Helping Kids Discover Their Potential

If a person were to list what they expect when being a tutor, I do not think that 'increasing a child's confidence' would be one of the first things mentioned. I think this is an aspect of tutoring which is not discussed enough. Though, primarily, our jobs are to educate, education cannot be done effectively without confidence, and a belief that a child even has the potential to learn.

There is something truly special and rewarding about being part of a child's learning journey. While I can understand that there is a curriculum which needs to be followed and tests to be studied for, the most valuable tool a tutor can give to a child is the belief that they can learn. That they are intelligent enough to study for a test, or complete an assignment, or answer difficult questions. A child needs to be believe in their own potential, just as much as the tutor does.

The notion that education is about academics, or knowledge, is an ignorant one. Education is about learning, and learning is so much more than gaining knowledge. It's about shaping character, building confidence, and sparking curiosity. I believe that education is about helping young people develop into good, well-rounded, critical thinkers. When we encourage kids to ask questions, think creatively, and explore their ideas, we are giving them tools they will use for life. There is nothing quite as rewarding as seeing an unsure child grow into someone confident and secure.

Of course, this is a monumental task. To help guide a person, is a task that requires patience and a high level of effort. There are days when progress feels slow. Sometimes you can see the potential so clearly in a student, but they are unable to see it themselves -- which can sometimes be the most frustrating part. But over time, progress will happen.

At the end of the day, teaching is about planting seeds in a garden that you might never see fully grow, As the famous saying goes, it is not about the destination, but the journey.