In tutoring, especially with younger children, the smallest victories can lead to the biggest breakthroughs. While of course, learning and mastering content is crucial, building confidence is so so important. A child who genuinely believes and feels they can solve a problem is far more likely to keep trying, particularly when the work gets harder and more dense in older years.

Small wins, for example correctly spelling a tricky word or finally understanding simplifying fractions (without a calculator), create a strong sense of progress. These moments reinforce the idea that learning isn’t about instant perfection—it’s about growth, and is something they can achieve. When a tutor celebrates these little achievements, a student starts to internalise the mindset that they are capable, and that continued effort leads to success.
For younger children, this is especially vital. Their academic self-esteem is still forming, and early experiences with learning will shape how they approach challenges later in life. If they associate schoolwork with failure or frustration, they may disengage and give up. But, if they see learning as a process where persistence pays off, they’ll develop resilience—one of the most valuable skills they can carry forward.

Confidence fuels motivation. Instead of just focusing on correcting mistakes, it is important that we, as tutors, focus on celebrating progress! Over time, these small wins accumulate, turning hesitant learners into engaged, self-assured students.

Ultimately, tutoring isn’t only about teaching content—it’s about shaping a child’s belief in their own abilities, and allowing them to love what they are doing!!

Shyla Gloster