Many students struggle with regrouping (borrowing), especially with multi-digit numbers or when zeros are involved. Others confuse subtraction with addition or have weak number sense that makes it hard to estimate if an answer is reasonable.

Some students also rush through problems without checking work, leading to careless errors on assessments. A tutor can slow down the process, build conceptual understanding, and teach strategies like counting up or using number lines—whatever approach clicks for each learner.

In a classroom with a 17.6:1 student-teacher ratio like Phoenix's average, teachers must move at one pace for all students. Tutoring lets your child spend focused time on exactly what they need—whether that's concrete manipulatives to visualize regrouping, repeated practice on tricky problems, or confidence-building through real-world subtraction scenarios.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who can adjust their teaching style, slow down or speed up, and celebrate small wins in a way that builds mathematical thinking, not just memorization.

Many students see noticeable improvement within 3-4 weeks of consistent, focused tutoring sessions—especially if they're working on a specific gap like regrouping or single-digit fluency. However, building true confidence and fluency usually takes 2-3 months of regular practice combined with tutoring.

The timeline depends on your child's starting point, the frequency of sessions, and how much they practice between meetings. A tutor can set realistic goals and track progress so you both know what's working.

Spaced repetition and varied practice are key. Rather than doing 20 similar problems in one sitting, students benefit from practicing a few problems daily over several days, then returning to harder problems weeks later. This strengthens memory and application.

Effective strategies include: counting up from the smaller number instead of counting down; using a number line to visualize; practicing with real objects or money; playing math games that involve subtraction; and checking answers by adding back. A tutor can recommend which strategies fit your child's learning style and current level.

Signs include: frequent errors on subtraction homework or tests, avoiding subtraction problems, confusion about regrouping, difficulty explaining how they solved a problem, or anxiety around math. Some children also hide frustration by rushing or giving up.

If your child is in grades 1-3 and hasn't fully grasped subtraction facts (e.g., 10-7), or if they're in upper grades and still struggle with multi-digit subtraction, tutoring can build both skills and confidence before gaps widen.

Look for tutors with: strong knowledge of elementary math concepts and common misconceptions; experience teaching students at your child's grade level; the ability to explain math multiple ways; and patience with struggling learners. It's also valuable if they can connect math to real-world scenarios so subtraction feels relevant.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who bring these qualities and can personalize their approach to how your child learns best. Many tutors also have experience working with students across Phoenix's diverse schools and learning needs.