🎥 "I want 1:1 lessons..." - how to guide parents to book group lessons if that's your preferred model
(video at the end)

Many parents initially think one-on-one tutoring is the best option for their child. However, introducing them to the benefits of group lessons can be a game-changer for your teaching business. Here's how to do it effectively:

1. Start with a Trial:  

Offer a paid trial session that includes an assessment and a sample lesson. This allows you to give really detailed information to parents on how their child is doing and what their gaps are. If parents see you understand the problem, they trust you to provide the solution.  The Jigsaw Phonics Programme contains a detailed ready-to-go assessment which is then followed by a trial lesson: we call it "starting with the two-lesson paid trial".  

2. Use the Trial to Build Confidence:  

During the trial, you will naturally highlight your ability to connect with students, and tailor activities to support their growth. A positive experience can help parents feel reassured about group learning, especially online.

3. Showcase Compatibility:  

After the trial, demonstrate how their child fits into a suitable group based on personality and skill level. For example, if your assessment shows a child is shy or more dominant, you can suggest a group that complements their traits.

4. Emphasize the Value of Group Dynamics:  

Parents often see that children thrive in social settings where they can collaborate and learn from peers. Highlight that group lessons not only foster social skills but also provide a rich learning environment.

5. Secure Commitments through Investment:  

Since the trial is paid, it’s more likely parents will commit to ongoing lessons, whether in a group or one-on-one. This initial investment builds a sense of commitment and trust. This is a big reason why it isn't worth offering freebies. 

6. Careful Grouping:  

The insights from the assessment and trial allow you to form small, balanced groups, because you know that grouping children with compatible personalities and similar levels encourages better interactions and learning outcomes.

This approach helps parents feel confident in the switch to group lessons and positions your program as a nurturing, effective, and valuable option. The key is to provide a positive, informative experience that naturally guides parents toward the group learning model.

Sandra and expert online phonics tutor Alice McVeigh from Jigsaw Phonics with Alice about how Alice meets parents where they are at with the best help she can give - without any persuasion or hard sell - and how it more often than not means the diehard 1:1 parents go for groups. 

Click below to watch this 3-minute chat with strategies that really work.