10 Signs Your Child Needs Maths Tutoring

As a parent, it can be tough to know whether your child is genuinely struggling in maths or simply going through a temporary phase. But if you've started to notice some worrying trends — like declining grades, low confidence, or a lack of enthusiasm — it might be time to consider additional support.

Maths tutoring isn’t just for students who are failing; it’s for any child who could benefit from personalised guidance, confidence-building, and a stronger grasp of fundamental concepts. In this article, we’ll walk you through 10 key signs that your child might need maths tutoring — and why acting early can make a world of difference.

1. Your Child Is Struggling in Maths Class

If your child frequently feels overwhelmed, expresses frustration, or brings home poor test results, it’s a clear sign they’re not keeping up with the curriculum.

One-on-one maths tutoring offers a tailored learning environment where your child can learn at their own pace, revisit core concepts, and build strong foundational skills. With the right tutor, maths becomes less intimidating — and more manageable.

Explore Australia's top tutors who scored 98+ ATARs here.

2. Maths Homework Takes Too Long

Does a 30-minute homework task turn into a two-hour ordeal? If your child takes significantly longer than their peers to complete assignments, it may suggest that they’re not fully understanding the material.

A maths tutor can provide clear explanations, guided practice, and targeted support — helping your child complete homework more efficiently and with greater confidence.

3. Your Child Dreads Maths Class

If your child consistently shows a lack of interest in maths or avoids it altogether, it’s worth investigating further. Disengagement is often rooted in confusion or a fear of failure.

Maths tutoring can reignite your child’s motivation by making learning more accessible, enjoyable, and success-driven. When students start to see progress, their attitude shifts.

4. There’s a Noticeable Drop in Grades

Falling grades in maths can indicate a lack of understanding of key concepts — or gaps from previous years that haven’t been addressed.

A qualified tutor can review past assessments, identify areas of weakness, and help your child rebuild their skills. With regular support, many students not only recover but excel.

How to Understand Your Child’s School Report for the Australian School Curriculum
School reports can be a powerful tool to help you understand your child’s progress — but let’s be honest, they’re not always easy to decode. Here is your ultimate guide to navigate and comprehend your child’s school report to help understand how to support them best.

If your child’s teacher has suggested tutoring, it’s not something to overlook. Teachers see your child’s progress every day — and their recommendation is based on both classroom performance and behaviour.

Tutoring can help reinforce class content, provide additional practice, and boost confidence — especially when done consistently.

💻 Choose from online or in-person tutors based on your family’s needs.

6. You Want to Give Your Child the Best Chance to Succeed

Many parents choose tutoring not because their child is failing, but because they want to maximise their academic potential.

Whether your child is aiming for a top selective school, a strong ATAR, or simply a better grasp of maths, tutoring can provide the personalised support to help them get there.

📈 Discover top selective school preparation programs here.

7. They’re Struggling to Make Friends at School

You might not think social struggles have anything to do with maths, but confidence in learning can significantly affect a child’s interactions.

Students who feel competent in the classroom are more likely to engage with peers, speak up in group work, and participate fully in school life. Tutoring can help your child develop that quiet confidence.

8. They’re Being Teased or Bullied

Children who fall behind academically may become targets for teasing or bullying — particularly in subjects like maths that are often seen as competitive.

Tutoring not only supports academic progress but also helps rebuild confidence, giving your child the resilience to navigate school more positively.

9. Their Confidence Has Taken a Hit

Have you noticed your child doubting themselves more than usual? Avoiding schoolwork or feeling “not smart enough”? A drop in self-esteem can be directly tied to academic challenges — especially in maths.

Tutoring offers a safe space for students to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow without judgment. Over time, this builds a stronger sense of self-belief.

10. Your Child Is Acting Out at Home or School

Changes in behaviour — like frustration, mood swings, or shutting down — can sometimes be a reaction to academic stress. If maths has become a consistent trigger, it’s time to intervene.

A good tutor can reduce pressure, clarify difficult topics, and help your child feel in control again — both academically and emotionally.

Final Thoughts

Every child learns differently, and sometimes all they need is a little extra support to thrive. If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, it may be time to explore maths tutoring.

At KIS Academics, we’re committed to helping students gain confidence, improve their understanding, and perform at their best. We’ll match your child with a top-performing tutor who aligns with their learning style and needs.

🎯 Book a free consultation today to discover how we can help your child succeed in maths — and beyond.

FAQs

What age is best to start maths tutoring?

It’s never too early! Many students begin in primary school to build strong foundations, while others start in high school to prep for assessments or selective school exams.

What if my child already does well in school?

Even strong students benefit from tutoring. Advanced learners thrive with enrichment activities and tailored challenges that go beyond the classroom.

Can online tutoring really be effective?

Yes! Our online tutors use interactive tools and proven strategies to keep students engaged. Many parents love the convenience and flexibility of online learning.

Thirteen books that will make your child fall in love with reading
Finding the perfect reading list is crucial to ensuring your child becomes passionate about reading and literature. So here’s a list of 13 reads that will get your child away from the tablet and into a book!

Want personalised study guidance to help drastically improve your marks? A private tutor can make the biggest difference!