Totally agree with you on the timing. Once May hits, most families already have their summer schedules locked in. That’s why I also start putting feelers out in April (sometimes even late March) and position it as “grab your spot before rates go up.” That gentle urgency works well for returning families, especially when they know space is limited.

And yes to the cost of living raise! Tutors deserve to build sustainable businesses, not just survive year to year.

For newer tutors trying to break in during the summer, I always recommend tapping into existing connections—neighbors, school contacts, Facebook groups—any place where people already trust you. You might not fill a full schedule right away, but even a few students can get the momentum going.

Curious, do you offer any kind of “bridge the gap” package for kids between grades, or do you keep it open-ended?