Kumon vs. Sylvan Learning Center?

[Queen2PrincessG]

i'd not hire a college student at all. It is silly for an 8 year old. A highschooler failing algebra, yes.

Either the teachers teaching at sylvan are sell outs, or they are doing their best and the program works as teachers help children. I have seen the program work. (sylvan) I find it interesting that someone who hasnt had any connection, isn't a teacher, and has a toddler is such an expert.

OP, I'd still check out the computer, games, and realize that maybe the child is just not ready for the process. Until a child is developmentally ready, you can't make them figure it out. The programs are wickedly expensive, so I'd personally check other options first.

That doesn't make sense to me can you explain why?

 

[Nanu57v]

Certainly talk to her teacher...but try some math games to make math fun. Actually, I've heard really good things about this product, although I haven't personally seen it, several of my real life friends have. Its a Math DVD: (MathTacular) http://www.sonlight.com/RM33.html There are a few different levels, and they are each about $25.

 

[GinnyEmma]

That doesn't make sense to me can you explain why?

There isn't any reason to believe a college student would have a better understanding of teaching a basic thing like addition, subtraction etc., than a parent.

Otoh, many parents hated algebra (for example) and don't understand the basics of it. The current college math student would know how to do the problems, know the current preferred manner of doing the problems, and be able to work through the students problem with them. If it is just a basic lack of practice and the need to talk through the problems this could be an easy cost effective answer.

 

[Magic Mom]

I worked at Sylvan and it is not a scam. The test is an accurate measurement of your child's current ability. If you are accusing me of faking test scores then I am highly offended. The post test is the exact same level test as the original. Sylvan is a great program that works, but it is very expensive.

A good friend of mine sent her son to Sylvan. It was very expensive, but it worked wonders for him. His MAP scores at school and his state testing scores improved dramatically. He went from being behind grade level in every area to on grade level or above grade level. I also know a few teachers that work for Sylvan, and they are all good ethical people that are working to supplement their income. They would not work for a scam business.

 

[Queen2PrincessG]

There isn't any reason to believe a college student would have a better understanding of teaching a basic thing like addition, subtraction etc., than a parent.

Otoh, many parents hated algebra (for example) and don't understand the basics of it. The current college math student would know how to do the problems, know the current preferred manner of doing the problems, and be able to work through the students problem with them. If it is just a basic lack of practice and the need to talk through the problems this could be an easy cost effective answer.

Guess you didn't really understand my post. If you go to career service of a college they will more than likely direct you toward the students who are majoring in the subject your child may be struggling in. They might also be on a education path so not only is your child get reliable help you are helping a future community leader get experience.

 

[GinnyEmma]

As I said, a college student, even a teaching student would not have any advantage over a parent. One "teaching mathematics to elementary" class does not mak one better at helping a child learn a basic. And yes I took that class.

Luckily our career center wouldn't assume such a thing either. Students interested in tutoring put a note up in the library.

 

[palavra]

Thanks. I was already leaning in that direction, but good to hear it from someone else.

No, they are not scams. I worked for Sylvan Learning Center for two years. The students are tutored on a three to one ration by certified teachers. I've seen numerous children really grasp math concepts when they are in a less structured setting and can get almost one on one help. Sylvan DID NOT retest at a lower level ever. But it wasn't the test scores that most parents cared about anyway. It was the lightbulb moments when their kids finally began to grasp concepts. Believe me, that showed up in their grades in school as well.

 

[heatherleigh]

I recommend Sylvan. I have a friend who did Kumon, and liked it, but I have no personal experience. I know Kumon is less expensive. If Sylvan was a scam, I don't think parents would pay those high prices. My 7-year old is currently doing the math program. He did reading last year, and we saw improvements right away. Make sure you look for a coupon before going for the assessment. We wouldn't continue with it if we didn't see a difference. His math scores are already going up and he just started math a month ago. His teacher at school is very supportive of the program- and she's an excellent teacher.

 

[kmacht]

She grasps the basic concepts of adding, but is still counting on her fingers. I can't seem to figure out how to help her memorize.

Is she actually failing math or is it just her counting on her fingers that bother you? If it is just the finger counting then I say don't worry about it. I am an engineer with a masters degree and a successfull career at a large manufacturing company and I still count on my fingers at times. It is not that I can't do the math in my head or on paper, it is just that some people are better able to learn by using visual or physical items. Maybe your daughter is the same way.

Keith

 

[GinnyEmma]

Is she actually failing math or is it just her counting on her fingers that bother you? If it is just the finger counting then I say don't worry about it. I am an engineer with a masters degree and a successfull career at a large manufacturing company and I still count on my fingers at times. It is not that I can't do the math in my head or on paper, it is just that some people are better able to learn by using visual or physical items. Maybe your daughter is the same way.

Keith

Good point. I know people like that.

 

[ajwolfe]

A friend of mine sent her child to Sylvan and the results were wonderful. I've never personally used them, but if I had a need I would consider it -definitely before I would consider hiring a high school/college student to help my child.

 

[nat8199]

Many years ago I went to a very good private school that used the Kumon system to supplement math during homeroom. Their system is AMAZING for the rote memorization and speed needed for math. I can do more math in my head than most people a know as a result. I don't know anything about their individual centers, but I know their old system was really good.