Many students struggle with regrouping (borrowing), understanding what subtraction represents conceptually, and applying subtraction to word problems. Some students also find it difficult to transition from concrete manipulatives (like blocks or counters) to abstract numbers and symbols. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction helps identify exactly where a student is getting stuck and builds confidence through targeted practice and real-world examples.

The first session focuses on understanding your student's current skill level, learning style, and specific challenges with subtraction. A tutor will work through a few subtraction problems to identify gaps—whether they're struggling with basic facts, regrouping, or applying subtraction to word problems. From there, the tutor creates a personalized plan tailored to your student's needs and pace.

Many students show noticeable improvement within 4-6 weeks of consistent, personalized tutoring—especially when practicing between sessions. The timeline depends on your student's starting point and how frequently they receive instruction. Regular practice combined with targeted feedback helps reinforce understanding, and most students gain confidence once they grasp the underlying concepts rather than just memorizing facts.

Varsity Tutors connects students with expert tutors who have strong backgrounds in elementary mathematics and experience teaching subtraction to students at various skill levels. Tutors understand how to break down the concept into manageable steps, use multiple teaching strategies, and adapt their approach based on how each student learns best. They're skilled at making subtraction concrete and relatable through real-world contexts.

Effective practice includes daily drills with subtraction facts, word problems that connect subtraction to real life (like making change or comparing quantities), and games that make practice engaging. Tutors often recommend spaced repetition—reviewing facts over time rather than cramming—which helps move skills into long-term memory. They'll also suggest ways to practice that fit your family's routine, whether that's flashcards, apps, or everyday activities.

Regrouping (borrowing) is one of the trickiest subtraction concepts because it requires understanding place value and the relationship between tens and ones. Tutors use visual models, manipulatives, and step-by-step strategies to make regrouping concrete before moving to abstract problems. With patient, personalized instruction, students develop a clear understanding of why regrouping works rather than just memorizing the steps.

Simply reach out to Varsity Tutors and share details about your student's current level and specific subtraction challenges. You'll be matched with a tutor who has expertise in elementary math and experience teaching subtraction. From there, you can schedule your first session at a time that works for your family and begin building your student's confidence and skills.