Do the benefits outweigh the cost of Sylvan?

Question

I was stunned at the costs but I know you can't put a price tag on education or educational help. Has Sylvan really, really helped your child succeed at a much higher level in school? Or could you suggest good alternatives that might be more affordable? Thanks for taking the time to help.

Answer 1

For some kids, I'd say yes.  I'll talk about reading.  Those kids who don't have a learning disability like dyslexia and who just missed out on some essential instruction in the early grades often benefit from a program like Sylvan.  

But as a private reading instructor who specializes in teaching reading to dyslexic kids, I've had students come from Sylvan to me. These kids had spent a year or more going to Sylvan and felt frustration at the lack of  progress.  

If your child has a learning disability, you need a well qualified instructor or tutor who will work with your child one-on-one.  The greater the qualifications, often the more the teacher will charge.  

Some schools have quality special education instruction, but often the teachers in schools lack the training they need, or lack the time to really make a difference.  They also sometimes must work with groups too large to be effective.

Hope this helps

Answer 2

I would invest in a private tutor.  If your child is in high school , ask their guidance counseler for a list of tutors.  The tutors are most likely paid that teach the course at the school.  That way what your child learns directly correlates to the class.

Answer 3

Nope.  Seek out a private tutor in your area.  Possibly a teacher in your child's school who doesn't teach your child.  They have access and knowledge of the school's curriculum, testing requirements, etc  Sylvan frequently uses untrained college students who don't know the local school systems.  They end up teaching your kid a way that doesn't help the next day at school.  

Answer 4

I agree with the answers that suggest finding a private tutor.  It is no more expensive and your child will get help with the classwork he/she is already having trouble with.   In my experience, the cost of Sylvan, or the other chains, isn't justified by their results.