When most people think of tutoring, they picture a student who’s falling behind and needs extra help to catch up. But what about the student who’s already ahead? When a student is gifted, it doesn’t mean that they’re done learning. If your child is gifted, tutoring might still be one of the most valuable tools for their growth.

Gifted students often grasp concepts faster than their peers and may not need repetition or review. While this sounds ideal, it can actually lead to frustration and boredom in the classroom. Without enough stimulation, gifted learners can lose motivation, daydream, or disengage entirely. In some cases, gifted children may even underperform, not because they lack ability, but because they aren’t being challenged. A lack of academic stretch can lead to bad habits like procrastination, perfectionism, or a fear of failure.

In these cases, high-achieving students benefit from personalized tutoring that’s not just about catching up, and is focused on going further. One-on-one tutoring is designed to be able to cater differently to each student, and for gifted students, it can extend them in a number of ways. Tutors are able to accelerate and move ahead in subjects where gifted students have already mastered the current curriculum. They’re also able to use tutoring sessions to dive deeper into topics that interest the student, whether it’s creative writing or advanced maths. A skilled tutor can adjust the pace, level, and content to meet your gifted students exactly where they are, taking them beyond what’s available in a standard classroom.

Gifted students may also struggle socially or emotionally. They might feel out of place with peers or face pressure to always perform at a high level. Tutoring can provide a safe, supportive environment where students are encouraged to take risks, make mistakes, and grow. Tutors can also help gifted students set goals, manage time, and stay engaged without burning out.

Ceara Kearnes