My philosophy for tutoring children comes from my background as both a co-teacher and a graduate of English. I have never formally taught English, but have worked in both public and private settings. In a montessori classroom I worked as a co-teacher, where it was my responsibilty to ensure the children learn the necessary skills in language arts in order to move onto the next grade level. Often that responsiblity and experience lead me to teaching in the classroom. The majority of my experience in schools is with children ages 5-12. But I currently tutor children at the highschool level. My own love and knowledge of English, both in high school and college, gave me the experience I need to tutor children in the very skills I mastered and loved with absolute passion and confidence. Based on my experiences assessing children and their skills, I have come to the conclusion that if a child has a weakness in one area of writing or grammar, it can go unnoticed and underdeveloped well on into the college years. In order to re-engage the child with their individual weakness, I use psychological methods that employ humor, trust and relationship building. Academically, I create individual lessons to stimulate the area with which a child needs help. Whether the child is doing creative timed writings, grammar work or essays, I keep them conscious of their methods. I watch them work and then work with them to keep them aware of how they write. Often children engage in what I call "selfish writing," writing without acknowledgment of the reader (which in an academic setting, the reader is often the teacher). This selfish writing is acceptable when the child is journaling or writing for themselves. In an academic setting, this will often not meet the professor's expectations, especially if within the guidelines of an exam or test. This can be both frustrating and challenging for the student at hand. What I try to concentrate on with the student- is to get them to tune in with the teacher's needs, focus on form and function, while at the same time keep the child conscious of the goals of what they are writing--hopefully they are enjoying themselves at the same time! Children need to learn that being a great and successful writer takes time and work. Not only will it bring them get better grades and feel more confident, it will also make them better communicators, both in school and society. In their adult life it will make them better workers, creators and citizens of their community. Writing is a part of everyday life and often children feel that it is a "school thing." They need to know it is a life long commitment, and that it takes encouragement and practice to develop! I work with all aged children in all areas-- from phonics to philosophy, I am there to learn with your child. Email Jessica with any questions. Or call: 760-402-9969 or Visit the home page for MJTutors Rates & Services.