Tutoring Services in Montreal: Finding the Right Fit
When Your Child Needs Extra Support
Every child learns differently, and sometimes the classroom pace doesn't match your child's needs. Whether they're struggling with math, need help with French (or English), or want to get ahead in science, Montreal has excellent tutoring options. Here's how to navigate them.
Learning Centres
Oxford Learning has several locations across Montreal and Laval. Their approach uses a proprietary cognitive assessment to identify how your child learns best, then creates a customized program. They cover all subjects and all grade levels (K-12 and university prep). Monthly costs run $300-500 depending on frequency and subjects. What parents appreciate is the structured environment and progress tracking — you get regular reports on your child's improvement.
Mathnasium focuses exclusively on math, which makes them exceptional at it. Their method starts with a diagnostic assessment to identify gaps in understanding, then builds a customized learning plan. Locations in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Laval, and Brossard. Around $300-400/month for 2-3 sessions per week. Ideal for kids who say "I'm bad at math" — they reframe the relationship with the subject.
Kumon follows a self-paced worksheet method for math and reading. Kids visit the centre 2x/week and complete daily homework packets. It's highly structured and repetition-based, which works brilliantly for some kids and frustrates others. Multiple locations across Montreal, around $150/month per subject. Best for kids who respond well to routine and incremental progress.
Strategic Learning in Westmount offers personalized one-on-one tutoring and learning disability support. Their tutors are certified teachers and educational psychologists. This is the premium option — expect $60-90/hour — but the quality is exceptional for kids with learning differences like dyslexia, ADHD, or processing disorders.
Free & Online Resources
Alloprof is Quebec's free homework help service, available in French. Students can chat with qualified teachers online, access thousands of video explanations, and use interactive exercises. It's an incredible free resource that every Quebec parent should know about. Available for elementary and high school students.
LEARN Quebec provides free online tutoring in English for Quebec students. Their tutors are certified teachers who meet with students via video call.
Private Tutors vs. Learning Centres
| Factor | Private Tutor | Learning Centre |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $30-80/hour | $150-500/month |
| Flexibility | High | Moderate |
| Structure | Varies | Consistent |
| Accountability | Depends | Built-in |
| Personalization | Very high | Moderate |
Signs Your Child Might Benefit from Tutoring
- Grades dropping in a previously strong subject
- Homework battles that last more than 30 minutes nightly
- Avoidance — They refuse to discuss school or specific subjects
- Teacher feedback — The teacher has flagged concerns
- Confidence issues — They say things like "I can't do it" or "I'm stupid"
Making Tutoring Work
- Communicate with the tutor — Share what's happening at school so tutoring aligns
- Don't overload — Tutoring on top of a full school day and extracurriculars is exhausting
- Set realistic goals — Progress takes time; expect 2-3 months before significant improvement
- Celebrate small wins — Each improved quiz or completed homework builds momentum
- Plan an exit strategy — Good tutoring should eventually make itself unnecessary
Explore education resources in Montreal on FamiliQC.
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