Working With Parents and Keeping Students Safe Online
Tutoring minors online comes with extra responsibility. Clear communication with parents and sensible safety practices protect students and protect you.
Communicate with parents
- Agree on goals and expectations at the start, including how progress will be shared.
- Send a short summary after each session or every few sessions: what you covered, how it went, and what to practice.
- Raise concerns early and factually, such as missed homework or difficulty with a topic.
- Make sure parents know your policies on scheduling, payment and cancellations.
Professional boundaries
- Communicate with minors through channels parents know about and approve, and copy parents on scheduling messages.
- Keep conversations focused on learning.
- Do not connect with student minors on personal social media.
- Keep sessions in an appropriate setting on your side: a tidy, neutral background and appropriate dress.
Privacy and recordings
- Only record sessions with clear permission from parents, and explain why and how long recordings are kept.
- Store student work and contact details securely and delete them when no longer needed.
- Do not share student work, names or photos publicly without written permission.
Safe technology use
- Use meeting links with passwords or waiting rooms.
- Do not share your screen with private tabs or notifications showing.
- Keep your software up to date.
If something concerns you
If a student tells you something that suggests they may be at risk of harm, take it seriously. Learn the reporting rules that apply to you where you live, and contact the appropriate authorities if needed. In an emergency, contact emergency services.
Background checks
Some families, schools and platforms ask tutors for a background check. Having one available can reassure parents. Requirements vary by location and platform.
The short version
Keep parents informed, communicate through approved channels, protect student privacy, use secure meeting settings, and know what to do if you have a safety concern.