Strong tutor-student relationships create a foundation for meaningful learning. Taking just a few minutes each session to engage in casual, friendly conversation helps your student feel seen, supported, and more willing to participate academically.
Not sure where to start? Use this guide to spark conversations and build connection.
Conversation Starters
Here are some fun and engaging topics you can talk about with your tutee:
Sports – Ask about their favorite teams, sports they play, or any games they've watched recently
Games – Video games, board games, or playground favorites
TV Shows & Movies – What they’re currently watching or old favorites
Hobbies – Art, baking, dancing, music, or anything creative they enjoy
Pets – Ask about any animals they have or wish they had
Food – Favorite meals, snacks, or go-to restaurants
Family – Favorite family traditions, memories, or how things are going at home
Weekend – What they did recently or what they’re looking forward to
Goals & Emotions – What they want to achieve or how they’re feeling emotionally or academically
Why It Matters
Taking time to connect:
Builds trust and rapport
Increases engagement during lessons
Helps students feel valued and heard
Makes tutoring more fun and meaningful for both of you
You don’t need to cover every topic — pick what feels natural and relevant based on your tutee’s interests and comfort level.
Final Tip
Most of all, talk about something you and your tutee can build a relationship around. Shared interests lead to better connection and stronger learning outcomes.
If you’d like more ideas or support in building a strong tutor-student relationship, reach out to tutorsupport@stepuptutoring.org.
Flyer created by Salma Kidwai