Many students struggle with regrouping (or borrowing) when subtracting across place values—this is one of the biggest conceptual hurdles. Other common difficulties include:

• Understanding why regrouping is necessary
• Organizing multi-digit subtraction problems
• Maintaining accuracy with larger numbers
• Applying subtraction to word problems

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows tutors to identify exactly where a student's understanding breaks down and rebuild foundational concepts at their own pace.

In a classroom setting with a 14.4:1 student-teacher ratio like Denver's average, it's difficult for teachers to address each student's unique learning gaps. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction lets tutors slow down on problem areas, use concrete manipulatives or visual models that click for your child, and skip ahead on concepts already mastered.

This targeted approach means faster progress—students often catch up on missed subtraction skills in weeks rather than months, building both competency and confidence.

Daily practice is key, but it should be meaningful and pressure-free. Effective strategies include:

• Using real-world scenarios (making change at a store, counting down activities)
• Playing games that involve subtraction (card games, dice games)
• Encouraging mental math strategies rather than always using paper and pencil
• Praising effort and problem-solving approaches, not just correct answers

Tutors can work with students during sessions while also providing parents with strategies and practice suggestions to reinforce learning at home.

Subtraction is taught differently across Colorado's grade levels—from concrete manipulatives in K-2 to abstract algorithms in upper elementary. Varsity Tutors connects students with experienced tutors who understand Colorado state standards and how subtraction builds progressively through elementary math.

Whether your student is in Denver Public Schools, Cherry Creek, or another district, tutors can align instruction with current classroom work and fill any conceptual gaps your student may have.

Fluency develops gradually and varies by student. Most students need consistent practice over several weeks to months to move from hesitant, counting-based strategies to automatic recall of basic facts (0-10). Reaching fluency with regrouping typically takes longer because it involves multiple steps and stronger conceptual understanding.

With targeted tutoring 1-2 times per week, students often show noticeable improvement in speed and accuracy within 4-6 weeks, especially when combined with daily practice at home.

Varsity Tutors makes the process simple: you provide information about your student's grade level, current challenges, and learning preferences, and we connect you with a tutor who has experience teaching subtraction to students at that level. Many tutors work flexibly around Denver family schedules.

Once matched, your tutor will assess your student's current skills, create a personalized learning plan, and track progress over time to ensure steady improvement toward your goals.