impact of ADHD on Learning

ADHD can significantly affect a student’s academic performance and overall learning experience. Students with ADHD may encounter several challenges, such as:

1. Inattention: Trouble focusing on tasks, following instructions, or finishing assignments
2. Impulsivity: Acting without thinking can result in unfinished work or disruptive classroom behaviour
3. Hyperactivity: Restlessness and fidgeting make staying seated and engaged in class hard
4. Time management: Difficulty managing time well and meeting deadlines
5. Organizational issues: Trouble keeping track of assignments, materials, and schedules

How Tutoring Can Help

Individualized Learning Plans

One of the primary benefits of tutoring for students with ADHD is the opportunity to create personalized learning plans. These plans can address each student’s specific needs and challenges, adapting teaching methods and materials accordingly.

One-on-One Attention

Tutoring provides a one-on-one learning experience which allows students to receive undivided attention from their tutor. Learning in a tutoring centre minimizes distractions and helps the student focus, making it a valuable support system for students with ADHD.

Structured and Consistent Routine

Tutors can create a structured routine and study schedules. Creating structure for ADHD students helps develop better time management and organizational skills. Consistency is important for students with ADHD, and this structured approach can greatly improve their ability to stay organized and manage their time effectively.

Multi-Sensory Teaching

Tutors can help students with ADHD by incorporating multi-sensory teaching techniques. By engaging students with ADHD through various senses, such as visual, auditory, and tactile methods, can enhance comprehension and retention.

Breaks and Movement

Recognizing the need for breaks and movement, tutors can implement short breaks during sessions to accommodate the restlessness and hyperactivity often associated with ADHD. These breaks can help students recharge and refocus.

Positive Reinforcement

Using positive reinforcement, tutors can motivate and reward students for their achievements and efforts. Using positive reinforcement, tutors can boost a student’s self-esteem and confidence, providing essential emotional support alongside academic assistance.

Study Strategies

Tutors can teach students useful study methods and how to stay organized, giving them valuable skills to handle their schoolwork more effectively. This kind of support is especially important for students with ADHD.

Oxford Learning is Here To Help 

ADHD can be tough for students, but they can do well in school with the right help.

A tutoring program at Oxford Learning is a great option for students with ADHD. It provides personal attention, custom learning plans, and useful tools to tackle academic challenges.

By focusing on each student’s unique needs, tutoring can help individuals with ADHD reach their full potential and succeed in their education.

Find a Location Near You

The post How Tutoring Can Help Students with ADHD appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Learning can be challenging for students with autism, but with the right support from educators, tutors, and parents, and an inclusive learning environment, all students can overcome their learning challenges.

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

ASD is a lifelong condition that typically becomes evident in early childhood. 

It is characterized by differences in social communication and interaction and restricted and repetitive behaviours or interests. People with ASD may have varying levels of impairment, which is why it’s referred to as a spectrum disorder.

The Impact of Autism Spectrum Disorder on Students

For students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, it’s essential to recognize that severity and nature can vary significantly, creating a mosaic of unique needs and experiences. Understanding the full range of these challenges is crucial for parents and tutors to provide effective support.

In some cases, students with ASD might encounter substantial difficulties in in-class communication. For these students, navigating the intricate dance of verbal and non-verbal interactions can feel like deciphering a complex code. 

Simple social exchanges, such as initiating conversations, maintaining eye contact, or understanding sarcasm, can pose significant hurdles. This communication barrier affects their ability to engage with peers and inhibits active participation in classroom discussions. As a result, they may feel isolated and struggle to express their thoughts and ideas effectively.

On the other end of the spectrum, many students with ASD contend with sensory sensitivities that amplify their challenges in a typical classroom environment. 

These sensitivities can manifest as heightened responses to various sensory stimuli, such as overly bright fluorescent lights, loud and abrupt noises, or certain textures and fabrics. These sensory distractions can be distracting and genuinely distressing, making it challenging for these students to focus and engage in learning activities.

Consequently, with its bustling classrooms, complex social dynamics, and sensory-rich environment, the traditional academic setting can often overwhelm students with ASD, so many parents turn to tutoring programs like Oxford Learning.

Challenges Faced by Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

1. Social Communication: One of the core challenges for individuals with ASD is difficulty with social communication. This can make it challenging for them to engage in classroom discussions, make friends, or understand non-verbal cues.

2. Sensory Sensitivities: Sensory sensitivities are common among individuals with ASD. They may be hypersensitive to certain sensory stimuli, such as bright lights, loud noises, or certain textures. These sensitivities can be highly distracting in a typical classroom setting.

3. Repetitive Behaviors: Some students with ASD engage in repetitive behaviours or rituals, such as hand-flapping or rocking, which can be disruptive in a classroom environment.

4. Difficulty with Change: Many individuals with ASD thrive on routine and predictability. Sudden changes in schedules or routines can be distressing for them.

Check out these accommodations that could be made to help students with ASD.

The Role Tutoring Can Play

Tutoring can be crucial in supporting students with ASD in their educational journey. Here’s how tutoring can make a positive impact:

Allows for Individualized Instruction

Tutors can provide one-on-one instruction tailored to the specific needs and learning styles of each student with ASD. This individualized approach allows for personalized attention and the flexibility to adapt teaching methods to match the student’s strengths and challenges.

Builds Social Skills Development

Tutors can incorporate social skills training into their sessions, helping students with ASD improve their communication, interaction, and relationship-building skills.

Sensory-Friendly Learning

Tutors can create a sensory-friendly learning environment that minimizes distractions and provides sensory tools to help students regulate their sensory experiences during tutoring sessions.

Progress Monitoring

Tutors can closely monitor students’ progress and adjust their teaching methods and materials accordingly. This ongoing assessment ensures that the student continues to make academic and developmental strides.

Gives Students Consistency and Predictability

Tutors can establish consistent routines and expectations, which can be particularly beneficial for students with ASD who thrive on predictability.

For students with ASD, the challenges they face in a traditional classroom setting can be significant. However, with understanding, support, and appropriate accommodations, educators and tutors can work together to create inclusive learning environments where students with ASD can thrive academically and socially. 

By recognizing the strengths and individuality of each student, we can promote a more inclusive and accepting educational experience for everyone, with tutoring serving as a valuable tool in this journey toward success.

Oxford Learning is Here To Help With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Teaching should be tailored to accommodate a diverse range of abilities and learning preferences, as everyone learns differently. Oxford Learning tutors prioritize enhancing students’ confidence and deepening their comprehension of the subject matter, regardless of the specific learning challenges each student may have.

Find a Location Near You

The post How Tutoring Benefits Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) appeared first on Oxford Learning.

Acting as a “management system” for our brains, executive function coordinates various tasks such as motivation, emotion, and attention. While different experts may categorize executive function differently, there is a consensus that working memory plays a crucial role in this cognitive process. 

What is Working Memory?

Working memory is the ability to hold and manipulate information in the mind for a short period of time. Working memory serves as a mental workspace, aiding in learning, reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving. 

We use working memory when we repeat a phone number to remember it or when we mentally organize a series of tasks. It allows us to temporarily hold information while performing other cognitive tasks, such as problem-solving, decision-making, or exercising self-control. source

This skill is important in many areas of life, from remembering to bring essentials such as phone, wallet, and keys. It is also vital in school for tasks such as:

• taking notes during a lecture
• following instructions,
• performing mental math

Development of Working Memory Skills

Children’s working memory skills develop as they grow. Younger children may struggle with following multi-step instructions or recognizing letter shapes and sounds. 

On the other hand, older children who have mastered these skills face more complex challenges in reading comprehension and self-directed learning. A strong working memory is evident when children refer to past experiences to guide them in new situations or when they shift activities within a specific task. 

Working memory enables individuals to reorganize thoughts or materials and control their attention, making it a valuable skill throughout life. Thankfully, various strategies can strengthen working memory for children and adults.

Addressing Working Memory Challenges

If your child struggles to remember instructions, loses track of details, or finds math particularly difficult, they may be experiencing difficulties with working memory. Deficits in working memory can lead to forgetfulness and challenges with completing tasks, impacting academic performance and future careers. 

Strategies to Strengthen Working Memory:

1. Scaffolding: Start by gradually adding small pieces of information to tasks, building upon existing comfort levels. This approach, known as scaffolding, helps students strengthen their working memory skills step by step.
2. Low-tech habits: Utilize tools such as sticky notes, paper calendars, planners, and to-do lists to reinforce working memory skills. Reviewing schedules with your child regularly can aid in processing and retaining information.
3. Repetition and reminders: Regular repetition and reminders can be helpful in reinforcing working memory. Creating structured routines and incorporating repetition into daily activities helps students retain information effectively.
4. High-tech tools: High-tech tools can provide valuable support for students with poor working memory skills. However, mastering the use of software, apps, and tools may require some time and effort. Training and using these technologies regularly are critical to their successful implementation.

Working memory, a crucial executive function, plays a fundamental role in our ability to learn, reason, and solve problems. Working memory is essential for success, from basic daily tasks to complex academic endeavours. 

Want to Learn More About Executive Function?  

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