It’s reported that 17% of pupils have special education needs (SEN), while 1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodivergent. This means that while most people are neurotypical – meaning their brain functions and processes information in the way society expects – over 15% of us are neurodivergent. This is simply when the brain functions, learns and processes information differently.
Neurodivergence includes a range of conditions like attention deficit disorders (ADHD), autism, Tourette Syndrome, dyslexia and dyspraxia. And while very few of these conditions affect intelligence, children and teens who are diagnosed can benefit from extra support at school and at home. This can help them discover optimum ways of learning and help them feel heard and supported.
Even better, one-to-one support with topics, concepts or projects they find difficult can help to build students with SEN’s confidence and motivation when studying.
Here, we share 5 ways tutors can help with special education needs. Plus, two MyTutor tutors share how they adapt their sessions for students with neurodiversity.
1. They go at your teen’s pace
Whether or not your teen has special education needs, the benefit of one-to-one tutoring is that sessions can be tailored to suit their speed and style of learning. Tutors are happy to explain or break down concepts and projects in alternative ways.
2. They understand neurodiversity
Many of our tutors are neurodiverse themselves. Therefore, they have a good understanding of what your teen might be going through when it comes to learning, studying and revising for exams.
3. They can personalise their style of teaching
From visual mindmaps and whiteboards, to verbally explaining as well as writing down tasks – tutors will work with your teen to find out how they like to take in information.
4. They can help to build confidence
Sometimes, in large classes at school, teachers may not always have the time to individually praise and encourage hardworkers. Time with a tutor means building a one-to-one relationship, which can help to build self-esteem.
5. They can act as a mentor
Both our tutors and students have shared that tutoring can sometimes go beyond the simple teach-and-learn approach. Being close in age and having similar recent experiences, tutors can become role models or mentors for students, especially when it comes to making big career or subject decisions.
But don’t just take our word for it. Neurodiverse MyTutor tutors, Freya and Eleanor, share how they personalise and adapt their sessions for neurodiverse students.
Freyja Jones
Neurodiversity: Autism
Tutor subject: English Language and Literature
“Sometimes neurodiverse people need extra time to process information, especially direct questions. It can be helpful to say these verbally as well as in writing. I give the student time to process and am open to reiterating as many times as is needed.
“Autistic students can also find it overwhelming and nerve-wracking talking to a new person. I keep things light and relaxed and try to incorporate their special interests into the sessions.
“I was actually really nervous when I first started tutoring, because I can become quite shy and overwhelmed in conversation. I do still get nervous now before the first sessions — but I think this is natural, especially for an autistic person.
“I think being autistic makes me even more empathetic to students’ needs, particularly as they’re often shy, nervous, or have their own special education needs that can make the situation daunting. I like to be a tutor who can adapt to their needs and get on their level.”
Eleanor Finlayson
Neurodiversity: Dyslexia
Tutor subject/s: English and History
“I believe that being patient is really important and showing that you appreciate the extra help they might need. I also think it’s really important to ask the student how they learn best, as not every neurodiverse student will learn the same. For example, making use of the different coloured whiteboards or asking them what kind of activities they’d enjoy.
“I try to share encouraging words of advice, as this can really help neurodiverse students, especially as many have low self-esteem but really want to do well!”
Supporting your neurodivergent teen may sometimes be challenging, especially as according to research, they may be more likely to struggle with confidence and self-esteem.
However, working with them to discover alternative ways to study and connecting them with the right support will make all the difference – and help them to achieve their best.