Common challenges with subtraction include difficulty understanding regrouping, rushing through problems without checking work, and weak foundational number sense. Some students memorize procedures without truly understanding what subtraction means, which makes multi-step problems confusing. Additionally, students with weaker visual-spatial skills may struggle with number line or column alignment strategies.

Varsity Tutors connects Brooklyn students with tutors who slow down and rebuild understanding from the ground up, using multiple strategies tailored to each learner's strengths. Rather than drilling facts, expert tutors help students truly grasp why regrouping works and when to apply different subtraction strategies—turning confusion into confidence.

Word problems require students to translate language into mathematical operations—a skill that takes explicit practice. Start by reading the problem aloud together, identifying what the question is asking, and determining whether subtraction is needed. Many students benefit from drawing pictures, using manipulatives, or numbering the steps they take before solving.

A tutor working with your child can teach proven strategies like circling key numbers, underlining the question, and checking whether the answer makes sense in context. With consistent practice on a variety of problem types, students build the confidence to tackle unfamiliar word problems independently.

Regrouping (borrowing) is one of the most conceptually challenging parts of subtraction because it requires students to understand place value deeply. The most effective approach starts with concrete models—using base-ten blocks, bundled straws, or coins—so students physically see what happens when you "break apart" a ten to make more ones.

Only after students understand the concrete concept should they move to pictorial representations (drawings) and then abstract notation. Tutors can slow down at this critical step, use multiple representations, and provide plenty of practice with immediate feedback to ensure students truly understand the why, not just the how.

Students usually begin informal subtraction concepts in kindergarten (taking away small numbers of objects) and Grades K-1 focus on subtraction within 10. Grade 1-2 introduces subtraction within 20 and basic regrouping. Grade 2-3 covers two-digit subtraction with regrouping, and Grades 3-4 extend to larger numbers and multi-step problems.

If your Brooklyn student is struggling with subtraction, it's worth investigating whether gaps exist in earlier concepts like number sense or addition—because subtraction builds directly on these skills. A tutor can quickly assess which foundational pieces need reinforcement, ensuring your child progresses smoothly rather than falling further behind.

Research on learning shows that consistent, spaced practice over time builds deeper retention than cramming. For subtraction facts, students typically need repeated exposure over weeks and months, not hours in a single session. Effective practice includes a mix of strategies: speed drills for facts already partially learned, slower problem-solving for new concepts, and application in word problems and games.

Quality matters more than quantity—10 focused minutes with a tutor identifying and addressing specific weaknesses can be more effective than an hour of independent worksheets. Varsity Tutors can create a practice plan tailored to your child's pace, ensuring they're challenged without becoming frustrated.

A tutor works alongside your child's classroom teacher, reinforcing the same strategies and vocabulary while providing one-on-one attention to address gaps. This personalized instruction is particularly valuable in Brooklyn's diverse schools, where class sizes and varied pacing can make it hard for some students to keep up. Tutors can preview upcoming concepts, build confidence with struggling topics, and help your child become a more independent problem-solver.

When classroom instruction moves quickly, tutoring fills in missing foundational pieces so your child doesn't fall further behind. Connect with Varsity Tutors to get matched with an expert tutor who understands how to support your child's unique learning style and pace.