Small Group Learning (The Secret to Unlocking Every Child's Potential)
- Lee Fisher
- Feb 5, 2025
- 2 min read
Why Small Groups Are Better Than One-on-One Tutoring
If worksheets worked, they would have worked in the classroom.
But for many children, traditional one-on-one tutoring feels just as rigid as school—another adult-led session where they are expected to perform rather than engage, experiment, and grow. Kids learn best the way they play—through interaction, competition, collaboration, and discovery. That’s why small group sessions are often far more effective than individual tutoring.

Children are naturally social learners. They watch, imitate, and challenge each other, and this dynamic makes learning more engaging than simply being taught by an adult. They see other kids struggle too—when a child sees a peer make a mistake and keep trying, they learn that getting things wrong is part of the process (NAEYC). They explain concepts to each other—teaching someone else is one of the best ways to reinforce knowledge (Western Governors University). Healthy competition drives engagement—when kids see their peers making progress, they’re often more motivated to push themselves too (Cognitive Research Journal).
In a small group, children bounce off each other’s energy, which makes learning feel natural and exciting rather than forced. One-on-one tutoring can sometimes feel like a spotlight is shining directly on the child, making mistakes feel bigger than they are. In a group setting, however, the focus is shared—which reduces anxiety and builds confidence. Kids work together rather than feeling like they are being tested. They see different ways to solve problems, expanding their thinking. They feel less pressure to be perfect because they are learning as part of a team. This lowers stress and builds resilience, encouraging kids to try without fear of failure (Alludo Learning).
A well-run small group session is not just kids left to their own devices—it’s carefully structured so that everyone benefits. As a facilitator, I ensure every child gets the right level of challenge and support, games and activities balance cooperation and competition, and all children experience success—no one is left feeling behind. Unlike traditional classrooms, where some kids fall through the cracks, small groups allow for personalized learning while keeping the social benefits that make learning engaging.
One-on-one tutoring can be effective for some students, but for many, it feels too much like another lesson rather than an opportunity to learn in a fun, natural, and engaging way.

One-on-One Tutoring vs. Small Group Learning
Can feel like another classroom lesson → Feels more like play and natural learning
High pressure—mistakes feel big → Shared focus—mistakes feel normal
Child only learns from one person → Child learns from peers and facilitator
Engagement depends on tutor’s style → Group energy keeps motivation high
No social interaction → Builds confidence through peer support
By embracing small group learning, we create an environment where children thrive through collaboration, guided play, and interactive challenges—building confidence, motivation, and a lifelong love for learning.
As always, Enjoy Achieving!
Miss Lee
💡 Interested in small group learning for your child? View our group classes here.





Comments