Find the stumbling block
We identify the exact idea causing trouble instead of repeating an entire lesson that still doesn’t connect.
One-to-one help for children and teens
Learning should build confidence—not frustration.
I provide patient, personalized tutoring that helps young people understand how to find the answer, not merely finish today’s homework.
Serving Athens, Smiths Falls and nearby Eastern Ontario communities
Very limited space
Only 3 tutoring sessions offered each week
Tutoring isn’t giving a child the correct answer.
It’s helping a child learn how to reach it.
A different way to learn
I make learning make sense.
Every student thinks differently. I begin with what the child understands, learn what interests them, and build from there at a pace that works.
Explain it another way
I use plain language, examples, objects, stories and the student’s own interests to make difficult ideas easier to see.
Build real confidence
The goal is not dependence on a tutor. It is helping the student discover that they really can work things out.
What I can help with
From early learning to a stubborn school problem.
Help can be ongoing or focused on one particular challenge. If you’re unsure whether I can help, ask—an honest conversation costs nothing.
- MathUnderstanding steps, concepts and problem solving
- Reading & learning skillsPatient practice built around the child
- School readinessLetters, numbers, shapes and early confidence
- Computers & technologyPractical guidance for curious young learners
- A specific stumbling blockFocused help when one topic simply isn’t clicking
Help should be within reach
Free tutoring for families who need it.
If your child needs help but paying for a tutor is not realistic for your family, please contact me. There is no complicated application and no need to feel uncomfortable asking.
Space is genuinely limited, so I’ll consider the student’s needs, location and available times when arranging sessions.
Simple and flexible
Three sessions. Six hours. Maximum.
I intentionally limit tutoring to a maximum of three sessions each week so every student gets my full patience and attention.
- Up to two hours per session
- Once or twice weekly, depending on need and available space
- Days and times arranged with each family
- At the family’s home or an agreed public location
For sessions in a family’s home, a parent or responsible adult must remain at home.
About your tutor
Hi, I’m Mike.
I’ve helped children of family and friends learn for many years, and I began offering tutoring publicly in 2013. I’ve also worked with children through community activities, Sunday school and other volunteer efforts.
I enjoy figuring out how an individual child learns. For one student who needed help with both reading and Canadian capitals, I wrote a story that took him across Canada by four-wheeler and snowmobile—because those were things he loved. He learned while enjoying the trip.
My background includes computers, electronics, woodworking and small business, and I’m currently studying Computer Programming at Algonquin College. More importantly, I’m patient, practical and willing to explain something five different ways until one finally clicks.
Start with a conversation
Tell me what your child needs help with.
Include the student’s age or grade, the subject or difficulty, your community, and the days or times that might work. We’ll decide together whether I’m the right person to help.