1. Make The Time - You have to really want to be working with people and teaching them how to read to be involved with this class. The type of tutoring experience one has is dependent on their time commitment. Don't expect to put the minimum amount of time and energy into this class or the people that you are working with. Everyone deserves 110% ! The more you are willing to put forth the more wonderful learning and teaching moments you will experience! So donít expect to rush to your site and stay for only a short while. Don't expect not to become attached to the people you are working with. Make the time to sit down and really experience reading and the connections you can make with another person- or classroom of children. The adventure you're about to embark upon is so richly rewarding!
2. Be Respectful- It's very important to remember that you are a representative of the University. Your actions and attitudes will help to create a liaison between the University and your placement. It is important to realize that the teachers or staff that you are working with are very knowledgeable in their careers. If they have suggestions for you, listen to them! Use them as a resource to better your tutoring strategies. The students or people that you are tutoring are wonderful resources as well. Learn from them! I learned by watching my first graders that in order to make them feel comfortable with the reading environment, I would let them sit in the big swivel chair in the teachers office while they read to me. I sat in the little plastic kid's chair. This move showed that I respected the first graders and wanted them to feel like we were on the same level. Little tricks like these can make a world of difference!
3. Work Enthusiastically With Others- It's very important to leave whatever kind of day you are having behind. If you are having a bad day leave it at the door as soon as you walk in! It's not fair to take your mood out on those you are working with- ultimately because it could affect their response to your tutoring hence making the entire session less effective. Like I've said before you are an ambassador of sorts of this program to the public. You are a representative of the University. Besides, working and having fun with your work just increases your experience. By working enthusiastically with the children, people etc. surrounding you, you will have a terrific experience.
4. Remember to Appreciate Being Whatever Age You Are Tutoring- Sometimes it's hard to remember what it was like to be in the first grade, third grade, eighth grade or even a high schooler. It's of utmost importance to remember just how hard it was to be a kid. Put yourself in the place of the person you are tutoring. Adjust your tutoring and interactions with the students. Don't be afraid to act silly and tell jokes. Giggle with your charges! And if they are feeling grumpy or something is wrong don't be afraid to ask them what is wrong. It's important to establish relationships- trusting relationships with those you are working with. Appreciate the age and if you feel like it act it!