strides advice

High school algebra is a huge hurdle for so many teens. In recent years we have seen a significant weakness that seems to hold many STRIDES’ algebra students back: Fractions. Go back in time and think about when your high schooler was in 4th grade, tackling fractions for the first time. Far too often, the …

Your child knows the material at home, but fails the test over and over. What to do about test anxiety? Not all anxiety is harmful. Researchers divide anxiety into good anxiety (drive to succeed) and bad anxiety (paralyzing panic). Here are some tips to help your child:Think of anxiety as a bad habit, and find …

Four years ago we worked with Marc, a 3rd grader, and he rose to 2nd grade level. Sadly, mom took him out early. This summer, his dad brought him back. We tested him at 2nd grade — exactly where he’d been four years ago!  A cheerful and hard worker, Marc put his best efforts into …

Frustration! We all get it, and our kids are just like us. Here at STRIDES Systematic Tutoring parents (and kids) tell us that frustration with homework is one of their major headaches. Here are some ideas: Start with a snack after school. Your child’s brain uses a lot of calories in a school day, and …

Last week a parent called STRIDES Tutoring to ask about magnet schools. Many parents find the concept confusing, but it’s merely the effort of public educators to reach all students by using new approaches. A magnet school is a public school, so your child may attend free. However, you must apply for your student to …

Do you recognize the following scenario? You and your child study test material thoroughly at home. Your child knows the material well, but fails the test over and over at school. If this scenario sounds familiar to you, your child may suffer from test anxiety. Don’t worry; not all anxiety is harmful. Researchers divide anxiety …