Tutoring at its core must be about the individual student. When I’m entrusted with a student, I am dedicated not only to providing instruction using the Barton System with fidelity, but also to being prepared for each student specifically. That means working at the pace and ability of the student. When concepts are readily grasped and easily demonstrated by the student, we will move forward as quickly as the student is able. However, when I sense mental fatigue or frustration growing, it means to slow down or take a step back. Through judicious use of games, the pressure of the moment can be alleviated and a previous concept can be reinforced. I see this as an opportunity for additional practice – to transform an “understood” concept to an “automatic” skill. In addition to games, we may read extra stories, do extra practice activities, or work on fluency from previous lessons where the comfort level of the student is higher. My job as a tutor is to always seek the best for every student!