Pocket Guide to Academic Help and Resources

All parents, no matter what type of school they choose, want their children to be successful. But what do you do if you notice your child struggling? How do you know if their struggle is part of the learning process or something that needs intervention?

The good news: help is available! Academic support can come from many places, such as your child’s school or community-based tutoring programs. Think of this pocket guide as your go-to resource for spotting the signs your child may need support and finding the help that fits your family.

Not sure where to start? Try reaching out to your child’s teacher. A friendly conversation can go a long way in understanding how your child is doing academically and what kind of support will help most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Grades and report cards are often the first sign that your child may need support, but there are other signs to watch for. Some common signs include:

Homework becoming a daily battle
A loss of confidence
Behavioral changes
Decreases in organization and time management

Ultimately, you know your child best. If you notice any of the changes listed above or just have a feeling that something isn’t working, a great first step is to reach out to your child’s teacher.

Together, you can identify any specific challenges your child is facing and see if they need additional support. Sometimes small adjustments in the classroom and at home are all that’s needed, other times professional support (such as one-on-one tutoring) may be required.

Yes! Simple, everyday moments can tell you a lot about how your child is doing. Try reading together, looking over their homework, or asking them to explain what they learned that day. If they get stuck on the same kinds of problems or seem unsure about a subject, that’s a good clue about where they may need support.

You can also use free online assessments to get a clearer picture of your child’s skills in areas like reading and math. Our guide to checking in on your child’s learning progress rounds up free tools for different grade levels. If anything stands out, share what you’ve found with your child’s teacher so you can work together on next steps.

School support can take many forms, and each school or district has its own approach. Here are a few common examples:

Tutoring: Students receive targeted instruction on specific skills in a one-on-one, peer-led, or small-group setting.
Before- and After-School Programs: Homework clubs and supervised study sessions are often built into school-based programs outside of regular class hours.
Summer Opportunities: Many schools offer programs throughout the summer with opportunities for enrichment and academic support.
Formal Intervention Process: Many schools use a step-by-step process to track student progress and add more support as needed. Your school may call this a Multi-Tiered System of Supports or Response to Intervention.
English Learner Support: Students whose first language is not English can receive language instruction and adjusted coursework.

Students with disabilities may receive special education services to help them learn and succeed in school. These supports are often outlined in an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan. If you think your child may have a disability that affects their learning, our Ultimate Guide to Special Education can walk you through your next steps.

Yes! Whether your child attends an online school, is homeschooled, or learns in a microschool, there are plenty of ways to get help.

If your child attends an online school, start by reaching out to their teacher. Online schools may offer virtual tutoring, live help sessions, or small-group instruction.

Microschools often have small classes and close communication between educators and families, so your child’s teacher or learning guide is a great first stop.

Homeschooling families can turn to tutoring programs, free at-home learning tools, homeschool co-ops, and community programs like library events and summer camps.

Check your state roadmap for more information.

Yes! Many academic support options are free or low-cost:

Tutoring: Free tutoring is commonly available at libraries, YMCAs, and Boys & Girls Clubs. You’ll also want to check with your school, your district or local colleges or universities. For a list of opportunities near you, check out our guide to free tutoring.
Digital Learning Tools: There are free online resources that are easy for families to use from home to support their child’s academics. Explore our list of free family learning tools for more information.
Community Programs: Along with libraries and local YMCAs, organizations like museums or parks and recreation programs may offer academic support opportunities.

Some states have funding programs, such as education savings accounts, that can be used for approved educational expenses such as tutoring.

Visit your state roadmap to find out if your state has funding available.