Choosing the Right Learning Support for Your Child: One-to-One and Small Group Instruction

Every child learns differently, and choosing between one-to-one instruction and small group instruction depends on more than just academic needs. 

Some learners thrive with highly individualized attention. Others grow when they have the chance to interact, collaborate, and learn alongside peers. For many families, the question isn’t whether to seek support, but what kind of learning support will help their child feel confident, engaged, and successful. 

“My son started Small Group Instruction, and it is going so well. I am so grateful to the team for providing such a great program. I was discouraged when I looked at other tutoring agencies. Your social-emotional support and more fulsome support are just what we were looking for. I’m so glad I found you.” 
Parent with child in our Small Group Instruction program 

We’ve designed our programs with this in mind: there isn’t one “right” path; there are different options, each designed for different goals. 

“My daughter really enjoyed her RISE One-to-One session. She left the session feeling calm and regulated. This is quite different from other tutoring sessions we have tried, which left her feeling disoriented, very overwhelmed, and discouraged. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for creating a safe space for her, one in which she is more likely to learn and leave feeling good about herself.” 
Parent with child in our RISE One-to-One program 

One-to-One and Small Group Instruction: Understanding Your Options 

We offer both RISE One-to-One Instruction and Small Group Instruction, and each plays an important role in supporting learners. 

RISE One-to-One Instruction 

• Personalized, individualized instruction 
• Flexible pacing based on the learner’s needs 
• Focused support for specific academic goals 
• Strong relationship-building with an instructor 

Small Group Instruction 

• Structured learning in a small, supportive group 
• Academic focus combined with social-emotional learning 
• Opportunities to practice communication and collaboration 
• Interactive, engaging sessions with peers 

Both approaches are effective; they simply support different aspects of a learner’s development. 

The Benefits of Small Group Instruction for Academic and Social-Emotional Learning  

Small Group Instruction is designed for learners who are ready to build skills with others. 

In these sessions, students are not only working toward academic goals, but they are also: 

• Practicing how to participate in a group 
• Building confidence in speaking and contributing 
• Learning to navigate challenges alongside peers 
• Developing social-emotional and communication skills 

Small Group Instruction supports both academic growth and social-emotional learning, helping students build confidence, communication, and collaboration skills. 

We’ve seen learners become more engaged, more confident, and more connected, often because they are learning in a dynamic, social, and supportive setting.  

How to Choose the Right Learning Support for Your Child 

Choosing the right approach often comes down to what your child needs at this moment. 

Small Group Instruction may be a good fit if your child: 

• Is ready to engage with peers in a structured setting 
• Would benefit from building confidence in group environments 
• Learns well through interaction and shared activities 
• Enjoys being part of a group 

RISE One-to-One Instruction may be a good fit if your child: 

• Needs highly individualized support or pacing 
• Is working on foundational or specific skill gaps 

Benefits of a quieter, more focused environment are achieved by creating a space where learners feel understood, supported, and capable. 

When Families Choose Both Learning Approaches 

For some learners, the most effective approach is a combination. 

RISE One-to-One Instruction helps build and strengthen skills. Small Group Instruction provides opportunities to apply those skills in a social setting. 

Families who choose both programs select one focus area in RISE One-to-One and another in Small Group Instruction. To learn more about available subject areas, visit our Small Group Instruction program page. 

Small Group Instruction in the 2026–27 School Year  

Our Small Group Instruction program has been refined based on what we’ve seen work best for learners. For the 2026–27 school year, it has been intentionally designed to offer both structure and flexibility, so families can choose a focus that aligns with their child’s goals.

Focus Area By Grade

Families can select from specific focus areas depending on their child’s grade and needs. These include: 

• Phonics (reading and spelling)
• Written expression (writing) 
• Math 
• Study skills and executive functioning 

For high school learners, Small Group Instruction focuses on study skills and executive function support, including organization, time management, and independent learning strategies. 

Choice and Cohort Format

Rather than placing students into pre-set groups of up to three learners. We take a thoughtful approach: 

• Families share their preferred focus areas, availability, and goals 
• Cohorts are then carefully formed based on learner profiles, schedules, fit and with other learners of a similar age.

This ensures that learners can connect socially and progress academically. 

A Consistent, Structured Model

Small Group Instruction runs twice per week, providing the consistency learners need to build momentum, practice skills, and develop confidence over time. 

A Clear Approach to Progress

Families receive weekly updates reflecting progress across sessions, offering a more meaningful and holistic view of growth. Learners also receive mid-year and end-of-year reports to track overall progress. 

Find the Right Learning Support for Your Child 

There isn’t one “right” path, only the one that fits your child best right now. 

If you’re considering learning support for your child, we invite you to explore both options and connect with our team to find the right fit. 

Applications for Small Group Instruction open May 4. Learn more or apply here.

Comparing Learning Options: One-to-One and Small Group Instruction 

Frequently Asked Questions About Learning Support

What is the difference between one-to-one instruction and small group instruction? 
RISE One-to-One Instruction provides individualized support tailored to a learner’s needs, while Small Group Instruction offers a structured environment where students learn alongside peers, combining academic goals with social-emotional development. 

How do I know which learning support is right for my child? 
The right approach depends on your child’s goals, learning style, and readiness. Some learners benefit most from individualized support, while others thrive in a group setting where they can practice skills with peers. 

Can my child participate in both programs? 
Yes. Many families choose to combine RISE One-to-One Instruction and Small Group Instruction, using each approach to support different goals.

– Mel Henderson, Social Programs & Case Manager

LDS is a community of dedicated professionals who write collaboratively. We recognize the contribution of unnamed team members for their wisdom and input.