Many students struggle with regrouping (borrowing) in multi-digit subtraction, confusing when and how to regroup numbers. Others have difficulty with subtraction fluency—quickly recalling basic facts—which slows down their work on larger problems. Some students also mix up subtraction with addition or struggle to understand what subtraction represents conceptually. A tutor can identify exactly where your child is getting stuck and use targeted strategies to address those specific gaps.

During an initial session, a tutor will assess your child's current understanding of subtraction—from basic facts through multi-digit problems—to identify strengths and areas needing support. They'll ask questions to understand how your child approaches problems and where confusion occurs. This information helps the tutor create a personalized learning plan focused on building confidence and skills at your child's pace.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows tutors to use targeted practice and strategies tailored to how your child learns best—whether through visual models, number lines, manipulatives, or other methods. Regular practice with immediate feedback helps students internalize basic facts and strategies. Research on one-on-one instruction shows it's highly effective for building fluency because tutors can adjust difficulty in real time and keep practice engaging and relevant to your child's needs.

Regrouping is one of the trickiest subtraction concepts because it requires understanding place value and the relationship between tens and ones. A tutor can break this down using concrete models, visual representations, and step-by-step strategies before moving to abstract problems. They'll also help your child practice the process repeatedly until it becomes automatic, building the confidence needed to tackle larger subtraction problems independently.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in elementary math and subtraction for students in Bronx. You can share details about your child's grade level, specific challenges, and learning style, and we'll match you with a tutor experienced in helping students master subtraction. The first step is to reach out and tell us what your child needs—we handle the rest.

Practice subtraction in real-world contexts—like counting change, taking away snacks, or playing simple math games—helps make the concept meaningful. Keep practice sessions short and positive, celebrating effort and progress rather than just correct answers. Your child's tutor can suggest specific practice activities and strategies tailored to what they're working on, so you can reinforce learning at home in ways that actually stick.

Yes, we connect students at all grade levels—from early elementary learners just starting subtraction through older students who need to strengthen their foundational skills. Whether your child is in first grade learning basic facts or in middle school and struggling with subtraction as part of larger math concepts, a tutor can provide personalized support. The approach and complexity adjust based on your child's current level and goals.