Many students struggle with regrouping (borrowing) when the ones digit in the bottom number is larger than the ones digit in the top number—this is one of the biggest hurdles. Others have difficulty understanding what subtraction *means* conceptually, viewing it only as a mechanical process rather than as "taking away" or "finding the difference." Expert tutors can identify whether a student's struggle is conceptual or procedural and address it directly with targeted strategies.

During the first session, a tutor will assess your student's current understanding of subtraction—including their comfort with basic facts, two-digit problems, and regrouping. They'll ask questions and observe problem-solving to pinpoint exactly where the confusion starts, whether it's with number sense, place value, or the regrouping process itself. From there, the tutor creates a personalized plan to build confidence and fill specific gaps.

Consistent, targeted practice with immediate feedback is one of the most effective ways to build subtraction fluency. Research in learning science shows that spaced repetition—practicing the same skills over multiple sessions with time between them—helps students retain what they've learned. A tutor can design practice sessions that gradually increase in difficulty, celebrate progress, and address mistakes in real-time so students build both accuracy and speed.

Regrouping makes sense when students first understand it with concrete manipulatives—like base-ten blocks or drawings—before moving to abstract numbers on paper. Many students benefit from seeing regrouping as "breaking apart" a ten into ones, rather than just following a mechanical rule. A tutor can use visual models and step-by-step explanations to help your child see *why* regrouping works, not just *how* to do it.

Fluency timelines vary depending on where a student is starting from and how frequently they practice. Students who understand the concept but need to build speed typically see improvement within a few weeks of consistent practice. Those who are still building conceptual understanding may need several months of personalized instruction combined with regular practice. The key is consistent, focused work—tutors can help create a realistic timeline based on your student's specific needs.

Look for tutors who understand both the *how* and *why* of subtraction—they should be able to explain the concept in multiple ways and recognize where a student's understanding breaks down. Experience working with elementary students and familiarity with different learning styles is valuable. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who have proven experience teaching foundational math skills and can adapt their approach to match your student's learning style.

Use real-world contexts—like counting change, sharing snacks, or comparing heights—to show subtraction in action. Practice basic facts in short, low-pressure sessions rather than long drills, and celebrate effort and improvement rather than just correct answers. Ask your student to explain their thinking out loud, which helps you understand where confusion might be and builds their confidence in explaining math concepts.