Saturday, April 4, 2020

How To Make Money Tutoring Online

How To Make Money Tutoring OnlineThere are a lot of reasons why you should consider making money tutoring online. One of the best things about this type of work is that you can go through your college or university and learn what you need to know. Another great thing about tutoring online is that you can do it in your pajamas that are dirty and you can also learn from another person that has been doing this for quite some time.Tutoring is a way of education where you give your time to someone who is not going to pay you for that, but only wants to teach you something that you do not have knowledge of. There are a lot of people who would hire a tutor to teach them something they really do not know how to do. These are the people that you can use as your own tutor.One of the best ways to help tutor is to make yourself available for a tutor to visit you or meet you whenever they need you. By doing this you can use the internet to search for a tutor that you think you would enjoy.Since y ou do not have to take a class, you can spend some of your free time trying to find a tutor and see if you like the person and know what you are going to get from them. It is very easy to find a tutor online since there are a lot of websites that you can use that will allow you to search for a tutor in your area.Another great thing about making money tutoring online is that you can have access to people all over the world. All you have to do is visit the website and see if you find anyone you would like to have as a tutor for your classes. Once you find someone you think might be suitable you can get him/her to meet with you in person.In order to help you find a tutor that you think you would want to work with you can try and ask around and see if anyone else knows of a person that they like. You can also post your own ad on the websites for tutors who are looking for students so that they can contact you when they need you.By doing this you can use the internet to search for a tuto r and make money tutoring online at the same time. Just make sure that the tutor you choose can meet with you at least once in person so that you can make the most out of your lessons and have the best experience possible.

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

Learn How to Sew with a Serger with our Sewing Classes

Learn How to Sew with a Serger with our Sewing Classes Sewing Tutorials in Using a Serger: Overlock Stitch, Straight Stitch, and Cutting ChaptersWhat is a Serger?Which Serger Suits You?Stitching Made Possible with a SergerLearn to Sew: With or Without a Serger?The Straight Stitch on Sergers: Are They Worth the Cost?If you have been watching sewing tutorials online â€" or are taking sewing classes, you may well have heard about a mysterious and efficient machine called a serger.While your basic sewing machine is capable of rendering quality stitches and beautiful garments, a serger permits a wider range of stitching and finishing, as well as working with a greater variety of fabrics.Have you every tried to sew jersey or other knits on your sewing machine?The stretch, the curl of raw edges; the likelihood of bunching under your presser foot...There was a time, in the history of sewing, that needles of bone or wood were the only type of notion available.Aren't we grateful that technology has refined the practice of home sewing!These days, sewing machines are computerized, allowing for precise plying of needle and thread, making it easier than ever for the seamstress, tailor or dressmaker to turn out quality clothing in no time flat.Let Superprof ease your way into beginner sewing â€" from the blind stitch for hemming to the buttonhole; from garment patterns to sewing curtains and pillows...Now we enter the enticing world of home sewing on a serger.Such a finishing stitch is only possible on a serger Source; Wikipedia Credit: SeniorCrochetTo  preserve and protect your fabric's raw edge manually â€" stitching it by hand,  you would require meticulous and time-consuming work.Contrast the hours you could have to spend edging your fabric with the mere minutes the efficient serger would require for the same task!It would probably render a much more even sewing stitch, too!You can learn more about sergers/overlocks by discovering the history of sewing …Which Serger Suits You?In fact, there are 2 types of machines that can fulfill these multiple functions:One with a single needle that renders a whip stit ch of varying grades, depending on how the machine is set â€" fine or gross stitching.Sergers are double-needled and can use up to five spools of thread, and cuts off the seam allowance as you stitch.Again, keep in mind: for fabrics such as jersey, fleece or lycra, you will be best served with a serger!Some types of fabric, especially thinner or more delicate ones, are very difficult to work with a classic sewing machine.The overlock also ensures a beautiful finish of the hem, especially on those fine fabrics. If you like to make your own clothes, you should definitely consider investing in such a machine.Imagine working silk on a standard sewing machine. Or even more challenging: by hand!What about a material that stretches easily, such as tricot or some other poly knit fabric?Not everything can be made out of cotton â€" that ultimately workable type of cloth, after all!One of the greatest advantages to working with a serger is the ability to stitch stretchable materials effortless ly.Of course, if you are unusually adept at sewing by hand or with a machine, you could already possess exquisite sewing techniques, and might have sewn whole wardrobes, using a zig zag stitch instead of overlocking your edges and seams.Join the discussion: is sewing a skill that only women should cultivate?A serger can sew rolled hems and seams, but cannot sew buttons or buttonholes Source: Pixabay Credit: WeinstockHowever, a serger renders an especially precise hem, with minimal fabric loss.Even though we are currently in the grip of winter, you may be looking at sewing patterns for summer clothing â€" keeping your sewing room busy in preparation for spring.If that is the case, mastering the rolled hem on a serger would be ideal, because such a hem is particularly suited to light, airy fabrics.You might start with easy projects: maybe a dress or skirt, with a choice of using a 2- or 3-thread stitch.If you opt for a 3-thread hem, you will get a finer rendering; a 2-thread will give the right side the same appearance as the wrong side.The Flatlock SeamAs its name implies, it is a flat seam: most likely, you are familiar with them if you own a lot of sportswear.A prominent example of such a seam can be found on casual wear collars.This seam consists of two fabric panels butted together. It is executed by selecting that particular type of stitch.Of utmost importance when sewing in this manner is to disable your serger's cutting blade.You can also select this type of stitch to make decorative borders if you are making a scarf, or adding ruffles to a sleeve.The Classic HemWho has never stitched a hem?In a hurry and your pant's cuffs have come unraveled. A quick bit of hand sewing, a snip of the scissors, and that's got it, right?Have you ever dismayed over how elementary your hand sewing stitches look, compared to machine-stitched hems?This type of hem, rendered on a serger, was executed with 3 threads, giving it a professional grade look.Sewing on a serger will t ake you far beyond these basic notions! Source: Pixabay Credit: BluemorphosLearn to Sew: With or Without a Serger?Of course you can learn how to sew without a serger! However, you should invest in a basic sewing kit containing:a sewing needle complement â€" an assortment of different sizes, for different types of fabrica needle threader might be a good tool to have, toosewing thread: at least of the basic colours, for easy sewing projectsyou can buy specific shades later, for specific craftingA thimble or twoa scissors set: fabric shears, pinking shears and maybe even a rotary cutterstraight pins and a pincushionbias tapeelastic and velcroThese are the sewing basics. There will certainly be much more available at your sewing notions counter; these are just to get started on needlework.Of course, not even fabric shears can match the precision of a serger's cutting implement, when it comes to eliminating seam allowance.Furthermore, you would have to be mighty experienced to achieve a finish  that would be comparable to anything a serger could yield,  by hand or even with the best sewing machine.As great an advance as machine sewing was, novice seamstresses may find themselves dismayed to see their beginner sewing projects come unraveled after just a few turns in the washing machine.Sewn with a serger, your garments' lifespan will be much longer.Do you absolutely need a serger to achieve beautiful finishes?Of course not! There are other finishes, like the zigzag stitch or a nice French seam, done on a standard home sewing machine, to finalize your sewing work.Still, to assure quality, durability and attractive work: of all the sewing tools available, the serger is the only one to deliver all three!Also learn the terminology for all of your sewing tools and materials...As great an advance as the sewing machine was, sergers render a more professional look to everything you sew Source: Pixabay Credit: Sabine van ErpThe Straight Stitch on Sergers: Are They Worth the Cost?If you love to sew, have entire drawers full of free sewing patterns; have a room replete with sewing supplies...If every member of your family has a complete wardrobe sewn by your hand, most likely you will redeem the cost of your serger within a few months.However, if you have just completed your Sewing for Beginners class and, at best, have managed to turn out a pillowcase â€" or some other simple sewing projects, perhaps you should hold off on your investment.At least, for a little while, until you get another sewing lesson or two under your belt.Overlock machines use two needles and up to five spools of thread at once, and can be highly specialised.The downside to such a machine is that it does not function like a regular sewing machine so, if you are just starting out in dressmaking, you might spare yourself the just over £200 price tag.Conversely, if you intend to establish yourself as an independent tailor, you might consider more complicated machines, with all the bel ls and whistles, that could set you back nearly £500!As you consider your serger purchase, bear in mind some of the top names: Janome, Brother, Toyota, Singer, Bernina and Pfaff.Think about what options you would like to have, versus those that are absolutely necessary for efficient use of the machine, such as: a retractable (or easily removable) blade, and a needle threading accessory.It might also help to have a catcher under the knife, otherwise you will have errant threads everywhere.You can learn a lot more about sewing in general and serging in particular by reading sewing books, joining a sewing circle or taking part in a sewing bee.We hope that this article has helped to point you in the right direction as far as selecting your very first serger!Now you can learn how to sew from the masters of fashion!If searching for ‘sewing classes near me’ come direct to Superprof and find your sewing classes from Edinburgh to Sewing courses London.Discover more about:interfacing fab riccouture clothing

Friday, March 6, 2020

How to Find Your Ideal Drum Teacher

How to Find Your Ideal Drum Teacher Finding the Right Teacher to Learn Drums ChaptersImportant Things to Consider When Choosing a Drum TeacherMusic Schools vs. Private Drum Teachers for Beginner Drum LessonsWhere Can You Find a Drum Teacher Near You?Ever find yourself tapping your foot in synch with the rhythm of a song? Are the drum solos in rock bands and traditional music your favourite part? Are you burning to know what a paradiddle is, how to play a flam and whether triplets have anything to do with pregnancy?Who’re you gonna call about ghost notes? Should you give polyrhythm a cracker?It sounds like you’re in the grip of drum fever - and in need of answers. The best way to get them is to take drums lessons with a qualified teacher. But how can you find someone to teach you drum rudiments?hand drummingA first drum rudiment to get you hookedYou should also take advantage of the first class to ask the teacher about how they structure their lessons. Are they more theory-oriented? Do they demonstrate drum beats in a way that you can follow at your skill level? Will you be learning drum notation or drum tabs? Will you be getting drum songs to practice with, or just exercises? Will you have to buy your own drums, drumsticks and metronome or do they have drum equipment you can borrow until you are certain your future lies with percussion instruments?All these questions will help you decide if this drum teacher is the one for you.Music Schools vs. Private Drum Teachers for Beginner Drum LessonsOf course, it’s not just the person of the teacher, it’s the support he or she can offer as well. To learn how to play the drums, you have two basic options:A drum school or music schoolA private drum tutorAdvantages and disadvantages of a music schoolMusic schools generally offer two types of lessons:Group lessons, usually at the beginner levelPrivate lessons at the school with one of the school teachersHere are some of the advantages of taking drum instruction at a school:A music school will often have several drum teachers on staff. So if for some reason your drum lessons are cancelled for several weeks - holidays, illness or family emergency - you might be able to continue your course with another teacher.A music school often has their own drum kits. So if you are still unsure if you want to commit to drumming lessons, you can work on the school set until you get your own. Or if your hi-hat stand or ride cymbal is damaged, you can borrow one from the school for practice until you replace your own.Another plus for beginners and intermediate-level students is the availability of practice rooms. Playing drums is a loud passion that the neighbours don’t always appreciate. Having practice rooms you can use will help your motivation and decrease your guilt.Schools often give recitals, so you can practise performing in front of an audience.The cons are the fact that the teachers there will have to schedule around a lot of students as well as the guitar teacher and violin lessons all needing the instruction and practice r ooms. Depending on their structure, music schools might have specific hours set aside for you that you can’t really deviate from. They lack flexibility and teachers might be forced to adhere to a certain teaching plan.Group drum lessons bring you and other drum afficionados together. Photo credit: thelearningcurvedotca on VisualHuntIf you are taking group drum classes there will be the added inconvenience that the teacher will not be able to focus entirely on you, though being with other musicians passionate about percussion has its own advantages.Of course, if you want a degree in drumming you will have to attend a college of music and complete the course to get your bachelor of music.Private tutoringThe advantage of a private tutor is one-on-one instruction. Your tutor can tailor it to your needs and skill. He or she will be there to motivate you every step of the way and will be able to adapt to your schedule and availability. This means that if your work week is different ever y time, you won’t be tied down to a single time slot. And if you have to cancel, you can make up the lesson another time.There are two ways drum lessons with private tutors can be set up: you go to their house or they come to yours.If you are just starting out, chances are you will be going to their house and using their drum kit; though if you are learning a portable percussion instrument such as the bodhran or bongos, they might bring them with them along for your first music lessons. Once you have graduated to an intermediate or advanced level, they will probably come to your house so you can use your own drums.Find out what type of equipment you need for playing the drums...One-to-one drum lessons will let you progress faster. Photo credit: vanja b. on Visualhunt.comWhere Can You Find a Drum Teacher Near You?Googling local music schools is easy, but how can you find a private drum instructor for drum lessons near me?One solution, of course, is Superprof. Here on the site, we h ave a wide selection of percussion instructors in various types of drums. Some even offer online lessons via webcam if you should happen to live in a drum-free zone. Many offer the first lesson for free.On Superprof, you can read the instructor's full profile, including his studies and experience, before contacting him or her. You’ll know if they are straight out of school or have worked as a percussionist in an orchestra or band. Testimonials will tell you what other students think of that teacher and help you make your choice.The level of experience will, of course, affect the price of the drum lesson.Other portals for finding drum teachers are:DrumteachersDrummingteacherAnother possibility is to go over to a local music college and look at their corkboard or put up a flyer yourself advertising for a teacher.While music students don’t have a lot of experience, they have the advantage of still studying themselves, so they have a better understanding of the learning process and the frustration inherent in it. They might be better motivated to teach you drum fills and the rudiments of tuning your instruments than someone who has been doing it for over twenty years.Now learn all you need to know before taking drum lessons...

What is a Rational Expression

What is a Rational Expression A rational expression is an expression which is written in the form of p/q where p and q are any polynomial expressions except q 0. Hence a rational expression has a numerator and a denominator and the expression in the denominator should not be equal to 0 because then the expression becomes undefined. Rational expressions are very commonly used in math and they can be added, subtracted, multiplied and divided and these expressions can be simplified or factored according to the given question as well. Example 1: Simplify the given rational expression, (4x2)/ (2x) * (3x/5). Given rational expression: (4x2/2x) * (3x/5) Now in order to multiply the given two rational expressions, we multiply the expressions in the numerators together and the expressions in the denominators together. This gives: (4x2 * 3x)/ (2x * 5) = 12x3/ 10x. Now we can simplify the above expression by dividing the numerator and the denominator with their common factor. The common factor of 12 and 10 is 2 and for x3 and x is x. Hence we get: 6x2/5. Example 2: Simplify the given rational expression, (x2 16)/ (x 4). Given rational expression: (x2 16)/ (x 4) In order to simplify the above expression, we can factor the numerator. According to the algebraic formula: a2 b2 = (a+ b) (a b) Now, we can write x2 16 as x2 42. Applying the above formula we get, x2 42 = (x + 4) (x 4) Now (x2 16)/ (x 4) = (x+ 4) (x- 4)/ (x- 4). Cancelling (x- 4) up and down, we get - (x+ 4) Therefore, (x2 16)/ (x 4) = (x+ 4)

Thursday, March 5, 2020

5 Must-Do Steps Before Submitting Your College Application

5 Must-Do Steps Before Submitting Your College Application The following piece was written by Linda Abraham. Linda has been featured in ourAdmissions Expert seriesand is the President and Founder of Accepted.com. You think youre ready to submit your college application? WAIT dont do it! Or at least, not yet. Before you hit Submit, make sure you follow these important steps: 1. Clean up your social media act Many adcom will not just review your application, but will spend some time Googling you as well, checking your profiles on social media sites and making sure that they like what they see. Please be responsible and take down anything that makes you look bad you know what Im talking about. Note: Having a social media presence isnt a bad thing; in fact, clean, well-written, and well-maintained social profiles can show the adcom that youre tech savvy, creative, and with it. 2.Check that your application creates a holistic picture of you Your resume, recommendations, transcript, and essays should all work together to create a holistic picture of your qualifications, skills, experience, interests, and goals. You are a multi-faceted person with lots to offer dont make the mistake of having overlapping, repetitious info in your application. Instead, take advantage of the space you have to present as many, varied aspects of who you are as possible. 3. Make sure that youve expressed why youre a good candidate for this program You may be the Einstein of our generation, but if you havent expressed your unique fit with your target program, then you could still hit the chopping block, despite your blinding brilliance. 4.Proofread everything Spend a significant amount of time editing your essays and resume, as well as the boxes and forms on the application itself. A sloppy application shows that youre a sloppy person. 5.Follow up with your recommenders Your application may be complete on your end, but if your recommenders have lost your recommendation in the mountain of papers on their desks, then you may as well consider yourself doomed. Follow up with each and every one of your recommenders to make sure that your recommendation has been submitted by the deadline. VisitAccepted.comor find them onFacebookandTwitter. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.

Heart Math Tutoring receives $1,250,000 from Albemarle Foundation and Bank of America - Heart Math Tutoring

Heart Math Tutoring receives $1,250,000 from Albemarle Foundation and Bank of America - Heart Math Tutoring Heart Math Tutoring receives $1,250,000 from Albemarle Foundation and Bank of America Heart Math Tutoring receives $1,250,000 from Albemarle Foundation and Bank of America October 25, 2018 Albemarle Corporation and Bank of America recently announced a $20 million investment in Charlotte-area nonprofits to drive local economic mobility! The companies worked together to select Charlotte nonprofits that will receive funding allocated over the next five years. Each nonprofit focuses on at least one of three key areas:early child care and education; college and career readiness; and family and child stability. These areas were identified as factors of economic mobility in a report by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Opportunity Task Force, which was formed in response to the 2014 Harvard/UC-Berkeley study that ranked Charlotte 50th among 50 large metropolitan areas for upward mobility. “Our priority is to work closely with the many great resources, task forces and organizations in Charlotte that have paved the way for us to power the potential of our community,” said Sandra Holub, Executive Director of the Albemarle Foundation. “We hope this investment sets a tone for both legacy organizations and those new to Charlotte, to step up however they can, with dollars, sweat equity or social capital, and continue the momentum to address economic mobility in Charlotte.” Heart Tutoring will receive $1,250,000 over five years to accelerate program impact and sustainability. Albemarle Foundation and Bank of America will sponsor tutoring for ~200-250 students across 4-5 school sites per year and support Heart Tutorings growth from 22 current school partners to 35. Students who are performing 2-3 years below grade level in elementary math build skills and confidence needed for long-term success. Bank of America’s gift aligns with the company’s significant volunteer support, as almost 100 Bank of America employees served as volunteer tutors with Heart in the most recent school year. “This is incredible validation of the community investment and outcomes to date, and we are inspired by this opportunity for expanded impact over the next five years,” says Emily Elliott, executive director of Heart Math Tutoring. “I am grateful for our students, volunteers, donors, staff, and school partners who will remain dedicated to the hard work of opening doors where children are currently being left behind.” Thank you so much for making the program possible in schools, Albemarle and Bank of America! Read more in the news: https://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/news/2018/09/27/bank-of-america-albemarle-corpcommit-20m-to.html https://www.albemarle.com/news/bank-of-america-and-albemarle-corporation-announce-20-million-investment-in-driving-economic-mobility-in-charlotte https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/business/article219049600.html

5 Reasons to take English Classes via Skype

5 Reasons to take English Classes via Skype Are you wondering whether you should take English classes on line via Skype? Its a relatively new new way of learning English, so you may have some doubts. Here are 5 good reasons to try it.5. No traffic. If you live in São Paulo, Madrid, Mexico City, Moscow, Buenos Aires or any of the worlds big cities, you know that traffic can be a nightmare. But if you take your English classes by Skype, you can learn from your home, your office, or even by connecting to Skype with a smartphone during your commute! Its one less trip youll have to make.4. Take it easy! Tired after a long day of work? Come to English class in your pajamas! We wont care. In fact, if you want, you can leave your video off during class. Our teachers will always use their video (so we usually dont wear pajamas) but you can relax.3. Native Speakers. Native English speakers may be difficult to find in your country/city, but we have them on Skype. Learn how to speak English the way real English speakers do, and be prepar ed for you next job interview, vacation or meeting.2. One on one learning. You can take classes with just you and and one native English speaker. Its the fastest, most efficient way to learn!1. First class is free. You can take a 30-minute free trial class with no obligation to learn about all the great advantages of this new way of studying English. Contact us to arrange a first class.What are your reasons for taking Skype English classes? Let us know in comments below. Clever Learn3232 This sounds like a very neat and very helpful blog! Very informative and had such a wonderful entry.

Guest Tips How to Make Your Sleep Routine Smarter for Your Child

Guest Tips How to Make Your Sleep Routine Smarter for Your Child Guest Tips: How to Make Your Sleep Routine Smarter for Your Child The following post was written  by  Alanna McGinn, Certified Infant and Toddler Sleep Consultant and Founder of  Good Night Sleep Site  â€" a Global Pediatric and Family Sleep Team. During the school year, heading to bed at a decent time and getting a good night’s sleep is important for children. A well-rested child will display better cognitive ability, a more pleasant mood and temperament, and a stronger immune system. While an important component of proper sleep hygiene is to follow a consistent and soothing routine,  where you can  bond and meet your child’s attachment needs, it can also be a time to tie in some reading and comprehension. Ways to Make Bedtime Smarter for Kids Bedtime stories don’t always have to happen in their bed. What if you carved out a special bedtime nook in their room where together you can curl up and get caught up about your day, or even practice some schoolwork? What a great idea to make a special place in their room for that quality time. But what can you include in that special bedtime nook? I created this fun magnetic board for my daughter’s room. She and I have a blast with it and it was super easy and affordable to make. Head over to the dollar store and buy a large size cookie sheet. Personalize it with duct tape and now your child has their own magnetic board for reading flash cards and alphabet magnets. Don’t forget that bedtime doesn’t just have to be a time for reading comprehension but it can also include math as well! Buy a plain canvas and collect different felt story boards available at most dollar and craft stores. Using foam letters start off the story yourself and then let your child’s imagination run wild. Every night they can create their own story or add on different chapters. A great idea for some imaginative play and a great form of “output” right before bed. And don’t forget no nook is complete without a favorite lovey or blanket that they can snuggle down with as well. We know that sleep is important during the school year and we know that a proper bedtime routine is always the best route to take to have a good night’s sleep, but remember your routine can be whatever you and your child make it into. Be together and be creative and get ready for some healthy post- [Holiday] (and smarter) Zzz’s. Kumon not only helps children strengthen their math and reading skills, it also helps them build healthy routines in and out of school. Find out more by  scheduling a  parent orientation session  today!   You might also be interested in: 6 Oral Reading Tips for Parents 6 Practical Tips for Summer Parenting Spark a Love for Literature with These  Read-Aloud  Tips 4 Simple Tips for Setting Goals with Your Child in the New Year Guest Tips How to Make Your Sleep Routine Smarter for Your Child Guest Tips: How to Make Your Sleep Routine Smarter for Your Child The following post was written  by  Alanna McGinn, Certified Infant and Toddler Sleep Consultant and Founder of  Good Night Sleep Site  â€" a Global Pediatric and Family Sleep Team. During the school year, heading to bed at a decent time and getting a good night’s sleep is important for children. A well-rested child will display better cognitive ability, a more pleasant mood and temperament, and a stronger immune system. While an important component of proper sleep hygiene is to follow a consistent and soothing routine,  where you can  bond and meet your child’s attachment needs, it can also be a time to tie in some reading and comprehension. Ways to Make Bedtime Smarter for Kids Bedtime stories don’t always have to happen in their bed. What if you carved out a special bedtime nook in their room where together you can curl up and get caught up about your day, or even practice some schoolwork? What a great idea to make a special place in their room for that quality time. But what can you include in that special bedtime nook? I created this fun magnetic board for my daughter’s room. She and I have a blast with it and it was super easy and affordable to make. Head over to the dollar store and buy a large size cookie sheet. Personalize it with duct tape and now your child has their own magnetic board for reading flash cards and alphabet magnets. Don’t forget that bedtime doesn’t just have to be a time for reading comprehension but it can also include math as well! Buy a plain canvas and collect different felt story boards available at most dollar and craft stores. Using foam letters start off the story yourself and then let your child’s imagination run wild. Every night they can create their own story or add on different chapters. A great idea for some imaginative play and a great form of “output” right before bed. And don’t forget no nook is complete without a favorite lovey or blanket that they can snuggle down with as well. We know that sleep is important during the school year and we know that a proper bedtime routine is always the best route to take to have a good night’s sleep, but remember your routine can be whatever you and your child make it into. Be together and be creative and get ready for some healthy post- [Holiday] (and smarter) Zzz’s. Kumon not only helps children strengthen their math and reading skills, it also helps them build healthy routines in and out of school. Find out more by  scheduling a  parent orientation session  today!   You might also be interested in: 6 Oral Reading Tips for Parents 6 Practical Tips for Summer Parenting Spark a Love for Literature with These  Read-Aloud  Tips 4 Simple Tips for Setting Goals with Your Child in the New Year

Talk Like a Native with These 15 Italki Alternatives for Language Learning

Talk Like a Native with These 15 Italki Alternatives for Language Learning Talk Like a Native with These 15 Italki Alternatives for Language Learning Italki may be the talk of the town among anyone looking for an  online language tutor or a  conversation exchange partner.But in spite of its many benefits, it isnt the only choice on the market.In fact, there are 15 great alternatives you can use if italki isnt quite what youre looking for.If you havent heard of italki, you might be missing out. Italki provides one-on-one lessons from native speakers that you can use to improve your skills.If you dont feel you need a formal lesson, italki can also connect you with a native speaker for a free conversation exchange so you can practice what youve learned.Regardless of the path you take, italki presents you with customizable, flexible learning options to teach you nearly any language you may want to learn.However, if youre not on-board with italki, not all is lost! These 15 alternatives can provide you with many of the benefits italki offers. Why Use an Italki Alternative?First, using an italki alternative can help you find a language tutor or language exchange partner. Maybe you havent clicked with any of the tutors or language exchange partners youve found on italki. Or maybe you just want to make sure that whatever tutor or language exchange partner you find is the best available anywhere. Regardless of your reason, using an italki alternative can help you find the right tutor or language exchange partner for you.Using an italki alternative can also provide you with something different than what italki offers. Each alternative provides slightly different features, so you might find an interface, tools or other options you prefer with an italki alternative.Finally, you can never have too much language practice. Thats a fact. Even if you still want to use italki, it doesnt mean you cant also use a few alternatives to augment your language education. The more the merrier!How to Select the Right Italki Alternative for YouLook for sources that provide information that matters to you.When youre in the market for a tutor or language exchange partner, most resources you encounter will provide some information on your potential match. For instance, some sources may offer your potential matchs photo, academic credentials, age, location and/or interests.However, the information provided varies between platforms. When selecting an alternative, consider what information matters to you to ensure you find a resource that provides that information.Ensure the resource you use offers the services you want.Services vary across these resources. Some may offer video lessons, others feature web chat and others may provide a written pen pal experience. If you have a specific idea of what sort of service you prefer, pay careful attention to what the resource provides to ensure it matches your preferences.Pay attention to how widely offered your target language is on the platform.Some platforms have more members than others, and the number of speakers of specific languages can vary wildly.You can often determin e how many people speak your target language on a platform simply by searching for a tutor or conversation partner who speaks that language. If your search doesnt yield many results, you may be better off using a different alternative.Look at the format and offerings of each platform.Some platforms provide supportive resources, like text translation or spell check, to make your conversations a little easier. Looking at the format and offerings of each platform can help you see additional opportunities and tools that might make you prefer one option over another.Talk Like a Native with These 15 Italki Alternatives for Language LearningItalki includes three great features for language learners: You can listen to native speakers, find a language tutor/teacher and match with a language exchange partner.Weve identified 15 resources that each include at least one of these features. Happy language learning!Listening to Native SpeakersOne key element of italki services is interacting with n ative speakers. However, not all language learners are comfortable speaking just yet.Luckily, that doesnt mean you have to miss out on the benefits of listening to native speakers. There are some great options for listening to native speakers without the intimidation factor of speaking to them.FluentUAvailable: iOS | AndroidFluentU gives you the opportunity to listen to a wide array of native speakers.  FluentU takes real-world videosâ€"like music videos, movie trailers, news and inspiring talksâ€"and turns them into personalized language learning lessons.With FluentU, you learn real languagesâ€"the same way that natives  speak them. FluentU has a wide variety of videos, like movie trailers, funny commercials and web series, as you can see here:FluentU App Browse ScreenFluentU has interactive captions that let you tap on any word to see an image, definition, audio and useful examples. Now native language content is within reach with interactive transcripts.Didnt catch something? Go back and listen again. Missed a word? Hover your mouse over the subtitles to instantly view definitions.FluentU Videos with Interactive CaptionsUnder the Vocab and Dialogue tabs, youll find words and phrases from the video and a complete interactive transcript.Interactive Transcripts on FluentUYou can learn all the vocabulary in any video with FluentUs Quiz Mode. Swipe left or right to see  more examples for the word you’re learning.FluentU Has Quizzes for Every VideoLike italki, FluentU is also flexible. You choose what you watch, when you watch it and how much you watch. Meanwhile, FluentUs algorithm tracks your learning to present you with questions that build on what youve already learned. Because of this flexibility, FluentU is appropriate for any level of language learner.FluentU also ticks off the convenient box. You can use FluentU online, download the the iOS app or try the Android app.YouTubeAvailable: iOS | AndroidYouTube may be your favorite way to kill a few minutes w ith fun videos youll want to share with your friends, but it can also be your ticket to language learning success.People around the world upload videos to YouTube, which means theres authentic content available in virtually any language you can imagine.To find channels in your target language, just search countries where your target language is widely spoken on Socialbakers  to find the most popular channels in that country. The most popular channels usually use the most widely spoken local language, so it isnt hard to find channels that use your target language.However, not all videos offer captioning, so YouTube is often a more appropriate option for more advanced students.Hiring a Teacher/TutorItalki can help you connect with a native speaker to serve as a teacher or tutor. Teachers and tutors can present you with targeted instruction to help you meet your learning goals. You can also find language teachers and tutors through the following services.LangcerStudents can use Langcer to connect with language teachers free of charge. Think of it like a matchmaking service. You can use it to connect with a teacher, but where you go from there is up to you.To select your teacher, you can search by language, country and whether the teacher is a native speaker. Teacher profiles display lots of great information, such as the teachers native language, teaching methods offered (in-person, online, video and/or phone), location and age.If you find a teacher you like, you can message them through the site to learn more. But be warnedâ€"the site hasnt been as active as it used to be in the last couple years, so teachers may or may not still be interested in providing lessons.PreplyAvailable: iOS | AndroidLike italki, you can use Preply online or from the comfort of your favorite device.Preply offers thousands of language tutors, including around 400 tutors for Arabic, 400 for Chinese, 2,600 for English, 300 for French, 200 for German, 300 for Italian, 300 for Japanese, 10 for Korean, 600 for Portuguese, 1,000 for Russian and 800 for Spanish.Rates vary between tutors, so options are available for different budgets.  You can search tutors by price, language, nationality and availability to locate your perfect match.Preply is also flexible. Tutors are available 24/7, so you can schedule lessons that work for you. Lessons are transmitted via video through Preply, so you can access them from whatever location is convenient for you.RypeRype provides one-on-one online language lessons with professional teachers.Lessons are personalized and available 24/7, so they can meet the needs, preferences and goals of most language students.The one caveat is that Rype doesnt offer the broad range of language options that many services provide. Instead, Rype focuses on 10 languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.If youre not sure if private lessons are right for you, you can try Rypes free seven-day trial t o see how you like it.AmazingTalkerWant to make sure your language tutor has been thoroughly vetted? AmazingTalker interviews its tutors and verifies their profiles. The program requires that tutors have teaching experience or teaching certificates and provides its tutors with additional training. Not only that, but youll have access to introduction videos, resumes and student feedback to help you select your ideal tutor.You dont have to have a contract, and lessons are customized for students. This makes AmazingTalker very flexible. You can just take a lesson here and there when theres something in particular you want to work on, or you can take more lessons with long-term goals in sight.AmazingTalker lessons are conducted via Zoom video conferencing, so you can take your lessons via mobile device or computer.Live LinguaProfessional teacher? Check. One-on-one instruction? Check. Customized curriculum? Check.Its hard to go wrong with Live Linguas flexible, personalized lessons. One thing that really sets Live Lingua apart from other services is that you dont even have to select your own instructor, so its perfect for anyone with analysis paralysis.Instead, you share your goals, learning style and educational history. A class coordinator will select a tutor for you, so you dont have to spend hours staring at profiles trying to decide whom to choose.Live Lingua also provides a free one-hour trial lesson to make sure Live Lingua is right for you before you commit.VerblingAvailable: iOS | AndroidVerbling has over 7,500 teachers who provide instruction in more than 50 languages.Verbling offers professional teachers who are native speakers, and lessons are personalized. Lessons are held directly through Verbling (not Skype or Zoom), and the service works in your browser or through your favorite device.On the surface, Verbling may seem a lot like other tutor services, but there are a few things that set it apart. For one thing, Verbling presents you with additional l anguage tools, such as vocabulary review and collaborative textpads. And because learning a language can get lonely, Verbling can also help you connect with a community of other language learners for a little extra moral support.Language ExchangeWhen you participate in a language exchange, you use conversation to improve language skills. Generally, youll partner with a native speaker of your target language. Youll help them learn your language, and theyll help you learn theirs through practice and interaction.TandemAvailable: iOS | AndroidTandem is a lot like italki in that you can engage in conversation exchange or hire a tutor.  With over five million members speaking more than 150 total languages, youre likely to find someone who speaks your language.Tandem connects language learners with native speakers around the world for some great conversation through your smartphone. Not only does Tandem allow video chat, it also offers instant messaging, photo sharing and voice messaging t o give you more ways to connect with your partner.And if youre language skills arent quite up to snuff, dont worry! Tandem features in-app translation and correction to help you along.If you prefer a paid lesson, Tandem also provides one-on-one video tutoring.BilinguaAvailable: iOS | AndroidBilingua offers free audio and video language exchange through your favorite device. You can seek out users who share your interest for a fun and engaging chat.In addition to language exchange, Bilingua provides additional tools to help you perfect your skills. For instance, the apps chatbot can help you learn new words. And if you run out of conversation topics with your language exchange partner, try out a game in which you can earn points and rewards in the app.HelloTalkAvailable: iOS | AndroidWith 10 million members and over 150 supported languages, HelloTalk is a major force in language exchange.HelloTalk provides voice, video and text chat. Not only that, but helpful tools such as translati on aids, pronunciation, corrections and transliterations can help make the language exchange process less nerve-wracking.Plus, you can even post questions to the community to receive a little extra insight from native speakers without even doing a standard language exchange.The MixxerRun by Dickinson College, this free language exchange site connects language learners. You can meet your partner through this site and then use Skype for your language exchange.Ever wish you could have a native speaker correct your written work? The Mixxer offers that, as well.Thousands of users have posted profiles that detail their native languages and what theyre learning. All you have to do is sign up to start looking for your new language exchange partner.My Language ExchangeMy Language Exchange is an online community that hosts three million members from 175 countries who are practicing more than 160 languages.You can use My Language Exchanges member search tool to find partners based on native la nguage, language theyre practicing, country, city, age, gender and more.Once youve found your perfect partner, My Language Exchange can hook you up with lesson plans, text chat rooms, links to free voice chat rooms, hangman word games and so much more. With so many resources, your language exchange never has to have a dull moment!Polyglot ClubAll these online options are great, but what if you want to meet up for a language exchange in real life? Thats where Polyglot Club comes in.Polyglot Club provides online chatting, a search feature to help you find friends and the option to post text for native speakers to correct. However, Polyglot Club also offers a feature rarely seen on conversation exchange websites: in-person interaction.Polyglot Club even hosts meetings around the world where you can connect with other language aficionados and maybe find your new language exchange bestie. Additionally, because you can filter results by city when searching for new friends, you might be ab le to find someone near you who wants to meet up.As always, be careful when meeting people in person. Never share your home address, and be sure to meet in public places.HiNativeAvailable: iOS | AndroidOkay, so HiNative isnt quite a language exchange program. But if your reason for wanting to interact with native speakers is to ask them your most pressing language questions, HiNative is a quick, easy solution.HiNative is a question and answer platform that allows you to ask native speakers questions about pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary and any other topic that comes up as you study your target language. You can enter your question as text and/or upload audio and photos for your question, allowing you to ask about your pronunciation or a certain word you saw and couldnt figure out.Maybe italki isnt up your alley. Or maybe you simply want more great resources to add to your learning routine.Regardless of your need for choices, these 15 italki alternatives can provide you with terr ific, interactive language learning!