Quiet

A good friend of mine is fond of saying, “Western Civilization was built on private tutoring.” It is true that many of the great minds over the centuries have been nurtured and trained by personal tutors who focused on the students’ gifts, engaged them in stimulating conversation, and provided immediate feedback for optimal learning.

Large numbers of age-segregated students in classrooms is a recent phenomenon historically. Although it is cost effective and provides parents a place to put their children for much of the day, it is not the ideal situation for every child.

I am currently reading the book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain. Although I am extremely extroverted, I am familiar with introverts in that I am married to one, and I spent eighteen years homeschooling my introverted daughter. Introverts enjoy working alone for hours on projects that engage them. One or two friends over for a play date is often preferred to loud and overwhelming crowds of children that sap their energy.

Many children who struggle at school would benefit from one-on-one tutoring, away from the distractions and noise of the classroom. Private tutoring is an expensive option. However, for many children, the expense is worth the calmer present and brighter future that it brings.