Should I Tutor My Child Or Sign Them Up For Tuition?

It’s a question many parents have asked—and one that new parents of school-going children often wonder about: Is it enough to tutor my own child, or should I enrol them in a tuition class?

This dilemma becomes even more pressing as your child approaches their PSLE year, when academic demands increase and the stakes feel much higher.

While coaching your own child certainly has its advantages, many parents in Singapore still prefer to engage professional tutors. Below, we explore the reasons behind these choices, along with the pros and cons of each approach.

Advantages of tutoring your own child

Parents who have a strong background in the subject—or experience in teaching—may find it easy to pick up the PSLE content and guide their child through it.

As a parent, you also have the advantage of already understanding your child’s learning style, behaviour, and emotional needs. This familiarity can help you tailor lessons and motivate them in ways that are unique to your relationship.

Another appealing factor is cost – but only if you are already a stay-home parent. Tutoring your own child may be a more affordable option compared to monthly tuition fees. With just a few assessment books, you can stay actively involved in their learning journey.

Challenges with tutoring your own child

However, home tutoring is not always practical—especially for busy parents. After a long day at work, spending your evenings teaching can quickly lead to burnout, leaving little time or energy for quality bonding.

Even if you try to pick up the content, you might not know the preferred methods that schools are teaching the children. Many parents find themselves confused by the answering techniques, heuristics, and marking formats. As a result, they may unintentionally confuse their child or skip over important details needed for exams.

The parent-child dynamic can also complicate things. Some children may not take instructions from a parent as seriously as they would from a tutor. Others may feel additional pressure, leading to frustration or tension at home. In some families, tutoring quickly becomes a source of conflict rather than progress.

So while home tutoring may seem like a convenient and cost-effective choice, it can be more challenging – and more emotionally taxing – than it appears.

Advantages of enrolling your child in tuition

Despite the commitment and financial investment, many parents find that enrolling their child in tuition in Singapore ultimately offers more benefits and peace of mind.

Experienced tutors – whether they are ex-MOE teachers, subject specialists, or long-time educators – bring with them:

• Deep subject knowledge
• Updated understanding of exam formats
• Effective teaching strategies
• Experience working with different learning styles

These tutors are trained to present concepts clearly, correct misconceptions, and engage students in ways that build both competence and confidence. They also know how to prepare students specifically for the PSLE question types, which can be challenging to teach without experience.

For parents, primary school tuition also removes a major source of stress. Instead of spending your evenings trying to reteach schoolwork, you can focus on spending quality time with your child—free from academic pressure.

Partnering with a tutor to help your child

Even with a tutor’s support, parents still play an important role. Lessons typically take place once a week, so staying informed about your child’s learning can make a meaningful difference.

You don’t need to become the main teacher, but you can:

• Ask them about what they learned
• Encourage them to revise new concepts
• Guide them in following a study timetable
• Sit with younger children while they do homework
• Communicate with tutors about your child’s academic progress or struggles

At Future Academy, we value close collaboration with parents. When families share their child’s challenges, school feedback, or learning habits at home, our tutors can provide more targeted support – ensuring every student receives the personalised guidance they need.

Conclusion

Choosing whether or not to hire a tutor is ultimately your choice – while considering factors like finances, time, ability, and what’s best for your child. If you have concerns about your child’s academics, or especially if they are approaching an important year like their PSLE year, our experienced tutors at Future Academy are happy to take the load off your shoulders and get them properly equipped for their upcoming exams.

Not sure when’s the best time to start? Book now to secure your spot as class spaces are limited!

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