Meet Los Angeles Tutor Mary

My name is Mary and I am a tutor in Los Angeles, California! Outside of tutoring, I teach 4th and 5th grade. In the afternoons I look forward to my one-on-one and small group tutoring sessions I have with Kaplan Tutoring. Kaplan Tutoring gives me another opportunity to work with students, but in a personal setting that allows me to connect with the students on more of an individual level.

Q: What is the funniest thing a kid has ever said to you?

A: I got the hiccups during a tutoring session once. My student looked at me with a very serious face and said, “Next time, if you’re sick, don’t come to tutoring!”

Q: What do you say to kids who are struggling to stay motivated?

A: I like to remind my students that everyone is different and that we all learn things in different ways. I want kids to know that they are not the only ones who have challenges, but rather that we all have challenges.

I also find a fun way to motivate them through the challenges. With one of my students, we draw a picture throughout her lesson, so that each time she completes an activity, she draws part of the picture. By the end of her lesson, she had completed scenes like the jungle, the ocean or a pool party.

It really allows her to show her creativity and is teaching her to keep trying the whole time we are working together.

Q: Outside of tutoring, what’s your favorite fun activity to do with kids?

A: Go hiking! Not only do I love the outdoors, but having the opportunity to see kids so excited, curious, and creative about nature makes my heart soar.