“Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try.”
— John F. Kennedy
Math Tutoring
Where math becomes doable—and even fun.
Hi, I’m Cate, a certified teacher and math tutor who helps elementary kids build real confidence by mastering the foundations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions.
If your child is struggling, shutting down during homework, or saying things like “I’m just not good at math,” you’re in the right place. I work with students to rebuild those skills from the ground up—without stress, shame, or rushing. Just steady, personalized progress and lots of encouragement.
My students go from hating math to feeling like they’ve got this.
What makes my approach different:
I focus on skills, not shortcuts—your child will actually understand what they’re doing.
I meet kids where they’re at, with patient, one-on-one support.
I believe there are many ways to get to the right answer, and I help kids discover the ones that work for them.
I follow the Colorado grade-level standards and bring over a decade of classroom insight.
I make math feel doable, even fun—with games, real-life connections, and lots of positive feedback.
From “I hate math” to “Math is my favorite!” Don’t just take my word for it—read what parents are saying »
Ready to help your child feel confident in math?
About me
Hi, I’m Cate!
math tutor, world traveler, and confidence-builder.
I help elementary kids build strong, lasting math skills so they can move forward with real understanding—not just disconnected, memorized steps.
While I began as a classroom teacher, my journey has taken me far beyond a traditional setting. I’ve taught students from around the world in Kosova, China, and South Africa—and I bring that global perspective, flexibility, and curiosity to every tutoring session.
Today, I work with kids 1:1 to strengthen their foundation in math: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions. My sessions are focused, engaging, and tailored to the way your child thinks—I know how to meet kids where they’re at and build up their skills one solid block at a time.
Want to know if we’re a good fit?
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There’s no one right way to solve a math problem—and when kids realize that, it changes everything. They feel more confident exploring strategies that work for them and open to learning more efficient, effective approaches along the way.
Struggling in math doesn’t mean a child isn’t smart—it just means they need the right kind of support. And if they’re spending time learning, it should be fun and engaging, not more of what hasn’t worked before.
Real confidence comes from understanding, not memorization. We take the pressure off and make space for real learning—through patient guidance, clear explanations, and celebration of small wins.
Math should feel doable—and even fun. It’s not about rushing through steps, but about seeing patterns, asking questions, and developing real number sense.
Working 1:1 lets me notice how your child is seeing numbers, spot misconceptions early, and gently shift their thinking. That kind of individualized attention creates lasting progress.
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I’m calm, curious, and endlessly patient.
I arrive with a box of games, activities, and hands-on tools—my students call it the “fun box” or “box of goodies.” It helps make learning concrete, not abstract.
I use visuals, real-world examples, and strategies tailored to how your child learns best.
I tune in closely to where a student is getting stuck and help them discover their next move—not just the “right” answer. It’s about building their thinking, so they can make connections and apply their learning.
I guide students toward their own understanding by balancing mathematical thinking that lasts with quick wins to use today—giving them tools that will support them down the road and strategies they can use right now.
Along the way, students begin to shift how they feel about math. I often hear things like:
“This makes sense now.”
“Math is my favorite subject now.”
These aren’t rare moments. They're real ones. Hear more from the families I work with »
Tutoring Services
Focused, encouraging math support for Grades 1–5
Whether your child is feeling stuck, unsure, or ready to take their skills further, tutoring helps them build the confidence and understanding they need to move forward. I support students in developing strong foundations in math—not just to pass the next test, but to truly understand how numbers work.
I offer one-on-one tutoring for students in Grades 1–5 in Longmont, Lafayette & Boulder, CO. We meet at the library in a calm, kid-friendly space designed for focus, connection, and progress.
Confidence Through Understanding
Kids don’t need more worksheets—they need tools to help them think. My tutoring is grounded in mastery over memorization and help students build strong mental strategies and real number sense with lots of space for curiosity, mistakes, and growth.
A typical session might include:
Math games and puzzles for low-pressure practice and repetition to help learning stick
Visual tools and hands-on activities from my “box of goodies” to build understanding
Real-world examples to make math meaningful
Math talks to notice patterns and explore thinking
Encouragement, small wins, and celebrations along the way
Want to know more about my style and values? Learn about my approach »
Parent Praise
“We love Cate!” — and we hear it from parents and kids alike.
I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all tutoring—and it shows. Here’s what parents (and kids!) are saying about the confidence and understanding that comes from this kind of support.
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When we started tutoring, it's safe to say [student] strongly disliked math. Now? Math is her favorite subject. Cate has taught her so many strategies and helped build her confidence—we’re so lucky to have found her.
~ Kristen P, parent to 3rd grader
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Cate is AWESOME!!!!!!!! [Student] LOOOVES her. I think we found a good fit. [Student] didn't want to leave and kept looking at the clock and saying things like "darn I only have 10 minutes left. I could not be happier.
~ Stacee, parent to 4th grader
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We’ve had such a great experience with Cate! My daughter’s math skills have improved so much. Cate makes it fun and is so good at coming up with many ways of teaching a given concept. So glad we found Cate!
~ Charles P, parent of 5th grader
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Thank you so much for everything you're doing for [student]. I'm really seeing his confidence boosted and he really enjoys his time with you.
~ Kristen R, parent of 4th grader
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This year, when I went into tutoring, I was kind of scared, but then you welcomed me—and then I was not so scared anymore… I boosted my iReady score and aced my last five tests. You are the best tutor ever.
~ Student CR, 4-5th grade student
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What I like about tutoring is playing games that help me remember my facts better. Cate has taught me a lot!
~ Student KB, 5th grade student
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Tutoring is fun and we always play games—multiplication squares are my favorite! It’s helped me count, multiply, and solve problems in different ways. My dad said I wasn’t very caught up, but now I am!
~Student KP, 3-5th grade student
Curious what this could look like for your child?
Let’s talk »
Tutoring Options + Packages
Getting Started: First Session (90 Minutes)
Our first session is always 90 minutes so we can take our time. Here’s what’s included:
We’ll talk through your goals and your child’s experience with math
I’ll get to know your child through games, questions, and informal assessments
Some math time to start working where they are
For homeschool families: a short debrief and ideas for practice in between sessions
Note: this session may not last the full 90 minutes, I reserve the time to ensure we’re not rushed.
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Summary:
Personalized math support focused on your child’s specific needs and learning style.Who it’s for:
Kids in Grades 1–5 who need focused attention to build skills, confidence, and understanding.Pricing:
60-minute session: $70
Set of 4: $260 (to be used within 2 months)
Think this might be a fit? Let’s talk »
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Summary:
A 75-minute session that includes 60 minutes with your child and a 15-minute parent check-in to talk through progress and at-home practice.Who it’s for:
Homeschool families who want collaborative support between tutor, child, and parent.Pricing:
75-minute session: $70
Set of 4: $260 (to be used within 2 months)
Think this might be a fit? Let’s talk »
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Summary:
Split a 90-minute session between two kids.Who it’s for:
Siblings who want personalized back-to-back time within a shared session.Friends and homeschool pods working on the same thing may be a better fit for a small group session.
Pricing:
90-minute session: $105
Set of 4: $400 (to be used within 2 months)
Think this might be a fit? Let’s talk »
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Summary:
Math Labs are sessions for 4–6 kids focused on one concept. Sessions include games, hands-on activities, and guided discussion to deepen understanding and learn from each other. Available as 4+ week series upon request.Who it’s for:
Homeschool pods or friend groups ready to explore a topic together in a collaborative setting with peers at a similar level. Best for kids who benefit from a mix of social learning and structured guidance.Topics Include:
How Big Is That Number? Beginning number sense and early addition and subtraction
Base Ten Builders Place value and addition for early elementary students
Foundations in Fractions Visual models + number sense to build fraction fluency
Multiplication Mastery Games, strategies, and math fact fluency without flashcards
Power Up Your Place Value Place value for large numbers and working with exponent numbers
Multiply with Confidence Clear, empowering multi-digit multiplication strategies
Fraction Focus Adding and subtracting with fractions
Divide & Conquer Long division that makes sense (and sticks!)
I am happy to tailor sessions to your group’s goals.
Pricing:
Varies based on group size and length of the series. Contact me to learn more »
Let’s Get Started
Let’s build your child’s confidence in math.
Whether you're ready to book or just want to chat about what might be a good fit, I’d love to hear from you.
FAQ
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It really depends on your child’s goals. Some families come for a few targeted sessions, while others continue throughout the school year for deeper support. I’ll always keep you in the loop on what I’m seeing and what I recommend.
Working toward real understanding is a slower—but more rewarding—way to learn. And that kind of learning takes time.
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Not unless you ask for it!
Many of the games and activities we use in our sessions make great practice tools at home. I’m happy to suggest quick ideas or send materials if you’d like something to try between sessions.
(And no—I won’t send worksheets.)
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Absolutely. You’re welcome to sit in on the first one or two.
Some kids like having that extra support when we’re just getting started. But in my experience, most students relax more and take bigger risks when we’re working one-on-one.
Working at the library makes it easy for parents to be nearby—just out of sight, but within earshot. It’s always great to come a little early to see how we wrap up (and maybe jump into the last round of a game!).
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Yes! I love supporting students who are ready for a challenge and want to go deeper with elementary math concepts.
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That’s more common than you’d think—and actually one of the best reasons to start tutoring.
When kids feel confused or behind, “I hate math” is often code for “I don’t get it yet.”
And honestly? It’s not that surprising. “I’m just not a math person” is everywhere—from classrooms to casual conversations. No judgment, but… how do you feel about math? I used to feel the same way—until I started teaching it. (Okay, stepping off my little soapbox.)
My goal is to help kids build confidence and use what they already know.
In 1:1 sessions, they start to realize they know more than they think, make connections, and rack up small wins… then big ones.
When math starts making sense, it starts feeling better too.
(And yes—“math is my favorite subject now” comes up more than you’d think.)
Still have questions…let’s chat >>
Cate Donald
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All sessions must be paid before the start time.
Payment can be made by Venmo or check (payment details sent when you book).
Bookings are done via email, text, or call—Reach out here »
Want to chat before booking? Book a free intro call »
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Cancellations & Rescheduling: Please give at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. This helps me offer your spot to another student.
Late cancellations or no-shows: Unfortunately, these sessions are charged in full.
Session use: Packages must be used within 2 months of purchase.
Refunds: I don’t offer refunds on sessions, but I’m happy to work with you to reschedule if needed.
Communication: Please respond promptly to scheduling messages to keep things running smoothly.
Want to get started with math tutoring?
Boulder | Longmont | Lafayette
catedonald@gmail.com
720-818-0572