When evaluating a student's needs, tutors should review the existing records of assessment created by the teacher of the Pre-K class. The teacher may have a portfolio, written assessment or individualized education program (IEP) that will give you more insight to the student's current progress. During the first meeting with a student, a tutor can use informal assessment methods to gauge the student's development through observation, conversation and age-appropriate activities. Recording the child's capabilities and re-evaluating him throughout the tutoring process will allow you to track progress.
Once tutors establish the needs of a student, they should create learning goals for skills or areas of study that require improvement. These goals must all focus on preparing the Pre-K student for kindergarten and may include growth in various topics, such as reading, math, social skills and physical development. The tutor may set a goal for the student to write his name or create a pattern by the end of a tutoring session. Creating a list of specific goals will help in guiding the tutoring process.
Preschool students learn mainly through play. A tutor who uses play-based methods of instruction will tap into the interests of a child and promote a positive interaction. As the student works with blocks or manipulatives, sit with him and ask open-ended questions prompting reasoning skills. You also might offer suggestions to the student, such as asking him to find a way to make a rectangle using two squares. To practice language skills, allow the student to scrawl letters into sand or shaving cream or send them on a scavenger hunt for objects beginning with specific letters.
By communicating with parents and teachers, tutors receive information on the student's progress in class and at home. They should also inform teachers about the tutor's work done with students, encouraging them to provide followup activities in the classroom. Keeping an open communication with the student will make him feel comfortable and create a positive learning environment. Ease into the lessons by first asking a student questions about his day, making him laugh and establishing a trusting relationship with him.