The Tutoring Shed

03/25/2026

Words matter. Like little pebbles, they build and grow until kids are buried in self-doubt.

11/27/2025

Here's to a safe and happy Thanksgiving! 🍗🦃🍗

10/13/2025

Asking why and learning where aspects of our language come from, whether it's etymology or the lesser-known facts, not only helps with spelling but it also creates moments where the student can be the teacher. It's also just plain cool!

This is wonderful! Everything from the period to the ampersand!

Take our audience survey here: https://to.pbs.org/2025SurveyOTHRThere was a time when written words were all scrunched together without any spaces or symbols...

08/25/2025

"Read every day this week for fifteen minutes to get a prize."
OR
"Read for a total of 105 minutes to get a prize."

They are the same goal, but the first is limited, restricting, and all-or-nothing; whereas the second sounds achievable and allows for off days.

08/18/2025

Now that school is back in session, testing has started again. Remember, tests are a snapshot. They are more than what a student knows. They reflect their state at the time. For example, if testing happens during team tryouts or after a stressful weekend, the results will be skewed.

If you can, track any outside influences that may affect testing and note any comments your student makes about their test experience (noise, rushing to finish, skipping lunch...).

When the results arrive, look for:
Growth or consistency when compared to previous tests
Self-reflection/ awareness
Following modifications or asking for them

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08/12/2025

Congrats! We made it through the summer, hopefully unscathed and full of wonderful memories.

To ease transitioning:

1. Start rehearsing for school, especially the morning routine.

2. Clump to-dos to ease chaos, or make silly rhymes to move things along. "Wash my face and my teeth, grab my clothes, let's go eat!"

3. Practice talking about accommodations and how to talk to adults about them; be sure to also discuss any strengths and how they support your student's learning. For example, "I have trouble remembering what I read." BUT "I have an awesome memory when I am told something."

4. Look into snacks, especially with a little protein.

5. Set up an "Off to school spot" by your door where bookbags, shoes, coats, etc. can live.

6. BREATHE! You've got this.

Here's to a great start to a great school year!

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