Using a check list to help students show up to a session prepared
Some students struggle to show up to a session prepared, which commonly manifests in one of the following ways:
Showing up to a session late
Showing up to a session with a device that is not charged (and spending a substantial amount of time finding a charger)
Showing up to a session in an environment that is not conducive to learning (ex, a car, park, etc.)
Forgetting to send over their homework before the session starts
For these students, creating a checklist of items they should complete before the tutoring session starts can be helpful since the list makes expectations and guidelines clear.
Tip 1. Create the list together
Children are always more motivated to do what they decide for themselves, so create the list together. Say, “Recently, we’ve had a couple of sessions where you were unprepared in this way. I know you want to do well in school, and tutoring helps with that. So, what are some things you can do to make sure you are ready for the session?”
Tip 2. Keep the list to three or fewer items
If the list is too long, students will become overwhelmed; it is better to start with a few items, so be realistic about what you can expect from them. If your student is struggling to show up to the session on a device that is charged, for example, s/he is probably not ready to send pictures of the homework assignment ahead of time. As the student becomes more responsible, you can revisit the list and increase your expectations.
Tip 3. Refer to the list at the beginning of EACH session, creating consistency and accountability
Consistency and accountability are essential for any habit-building, so refer to the list at the beginning of each session. Offer praise for the goals that were met. Review what they can do differently next time if they did not complete all the items on the checklist. Avoid language that places blame or negative judgment on them; a neutral, matter-of-fact tone will be the most beneficial.
Tip 4. Recruit students’ parents for support, especially if they are still young.
Younger children may be unable to manage their own schedules independently. Share a list of what you would find helpful for your session with the student’s parents, explaining why this would make a difference so the parents see a tangible benefit. For older children, receiving the same message from multiple adults can help reinforce the lesson.