Rooted in Care. Powered by Learning.
At Academic Instinct Tutoring, we combine academic support with emotional intelligence—because we know learning thrives where relationships do.
A Different Kind of Tutoring Company
Academic Instinct Tutoring (AIT) was founded with one powerful belief: students learn best when their minds and hearts are supported together. We help K–12 students succeed academically while nurturing emotional resilience, confidence, and a genuine love for learning.
We’re more than just tutors—we’re educators with purpose. Our team is made up of passionate instructors who are committed to building trust, encouraging growth, and providing every student with the tools they need to thrive. Our instruction is not only academically strong but also neuroscience-informed—grounded in how the brain learns, focuses, and regulates emotion.
Through this whole-child approach, we support the development of both cognitive and emotional skills that students need for long-term success. Whether a child is working on early literacy, executive functioning, or advanced coursework, our goal is the same: to make learning feel personal, meaningful, and fun.
From online one-on-one tutoring for families to on-site enrichment and intervention programs for schools and nonprofits, AIT brings neuroscience-informed learning and social-emotional growth into every session—meeting each child exactly where they are, and helping them grow from there.
Meet Our Founder
Academic Instinct Tutoring began as a deeply personal calling for Arima Martinez, an educator who saw a gap in how students were being supported—not just academically, but emotionally. After years of working with children across different ages and learning needs, she felt led to create something different: a tutoring experience rooted in connection, care, and purpose.
Today, Arima is earning her PhD in Developmental Psychology, where she blends educational research with neuroscience-informed practices to lead a company that puts the whole child first. Her work is guided by an understanding of how the brain develops, how emotions impact learning, and how personalized support helps students regulate, engage, and succeed.
From helping early readers build confidence to supporting high schoolers with learning challenges, Arima brings a calm, intentional approach to education—one that reflects her deep belief in each child's potential.
Outside of AIT, Arima leads a children’s ministry, is a proud wife and dog mom to Charley, and authored Raising Emotionally Intelligent Kids, a parent guide to fostering SEL at home. Guided by faith and fueled by purpose, her mission is clear: to help students feel seen, supported, and ready to thrive—academically and beyond.
Our Core Values
Personalization Over Standardization
Every child is unique—and so is our approach. We tailor every session to fit each learner’s needs, strengths, and learning style.
Access and Equity in Education
We serve students of all backgrounds, prioritizing culturally responsive teaching and inclusive support.
Empowerment Through Learning
Our goal is confidence, not just comprehension. We build knowledge and belief.
Academic Excellence with Empathy
We push students toward success with both high expectations and high compassion.
Integrity in Relationships
We partner with families, schools, and communities based on trust, honesty, and shared purpose.
Where Learning Comes Alive
AIT has helped hundreds of students grow—academically and emotionally. From Zoom calls that turn into breakthroughs to classrooms buzzing with hands-on STEAM builds, we make learning experiences that stick.
