Inspired to learn

I simply love working with my tutees Melissa* and Tammy*, who are both fourth grade girls with Down syndrome. Melissa always makes my Mondays so bright. She is simply amazing and in the last few months that I have worked with her, her reading has improved so much! I am so excited to see her progress more. I work with Tammy on math and writing on Tuesdays and I have also seen so much growth and progress as well. She is more open to feedback and is much better at organizing her writing. I feel privileged to work with these two girls.

I often onboard new tutors and am asked to give them such tips. I start every session with conversation, asking them about their week or day. I also give frequent breaks and try to incorporate their interests in the session. This can include playing a particular game if they work for X minutes or playing their favorite song. Tammy particularly loves showing me her dolls so I will allow her to “show and tell” for 5 minutes as a reward or break.  

I also tell the new tutors to set expectations high. Having a brother with Down syndrome and being around children with Down syndrome my whole life, I know that each child is different, with their own strengths and opportunities. It is important not to stereotype the kids or treat them differently than any other tutee you may work with.  

I also try to make learning fun and engaging with my tutees. I make sure to praise them specifically on what is going well. I don’t give general praise or praise they didn’t earn.  It is genuine because I think the kids know the difference. They love my enthusiasm and I love theirs.

I believe the Inspired to Learn program is amazing because it is a rewarding experience for both tutors and tutees. If you are considering ways to give back to the community, I would encourage you to volunteer. It’s also great because you don’t have to leave the home or travel anywhere and you can control the availability and timing. My friends from school who volunteer in this program also enjoy it very much.

For parents who are considering the program, you have nothing to lose except one hour of your time since the program is entirely free. To date, almost 100% of the parents to date have wanted to continue – even the ones that weren’t sure their child would do well in an online tutoring environment. I think the success of the program is due to the genuine enthusiasm of the tutors. No one is forcing them to do this. They are  all volunteers who specifically chose this opportunity as a way to give back to the community. 

-Phoebe

*Names have been changed to maintain confidentiality.